Hey guys! Thinking about getting a Skoda Kodiaq 7 seater? You've come to the right place. In this comprehensive review, we're diving deep into the 2021 model to help you decide if it's the right family SUV for you. We'll cover everything from its spaciousness and practicality to its performance and tech features. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What Makes the Skoda Kodiaq a Great 7-Seater?

The Skoda Kodiaq has carved out a niche for itself as a practical and affordable 7-seater SUV. It's not just about cramming extra seats into a standard SUV; Skoda has put thought into making the Kodiaq genuinely family-friendly. Let's break down some key areas:

Space and Practicality

The Kodiaq's biggest selling point is undoubtedly its space. With all seven seats in place, boot space is limited, but fold the third row down and you've got a cavernous area for luggage, groceries, or even camping gear. The second row also slides and reclines, allowing you to adjust legroom for passengers in both the second and third rows. This flexibility is a massive plus for families with growing kids or those who frequently travel with adults in the back. Storage is also well thought out, with plenty of cubbies, door pockets, and even an umbrella holder in the front doors – a classic Skoda touch! The Kodiaq provides generous headroom and legroom for all passengers, making long journeys comfortable. The seats are supportive, and the ride quality is generally smooth, absorbing bumps and potholes with ease. This is crucial for minimizing fatigue on those long family road trips. Additionally, the wide-opening doors make getting in and out of the Kodiaq easy, especially helpful when dealing with child seats or less mobile passengers. Overall, the Kodiaq’s interior is designed with practicality in mind, making it a great choice for families who need a versatile and spacious vehicle.

Interior and Features

The interior design is clean and functional, with a focus on durability. While it might not be the most luxurious cabin in its class, the materials feel solid and well-assembled. The infotainment system is easy to use, with a responsive touchscreen and logical menu layout. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, so you can easily connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. Higher trim levels add features like a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, and a premium sound system. These upgrades enhance the overall experience and make the Kodiaq feel more upmarket. The driving position is excellent, with good visibility all around. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long journeys. The dashboard layout is straightforward, with all the essential controls within easy reach. Overall, the Kodiaq's interior is a pleasant and practical space to spend time, with a focus on functionality and ease of use. The infotainment system offers a range of features, including navigation, media playback, and vehicle settings. The system is intuitive and responsive, making it easy to use while driving. The Kodiaq also offers a range of driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These features enhance safety and make driving easier, especially on long journeys.

Performance and Handling

The Kodiaq offers a range of engine options, including petrol and diesel units. The petrol engines provide good performance for everyday driving, while the diesel engines offer better fuel economy and more torque for towing. The Kodiaq handles well for a large SUV, with responsive steering and minimal body roll. It's not a sports car, but it feels stable and planted on the road. The ride quality is generally good, although it can be a bit firm on rough roads. The Kodiaq is also available with all-wheel drive, which provides extra traction in slippery conditions. This is a useful feature for those who live in areas with snow or ice. The Kodiaq's performance is adequate for most drivers. The engines are smooth and refined, and the gearbox is slick and precise. The Kodiaq is also relatively quiet, with minimal wind and road noise. Overall, the Kodiaq is a competent and capable SUV that is well-suited for family use. The Kodiaq's engine options cater to a range of needs, from fuel-efficient diesels to powerful petrol units. The gearboxes are smooth and responsive, ensuring a pleasant driving experience. The Kodiaq's handling is surprisingly agile for a large SUV, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Digging into the 2021 Model Year

So, what's new and noteworthy about the 2021 Skoda Kodiaq? While it wasn't a complete redesign year, there were some subtle but important updates. Let's highlight a few:

Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency

The 2021 Kodiaq carried over most of the engine options from previous years, but with some refinements to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Depending on your region, you might find petrol engines ranging from 1.5-liter TSI to 2.0-liter TSI, and diesel engines from 2.0-liter TDI. The fuel efficiency of the 2021 Kodiaq is competitive for its class. The petrol engines offer a decent balance of performance and economy, while the diesel engines provide excellent fuel economy, especially on long journeys. The Kodiaq's fuel tank is also a decent size, allowing for a good range between fill-ups. The Kodiaq's engine options are designed to meet the needs of a wide range of drivers. Whether you prioritize performance, fuel economy, or both, there is an engine option that will suit your needs. The Kodiaq's fuel efficiency is also a key selling point, making it an affordable option for families who travel long distances.

Technology and Safety Features

Skoda has always been good at packing in tech, and the 2021 Kodiaq is no exception. Standard features include an infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a suite of safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Higher trim levels add things like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a rearview camera. These technologies enhance safety and convenience, making the Kodiaq a great choice for families. The infotainment system is easy to use and responsive, and the safety features provide peace of mind. The Kodiaq's technology and safety features are constantly being updated, ensuring that it remains competitive in its class. The adaptive cruise control system is particularly useful for long journeys, as it automatically maintains a safe distance from the vehicle in front. The blind-spot monitoring system helps to prevent accidents by alerting the driver to vehicles in their blind spots. The rearview camera makes parking easier and safer, especially in tight spaces.

Trim Levels and Value for Money

The 2021 Kodiaq came in various trim levels, each offering a different combination of features and equipment. The entry-level models offer excellent value for money, with a generous amount of standard equipment. Higher trim levels add luxury features like leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. The Kodiaq's trim levels are designed to cater to a range of budgets and preferences. Whether you are looking for a basic, affordable family car or a luxurious, well-equipped SUV, there is a Kodiaq trim level that will suit your needs. The Kodiaq's value for money is one of its key selling points, making it an attractive option for families who are looking for a spacious and practical SUV without breaking the bank.

Potential Downsides to Consider

No car is perfect, and the Skoda Kodiaq has a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind:

Third-Row Space

While the Kodiaq is a 7-seater, the third row is best suited for children or smaller adults on shorter journeys. Legroom can be tight, and getting in and out can be a bit of a squeeze. If you regularly need to transport adults in the third row, you might want to consider a larger SUV. The third row is relatively small, and legroom is limited. This can be a problem for adults, especially on long journeys. The third row is also difficult to access, especially for older passengers. Overall, the third row is best suited for children or smaller adults on short journeys. The Kodiaq's third-row space is a common complaint among owners. While the Kodiaq is a practical and spacious SUV, the third row is not as spacious as some of its rivals.

Interior Design

As mentioned earlier, the Kodiaq's interior is functional but not particularly exciting. Some rivals offer more stylish and luxurious cabins. If you prioritize interior aesthetics, you might find the Kodiaq's interior a bit bland. The interior design is relatively simple and understated. Some drivers may find it too basic, while others will appreciate its simplicity. The interior is well-built and durable, but it lacks the flair and sophistication of some of its rivals. The Kodiaq's interior design is a matter of personal preference. Some drivers will find it perfectly acceptable, while others will prefer a more stylish and luxurious cabin.

Ride Comfort

While the Kodiaq generally offers a comfortable ride, it can be a bit firm on rough roads, especially with larger alloy wheels. If you live in an area with poor road surfaces, this is something to consider. The ride comfort is generally good, but it can be a bit firm on rough roads. This is especially noticeable with larger alloy wheels. The suspension is designed to provide a balance of comfort and handling, but it can be a bit harsh on bumpy surfaces. The Kodiaq's ride comfort is a subjective issue. Some drivers will find it perfectly acceptable, while others will prefer a more comfortable ride.

The Verdict: Is the 2021 Skoda Kodiaq a Good Buy?

Overall, the 2021 Skoda Kodiaq is a fantastic 7-seater SUV, especially if you prioritize practicality, space, and value for money. It's not the flashiest or most luxurious option, but it's a well-rounded and capable family car that's hard to beat for the price. If you need a versatile SUV that can handle family duties with ease, the Kodiaq is definitely worth considering. It's a practical, spacious, and affordable option that is well-suited for families. The Kodiaq is also well-equipped, with a range of features that enhance safety and convenience. While it may not be the most luxurious or stylish SUV on the market, it offers excellent value for money. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a Kodiaq depends on your individual needs and preferences. However, if you are looking for a practical, spacious, and affordable 7-seater SUV, the Kodiaq is definitely worth considering.