I spoke earlier about the Skoda Kodiaq seven seat SUV – I drove the entry 2.0-
litre 132kW seven-speed automatic Style model at $54,990 drive-away. A very well
packaged and safe all-wheel-drive family SUV, highly equipped for the money but
how does it drive. The four-cylinder turbo petrol engine with a healthy 320Nm of
torque offers a robust performance even with a full load on board. Quick off the
mark especially when you move the gear selector to Sport mode. Consistent with
the Volkswagen Group’s dual clutch transmissions there is some hesitancy when
moving from rest but the transition between ratios is just so smooth. And with
nicely weighted steering, all-wheel drive, and reassuring brakes the Skoda
Kodiaq is a delight to drive, especially on the open road where its settles down
nicely the result of a good level of torque. Surefootedness with all-wheel drive
makes it a very satisfying driver. It does require more expensive 95 octane fuel,
but I achieved a reasonable 8.7L/100 with a combination of suburban and out of
town driving. Kodiaq high points: engine performance, excellent interior
functionality and instrumentation and a high level of spec. although it only gets a
space saver spare wheel. Now with a welcome 7-year/unlimited kilometre
warranty.

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