2022 Skoda Kodiaq facelift review, test drive
The Kodiaq has returned in a brand-new incarnation, and while the alterations may appear tiny, they represent a significant amount of work. It gets some cosmetic changes, new features, and, most crucially, a brand-new engine beneath the hood. The previous Kodiaq was infamous for putting luxury SUV purchasers in a pickle, particularly those trying to break into the premium SUV market. The previous Kodiaq was known for providing incredible value by combining all of the "premiumness" with a little bit more in terms of features and space. So, can this upgrade pass the baton on to the next generation?
2022 Skoda Kodiaq facelift exterior
To the untrained eye, the refreshed Kodiaq isn’t all too different from what it was. The bold front end with the massive road presence has been carried forward, but look closer and you’ll notice the subtle changes. The headlamps are sleeker than before and get new LED DRLs with intricate details dubbed as the ‘eyelashes’. They might not do much in the day, but sure add a bit of flair once the sun goes down. Then is the revised grille, marginally different from the outgoing version, and low down are the new bumpers, which also have subtle revisions.
The shape is comparable to the earlier car on the side, with plenty of creases and body lines that lend dynamism to the design. The alloy wheels, meanwhile, retain the same design as the previous L&K model, but with a dual-tone finish. There have been no changes in terms of dimensions, thus the length and wheelbase remain the same.
The LED taillamps have a new, sharper look at the back, and they now incorporate dynamic turn indicators to add to the high-end vibe. The bumpers, like the front, have been replaced, and that's about it for the external cosmetic modifications on the 2018 Kodiaq.
2022 Skoda Kodiaq facelift interior
When you walk into the new Kodiaq, you're met by a familiar scene. The dashboard layout is similar to that of the previous car, and as a result, there is a tremendous sensation of room. The vibrant upholstery adds to the cabin's premium sense, and the strong construction all around adds to the overall quality. The steering wheel has been changed to a two-spoke design, similar to the one found in the new Octavia. It also has 'Lauren and Klement' badges and is wrapped in leather.
Also new is the digital instrument cluster, which can be customised to display a variety of data and looks great. Then there's the upgraded 8.0-inch touchscreen, which is smooth and quick and now includes built-in navigation as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There's also a wireless charging port on the bottom.
The comfortable seats are reminiscent of the previous Kodiaq, and the sufficient support and padding ensure that long hours will not be an issue. Both front seats have memory functions, and the seat ventilation and heating is a welcome addition to this facelift. In addition, a 12-speaker CANTON audio system replaces the previous 10-speaker setup.
Again, there is no shortage of space in the middle row. Back here, you'll have plenty of legroom and headroom, but if you want to stretch out a little more, you can move the seats farther back and gain a little more space. Then there's the nap package, which includes neck supports in the rear headrests and creates the ideal environment for a nap. Individual climate control is also available for the middle row, and the panoramic sunroof, together with the sunblinds, adds to the cabin's grandeur.
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