Second-gen Skoda Kodiaq unveiled: Here’s what’s new for India

Skoda has unveiled the second-generation Kodiaq for the Indian market, bringing significant updates to the exterior and interior. While the MQB platform remains, the new Kodiaq arrives with revised dimensions, enhanced aerodynamics, a reworked interior, and a familiar petrol-only powertrain.

2025 Skoda Kodiaq exterior

The exterior updates are both visual and functional. The design is refreshed with the second-generation Kodiaq featuring elements of the brand’s Modern Solid design language. It also gets new second-generation LED headlamps that include a welcome animation. The front and rear bumpers have been redesigned to aid aerodynamics, along with a wider and more sculpted apron with an integrated diffuser at the rear. The roof spoiler has been extended as well. Skoda also claims improved aerodynamic performance, with a drag coefficient now rated at 0.282, thanks to reworked airflow management around the body. Design updates include squared-off wheel arches and new aero-optimized wheels. Depending on the variant, the SUV features matte dark chrome detailing (in the L&K trim) or glossy black elements (in the Sportline).

In terms of dimensions, the Kodiaq has grown slightly in length, now measuring 4,758mm, which is 59mm longer than before, while the wheelbase remains unchanged at 2,791mm. The width has reduced marginally by 18mm to 1,864mm, while the height is now 1,659mm, 17mm lower than before.

2025 Skoda Kodiaq interior

Like the exterior, the new Kodiaq adopts a new design language for the interior. It follows a more minimalistic design with the use of soft-touch materials and different textures on the plastics. It gets electronically-adjustable seats while the L&K variant adds heating, ventilation and massage functions. The dashboard features a 10-inch cluster and a new 13-inch infotainment screen, along with one new addition – Skoda Smart Dials. These are physical rotary controls that allow users to manage functions like cabin temperature, seat heating or ventilation, and infotainment settings. Another change is the repositioning of the gear selector to the steering column, freeing up space in the centre console. Charging infrastructure inside the car has also been updated – four USB-C ports with 45W output are available, while Skoda’s ‘Phone Box’ in the centre allows wireless charging of two smartphones simultaneously at 15W and now includes active cooling as well. Rear seat passengers benefit from added convenience features, including tablet holders integrated into the front seatbacks. Also worth noting is that the second row slides on rails to make more space for the third row.

Yes, the seven-seater layout remains, though with some improvements in comfort. Headroom in the third row has increased by 15mm, now offering 920mm. Boot space is rated at 281 litres with all three rows in use, 786 litres with the third row folded, and 1,976 litres with the second row down.

2025 Skoda Kodiaq chassis and powertrain

The India-spec Kodiaq continues to be based on Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform. But unlike before, the new India-spec model will not come with the Dynamic Chassis Control. Mechanically, the Kodiaq retains a 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine for the Indian market. This four-cylinder unit produces 201bhp (up from 187bhp earlier) and 320Nm of peak torque and is mated to a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard. Skoda claims an ARAI-rated fuel efficiency of 14.86kmpl for this configuration. As before, there are no diesel options, but it is said that Skoda is considering bringing the diesel to India.

2025 Skoda Kodiaq price and launch

The 2025 Skoda Kodiaq will come in two trims – Sportline and L&K. Main differences include visual changes on the exterior, different interior trim and upholstery and different seats. The Kodiaq will be assembled in India and should continue its competitive pricing, but with an obvious price increase to accommodate all the upgrades. An official launch will happen in the coming weeks.