Market launch starts in early-2017.
VW-owned Czech carmaker, Skoda, today confirmed that its all-new SUV will be called the Skoda Kodiaq, thus confirming reports and speculations from the past. The Skoda Kodiaq is due to have its unveil in the second half of this year, possibly at the Paris Motor Show, though the market launch is slated for early-2017.
The name, according to Skoda, refers to the Kodiak bear that lives on an island near Alaska, and the way of spelling it is derived from the language of the natives. The carmaker has also released a couple of teaser images of the Kodiaq, whose design it says conveys 'strength and protection'.
Skoda confirms that the Kodiaq will measure 4.70 metres in length. It will be positioned and priced above the Skoda Yeti hence. Underpinning the Kodiaq will be VW's MQB platform which also forms the basis for the VW Tiguan, which is expected to launch in India this year. Needless to say, the Tiguan and the Kodiaq will share plenty of parts and components.
Underneath, the Kodiaq is expected to be powered by four-cylinder TSI and TDI engines paired to manual and DSG boxes. While entry-level variants will be front-wheel drive, a 4x4 system will be on offer on higher models, as confirmed by one of the teaser images.
Also read: Skoda Rapid facelift to launch in August 2016
The Skoda Kodiaq, according to reports, will launch in India towards end-2017.
Rivals: VW Tiguan, Hyundai Santa Fe
Expected Price: INR 28 Lakhs - INR 36 Lakhs (Ex-showroom)
Launch date: Late-2017 (expected in India)