Skoda Kodiaq II (2023-) review: next-generation family SUV

Skoda Kodiaq II from 2023 is a large family crossover for those who genuinely need space, a big trunk, and the option of 7 seats—not just a higher seating position. The second generation has matured inside, gained broader electrification, and kept the key Kodiaq trait: practicality without unnecessary exotic touches.

This model suits families who do a lot of highway driving, often carry child seats, a stroller, suitcases, or sports gear. If your main use case is a tight city, short trips, and parking in courtyards, the Kodiaq II may simply feel too big.

The model and its place in the market

Kodiaq II plays in the midsize family crossover segment. Its strong point isn’t an “off-road” image, but the way it combines a roomy cabin, tall roof, large trunk, and grown-up highway manners. It’s one of those models people choose not for flashiness but for logic: lots of space, a comfortable seating position, and diesel plus all-wheel-drive versions that make sense for long trips.

Who it fits: families with 2–3 kids, those who often travel between cities, and drivers who need one car “for everything.” Who it doesn’t: those who want compact size, low running costs, and a car-like feel in the city.

Generations and model history

The first-generation Kodiaq launched in 2016 and received an update in 2021. The second generation debuted in 2023 and kept the same role, but became slightly larger, more tech-focused, and more electrified.

Engines and transmissions

For the European Kodiaq II there are several real powertrain options, but availability depends on the market. At the launch of the second generation there is no manual gearbox anymore: the core is DSG dual-clutch transmissions, and the choice is between petrol, diesel, mild hybrid, and plug-in hybrid.

In practice it’s simple: the 1.5 TSI is for those who drive calmly and without constant full loads; the 2.0 TDI is the most logical for highway use; the 193 hp diesel and the 2.0 TSI are for those who often travel with a full cabin, tow, or want all-wheel drive. The plug-in hybrid only makes sense where you have regular charging and city driving outweighs highway miles.

Body, dimensions, and chassis

The second generation became longer, but didn’t lose the main thing: the boxy proportions work in favor of the cabin and trunk. This isn’t a “coupe-like” crossover, but an honest family car with sensible body geometry.

The suspension is tuned for everyday family driving, not for sharp maneuvers. On rough roads the Kodiaq doesn’t force you to slow to a crawl, but it also doesn’t become a true off-roader even with all-wheel drive. For a cottage road, snow, gravel, and winter highways, it’s enough.

Interior, comfort, and safety

Inside, the biggest difference is felt in the interface: more digital elements, a different center-console layout, and the gear selector moved to the steering column. At the same time, the Kodiaq hasn’t lost its practicality: plenty of room in the second row, a good seating position, decent visibility, and a trunk that truly works in a family use case.

The third row, if fitted, remains a compromise: for kids or short trips—yes; for adults on a long highway run—not really. Comfort depends a lot on wheels and trim level: with larger rims the ride is harsher. On safety, the suite of driver assists is broad, but the exact equipment should be checked by version.

Everyday use

In daily life, the Kodiaq II is strong where compact crossovers already feel cramped. Child seats, tall passengers, vacation luggage, big grocery runs—this is its normal mode. The weak spot is different: the size. In older courtyards and narrow parking garages it won’t panic, but it also won’t hide its dimensions.

• For the city and a calm family pace, simpler front-wheel-drive versions make more sense.
• For highway use, high annual mileage, and full loads, it’s better to look at the 2.0 TDI.
• For short daily routes with charging, a plug-in hybrid can be a good fit.

In terms of ownership, this is no longer a simple “big wagon on stilts”: more electronics, more expensive tires in higher trims, and all-wheel drive plus DSG require proper servicing—not a random approach.

Strengths and weaknesses

From an owner’s perspective, the main advantage of the Kodiaq II is simple: it rarely forces you to compromise between space, comfort, and highway capability. The main drawback is just as simple: you pay for size, equipment, and more complex tech—both at the checkout and later in service.

Tuning and accessories

For the Kodiaq II, the smartest scenario isn’t decorative tuning, but protecting the interior, trunk, and the body areas that quickly get scratched in family use. If you’re double-checking the generation before buying accessories, keep the review of the second generation Kodiaq handy so you don’t mix products for different bodies.

What to consider for this model

• Rubber floor mats — the first purchase for a car that carries kids, winter slush, and everyday small items.
• Rubber trunk mat — useful if the trunk regularly carries a stroller, scooter, windshield washer fluid canisters, or wet sports gear.

Another practical accessory for this model is protection for the upper edge of the rear bumper: the Kodiaq has a large trunk, so this area often suffers from suitcases and boxes. Random decorative trim pieces without a clear benefit usually add nothing here except extra cost.

Conclusion

Skoda Kodiaq II is a strong family crossover for those who need space, a trunk, calm highway behavior, and a clear choice between petrol, diesel, and electrified versions. It’s not for everyone: in the city it can feel too big, and higher trims can’t be called cheap to run.

If you need one versatile car for daily life, family trips, and long routes, the second Kodiaq looks very convincing. This piece is based on real selection experience, practical use, and real-world scenarios—not abstract impressions.