Enhanced Capabilities with ChatGPT

The integration with ChatGPT allows Laura to provide detailed responses beyond her original programming. Questions outside the typical categories of 'Vehicle,' 'Data,' 'Weather,' 'News,' 'Sports,' or 'Stocks' are directed to Chat Pro, which connects to ChatGPT. Responses sourced from ChatGPT are prefixed with “According to ChatGPT…”.

Also read: Volkswagen Integrates ChatGPT into New Models

Robust Data Security

Škoda ensures robust data protection with this new feature. ChatGPT does not access vehicle data or personal information, processing all requests anonymously and deleting interactions immediately after use. Users can control and deactivate this feature via the vehicle's privacy settings, although it remains always active in the Enyaq models.

Also read: Audi Enhances In-Car Voice Control with ChatGPT Integration

Multilingual Support and Availability

Available in English, Spanish, Czech, and German, this feature requires an active Infotainment Online Package. It is supported on models built on the MEB GP and MQB EVO platforms equipped with the latest infotainment systems.

Škoda's integration of ChatGPT in its vehicles underscores its commitment to enhancing user experience and maintaining data security.

The state-of-the-art technologies allow for the precise and accurate simulation of a wide range of climatic conditions, enabling comprehensive tests that mimic real-world operations. The new Simulation Centre houses a laboratory unique in the Czech Republic and the Volkswagen Group and is among the most modern facilities of its kind in Europe.

Also Read: First Sketches of Skoda Enyaq RS Race Concept

Unique combination of cutting-edge technologies

The new Simulation Centre allows vehicle functionality to be tested under extreme load and virtual calculations to be validated across diverse driving conditions, providing a high degree of test variability in various climatic environments. The facility can sustain temperatures from -7 to +50°C while testing. Moreover, the facility can simulate conditions ranging from 10 to 95% relative humidity (crucial for regions like India), sunlight exposure, and mountain driving at altitudes of up to 5500 metres above sea level. The laboratory also features a modern roller dynamometer for vehicles with outputs up to 300 kW, capable of simulating driving resistances at speeds of up to 265 km/h.

Additionally, it is equipped with sophisticated air ducting with two fans for airflow simulation, an emissions analysis system, and a high-speed charging station for electric vehicles with outputs up to 400 kW. The ability to combine these technologies allows for complex tests that closely replicate real-world operations with high accuracy and precision in results, while the analysis and evaluation of the data are conducted on-site. Performing up to 850 tests annually, the Simulation Centre significantly expands the possibilities for developing new technical solutions.

Also Read: New MySkoda App Combines Several New Functions in One

The construction also includes an expansion of the Emissions Centre in response to current and upcoming legislative requirements, such as the EU7 emission standard. The new measurement booths will primarily be used by the Quality department to ensure that both pre-production and production vehicles comply with these standards.

Further confirmation of technical competence within the Volkswagen Group

The demanding tests at the Simulation Centre, the construction of which began in 2021 with investments of almost €22 million, are conducted per the current and future legislative standards of the European Union, China, India, Brazil, and other regions. The opening of the facility marks another significant step for Škoda in assuming responsibility for the development of Volkswagen’s MQB27 platform, as well as overseeing the overall development of the EA211 series of petrol engines and associated systems such as air intake, exhaust, cooling, and thermal management. Additionally, the Czech car manufacturer handles all related manual transmissions and the application of the DQ200 automatic transmission.

The Technical Development department is continuously looking for new technical staff from a wide range of disciplines to join its ranks.

Production in the Czech Republic

In 2023, Skoda Auto manufactured approximately 556,000 units of the Fabia, Scala, Octavia, Octavia iV, Kamiq, Enyaq and Enyaq Coupé series in Mladá Boleslav. This facility also produced 349,021 MQ100 and MQ200 manual transmissions, 1,736,815 axles and 469,935 EA211 engines, which are also installed in other Volkswagen Group brands’ vehicles. Additionally, the site manufactured 165,606 battery systems for MEB vehicles and 147,625 battery systems for plug-in hybrid models. With a second assembly line commissioned in December 2023, the facility’s capacity is set to increase by 50% to 1,500 units a day.

The Kvasiny plant also contributed significantly, producing a total of 225,000 units of the Karoq, Kodiaq, Superb, and Superb iV models in 2023. Key highlights of the year included the unveiling of the second-generation Kodiaq in October and the world premiere of the fourth-generation Superb in November. The brand’s ICE flagship will continue to be available in both hatchback and Combi estate body styles.

In Vrchlabí, Skoda Auto’s production focused on DQ200 automatic direct-shift transmissions, with a total of 686,066 units manufactured. These transmissions are integral not only to Skoda’s models but also to vehicles across the Volkswagen Group.

International production facilities

At the Volkswagen facility in Bratislava, Skoda Auto’s production included over 36,000 units of the Karoq SUV and the initial units of the new Superb generation. The company was responsible for the entire development of both the Skoda Superb and Volkswagen Passat, which are manufactured on the same production line in Bratislava. This initiative is part of the Beta+ project, aimed at leveraging synergies in the production network and further boosting efficiency. By transferring the production of the Superb to Bratislava, the carmaker is creating capacity for additional units of the Octavia at the Kvasiny plant from the summer of 2024 onwards. Additionally, the move will allow more battery-electric vehicles to be built at the Mladá Boleslav plant.

At the Ukrainian plant in Solomonovo, 2,580 Skoda cars were assembled last year from semi-knocked-down (SKD) kits imported from Czech production plants. The potential for increasing production volumes at the Solomonovo facility is contingent on the evolving war situation in Ukraine.

Across the four Chinese factories in Changsha (Kodiaq and Kodiaq GT), Nanjing (Kamiq, Kamiq GT and Superb), Ningbo (Octavia, Octavia Pro and Karoq) and Yizheng (Rapid), the Czech car manufacturer built approximately 18,500 vehicles in 2023.

Internationalisation strategy: entering new markets and building synergies

Skoda Auto effectively advanced its internationalisation strategy throughout 2023. The Pune factory in India produced almost 48,000 units of the locally developed Kushaq and Slavia models. Additionally, the Aurangabad plant contributed approximately 4,400 units, encompassing the Superb, Octavia, and Kodiaq models. In total, Skoda Auto’s Indian facilities produced over 52,000 vehicles.

The company is actively seeking to reach more customers in India while also expanding its international market presence. In line with this objective, Skoda Auto opened a new Parts Expedition Centre in Pune in October 2023. This will serve as a logistics hub for completely-knocked-down (CKD) kits of the Kushaq and Slavia models manufactured in India, starting this year.

In December last year, the Indian Parts Expedition Centre achieved a significant milestone by being the first in India to receive the Indian Green Building Council’s platinum certificate for green building. The certification underscores the facility’s adherence to green building principles, focusing on water conservation, energy efficiency, natural resource preservation, waste reduction, and creating healthier spaces for workers. These efforts align with Skoda Auto’s corporate strategy for a sustainable future.

From Pune, the CKD kits are set to be exported to Vietnam, reflecting Skoda Auto’s expansion into that market in September 2023. Vietnam is part of the ASEAN region where Skoda Auto strategically leads the Brand Group Core and aims to maximise growth for the Volkswagen Group.

Skoda Auto’s re-entry into Kazakhstan in October 2023 marks another significant step in its internationalisation efforts, contributing to the company’s goal of expanding its global presence.

In preparation, the company has made considerable investments in modernising both the production line and welding shop. By transferring the production of the new-generation Superb from Kvasiny to Bratislava, Slovakia, the Czech carmaker has created additional capacity at Kvasiny to manufacture the successful Kodiaq and Karoq SUV models.

The new Kodiaq will continue to be produced on its original production line. In a strategic move to future-proof the Kvasiny plant, Skoda Auto has invested 49 million euros in modernising the production line and welding shop. This investment also encompasses preparations for the production of the new Kodiaq iV, featuring a plug-in hybrid drivetrain. Key enhancements during the production line conversion include updates to manipulators, chassis assembly, conveyor technologies, and the refinement of robot functions for applying window glue.

Until recently, the production line at the Kvasiny plant was also used for the Skoda Superb. In a strategic move to increase SUV production capacity, Superb production has now been relocated to the Volkswagen plant in Bratislava, coinciding with the launch of its fourth generation. This effectively frees up capacity at Kvasiny, enabling the plant to produce an additional 150,000 units annually of the Karoq and Kodiaq SUV models. Consequently, the plant is primed to build up to 410 Kodiaqs a day.

Showcasing fresh exterior and interior details, the all-new SUV features the first elements of the brand’s new Modern Solid design language. The world premiere is slated for 4 October at 18:45 CEST and will be broadcast live on the Škoda Storyboard and Škoda’s YouTube and X channels.

The teaser reveals key updates, including new tailgate lettering consistent with Škoda’s updated CI, a completely redesigned interior with Smart Dials controls and a steering column-mounted selector lever.

These updates are complemented by the addition of fresh Modern Solid design elements. Recently celebrated as Škoda’s 3 millionth SUV, the Kodiaq offers a host of efficient drivetrains, now including a plug-in hybrid variant with an electric range of over 100 kilometres.

The livestream will be broadcast in English and Czech on the Škoda Storyboard and Škoda’s YouTube and X channels on 4 October at 18:45 CEST.

Among the highlights are a sculptural front end, distinctive squared-off wheel arches, wheel sizes ranging from 17 to 20 inches, a solid rear bumper, and second-generation TOP LED Matrix headlights featuring crystalline design elements.

The upcoming Skoda Kodiaq features a distinctive look with larger dimensions, promising even more interior space. It boasts a sculpted bonnet, squared-off wheel arches, and wheel options from 17 to 20 inches. Another visual highlight is the optional D-pillar trim in a unique Dark Chrome finish.

Second-generation TOP LED Matrix headlights are making their debut on the Kodiaq while at the rear, a distinctive wide C-shaped light signature extends towards the centre. Beneath this, a red bar connects the two rear lights, with a solid rear bumper enhancing the appearance. Centrally positioned on the tailgate, new Skoda lettering completes the powerful look.

The world premiere will be streamed live on the Skoda Storyboard as well as Skoda’s YouTube channel on 4 October 2023 at 18:45 CEST.

Škoda Auto projects a rapid expansion of the dealer network to as many as 30 partners and an annual sales potential of over 40,000 units beyond 2030. The first models, starting with the Karoq and Kodiaq, will be imported from Europe. Local CKD production, planned to start next year, aims to leverage synergies due to the country’s proximity to India. Škoda views Vietnam as a gateway to the promising ASEAN region.

First models imported from Europe in 2023, start of local CKD production in 2024

Škoda has a well-defined roadmap for the Vietnamese market, with plans to expand its model portfolio in response to customer preferences. The Octavia and Superb models are slated for importation to Vietnam in the medium term. Additionally, the all-electric Enyaq family is being introduced to cater to the growing demand for electric vehicles among Vietnamese consumers.

Starting in the second half of 2024, Škoda will be tapping into significant regional synergies. By then, the first Kushaq vehicles will have been exported from the Pune facility in India to Vietnam for assembly from CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits, with the Slavia set to follow in 2025. Construction of a production line at the Viet Hung Industrial Park in Quang Ninh province by Škoda’s local partner TC Group is already underway. Based on market trends, there are ambitions to ramp up production, potentially assembling as many as 27,000 vehicles annually after 2027.

Enhancing onboard operation, the customisable Škoda Smart Dials allow for easy control. Each rotary push-button provides intuitive access to various vehicle functions, and a digital display ensures a quick, comprehensive overview at any time. In a move toward greater sustainability, Škoda now uses upholstery made from 100% recycled polyester for both the new Kodiaq and Superb.

Innovative new features for even more comfort onboard

Škoda has redesigned the interiors of both upcoming models, including enhancements to the steering wheel, instrument cluster, dashboard, and decorative trim. A Škoda first: the gear selector has moved to the steering column in both models, making it particularly accessible. As a result, the centre console has a tidy, clearly structured layout, opening up additional space for the front passengers.

Other firsts in the Kodiaq and the Superb include a head-up display complementing the 10-inch Virtual Cockpit, and a free-standing central infotainment display that is larger than ever, measuring 13 inches diagonally. Also debuting in both models, Škoda Smart Dials are innovative rotary push-buttons that cleverly integrate haptic and digital components for a more intuitive experience.

Škoda Smart Dials: Push-buttons with digital displays

With the introduction of Škoda Smart Dials, the Czech carmaker is taking the proven combination of haptic and digital controls in its vehicles to the next level. This entirely new approach consists of three rotary push-buttons below the infotainment screen, each with a 32-millimetre digital display. These allow quick access to numerous vehicle functions based on the equipment level.

The two outer Smart Dials for the driver and front passenger control the interior temperature, seat heating, and seat ventilation, displaying the currently active function. The centre Smart Dial controls up to four different functions, such as the infotainment volume, fan speed, air direction, smart air conditioning, driving modes, and map zoom. The central Smart Dial is configured via the infotainment system menu, and holding the button down switches between functions.

Expanded range of Simply Clever features

The quest for enhanced comfort onboard is evident in the new additions, including the Phone Box with fast inductive smartphone charging capabilities of up to 15 W – and in the Kodiaq, this extends to two phones – paired with an active cooling function. Additionally, passengers benefit from up to four USB-C ports with a power output of 45 W, as well as a convenient 15 W USB-C port on the rear-view mirror.

Not to be overlooked, the new Kodiaq is available with ergo seats complete with a pneumatic massage function. Rear-seat passengers will also appreciate a fresh storage compartment in the centre tunnel. In the Superb, a redesigned steering wheel, instrument cluster and decorative trim elements blend seamlessly with enhanced optional massage seats. These now include ten pneumatically controlled massage cushions and an extensive selection of programs, with four-way adjustable lumbar support.

Matching the Kodiaq, all heating functions for the seats, steering wheel, windscreen, and rear window can be conveniently managed via a configurable Heaters button in the climate control menu.

Sustainable materials for all textiles and two popular Simply Clever features

Škoda demonstrates its commitment to sustainability by using environmentally responsible materials for all interior textiles, as well as for two iconic Simply Clever features: the umbrella in the driver’s door and the ice scraper. Continuing the approach of other Škoda models, the traditional equipment lines have been replaced by the Design Selections concept:

In the Kodiaq, customers can opt for Loft, Lounge, or ecoSuite in Black or Cognac, with textiles crafted from 100% recycled polyester. The leather in the ecoSuite Design Selection benefits from an eco-friendly tanning process using coffee bean processing residues.

For the fourth-generation Superb, the Essence trim level includes the Design Selection Studio, with choices for the Selection trim level encompassing Loft and Lounge, as well as the Design Selection Suite in Black and Cognac. The top L&K model extends the offer with the Design Selection L&K Suite in Black and Cognac, boasting leather sustainably tanned using wastewater from olive processing.

The construction will begin in 2024. By transitioning to wood chips and phyto-pellets, energy production will become fully carbon neutral. With estimated costs of €141 million, the upgraded heating plant will be one of the largest projects of its kind in the Czech Republic and operational within three years. It will contribute to Škoda’s ambitious environmental targets along the entire value chain, anchored in its Next Level Škoda Strategy 2030.

Shift from fossil fuels to save up to 290,000 tonnes of CO2 annually

The project launch is slated for the first half of 2024. A total revamp of the power plant will be carried out within three years. All boilers will exclusively use biomass, consisting of 70% wood chips and 30% phyto-pellets. The biomass will be certified according to both European and Czech legislation, emphasising the sustainability of the entire supply chain. Once the transition is complete, annual CO2 savings will amount to an estimated 290,000 tonnes per year.

Currently, the power plant uses a combination of coal and biomass; ŠKO-ENERGO first started using biomass in 2005. Since then, the proportion of eco-friendly fuel has been steadily increasing. By 2022, renewable energy sources accounted for approximately 35% of all energy used at Škoda Auto’s Czech production plants.

Škoda Auto has ambitious environmental goals

Škoda Auto has tightened its environmental targets, further reducing the carbon footprint of its corporate activities. At its plants in the Czech Republic and India, the car manufacturer will be switching to completely carbon-neutral production by the end of this decade. The plant in Vrchlabí already achieved this milestone in 2020.

Regarding the model portfolio, the company plans to significantly accelerate the introduction of new e-vehicles. In the coming years, it will be launching six all-electric models, with commitments to invest €5.6 billion into electromobility by 2027.

In addition, Škoda Auto is focused on increasing sustainability across the entire value chain. This includes the broad deployment of recycled and recyclable materials and reusing high-voltage batteries from electric cars in stationary installations before they undergo careful recycling and new products are created from their raw materials.

In addition, the second generation of the Kodiaq is marked by a new interior concept featuring a touchscreen display measuring up to 12.9 inches, a gearshift lever on the steering column, manual and digital controls and a tidy, well-organised centre console.

The engine roster includes two petrol and two diesel engines ranging from 150 hp (110 kW) to 204 hp (150 kW) as well as a plug-in hybrid version – a first for the Kodiaq. This offers an electric range of more than 62 miles (100 kilometres).

The safety equipment is once again state-of-the-art, boasting for example second-generation full LED Matrix headlights and even more advanced assistance systems. Also on board: new Simply Clever features, such as a rear storage compartment with a cup holder and a dual Phone Box that provides cooling and simultaneous charging for two mobile phones.

Klaus Zellmer, Chairman of the Board of Škoda Auto, says: “The Kodiaq has been an absolute success for Škoda ever since its launch in 2016, when it kickstarted our SUV campaign. With its powerful and crystalline design language, spacious interior and excellent value for money, it attracted many new customers and won renowned international awards. The second generation has all the prerequisites – including a plug-in hybrid version – to add another great chapter to this success story.”

As with its predecessor, the new model will be manufactured at the Kvasiny plant on the same production line as the Karoq, Superb and Superb iV. The new-generation Superb will start rolling off the production line in Bratislava in early 2024, thus freeing up capacity for some 150,000 additional units of the popular Kodiaq and Karoq SUVs annually.

The car manufacturer is investing around 12 million euros in converting the production line to also take account of future requirements, with the line already being prepared to produce the Kodiaq iV with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain. The investments involve the integration of existing technologies such as manipulators, chassis assembly and conveyors, and the modification of robots for window-glue application. Up to 410 second-generation Kodiaqs should then roll off the assembly line every day.

Skoda Auto will present the second generation of its largest SUV, the Kodiaq, this autumn, with the market launch set to follow in 2024. The model will be available with modern and efficient petrol and diesel engines and also, for the first time, as a plug-in and a mild hybrid. In terms of safety, technology and versatility, the car manufacturer is taking its largest SUV to a new level. The new Kodiaq will have all the prerequisites to build on its predecessor’s success story.

Since its global premiere on 1 September 2016, Skoda has produced over 800 000 Kodiaqs at its plants in the Czech Republic, Ukraine, China, India and – until early 2022 – also in Russia. The large SUV was the trailblazer for the Czech car manufacturer’s successful SUV campaign. Optionally available as a seven-seater and offering a spacious interior, the Kodiaq introduced Skoda’s fascinating crystalline design language to the segment. The large SUV has impressed both customers and journalists from international trade magazines – more than 40 international awards testify to its outstanding qualities and extraordinary popularity across global markets.

Aside from their updated exterior design, the new Superb and Kodiaq will come with new features, improved technology, and a completely redesigned interior. Škoda fans can expect modern, efficient petrol and diesel engines, as well as plug-in and mild hybrid options for both cars.

Škoda's Superb and Kodiaq have been outstandingly successful models, with the Superb serving as the brand's top hatchback/Combi estate and the Kodiaq as their top SUV. The Superb name was first used in the 1930s for Škoda's range-topping luxury car. Since then, the Superb has collected numerous prestigious awards, with the first-generation model selling almost 137,000 units between 2001 and 2008.

The Kodiaq, launched in 2016, has already sold more than 740,000 units and introduced Škoda's crystalline design language to the SUV segment. Škoda fans can expect the new Superb and Kodiaq to continue the success of their predecessors, with each model offering increased space, better fuel efficiency, and innovative assistance systems for enhanced safety.

2021 Skoda Kodiaq - Exterior Updates

The 2021 Skoda Kodiaq gets a tweaked bonnet design and a more upright and wider hexagonal front grille that looks very similar to that of the India-spec Kushaq. The Kodiaq facelift features new LED matrix headlamps, which are slimmer than before and have an unique crystalline effect. The LED fog lamps have been positioned slightly below, creating a four-eyed face. It also gets a restyled front bumper with a wider central air dam that are framed by L-shaped elements on either side.

There are not many changes to the profile of the SUV. It, however, does get a new set of stylish 18- and 20-inch alloy wheels. At the back, the roof lip spoiler is longer and the taillight design has also been slimmed down and has been detailed with the new crystalline effect. Incidentally, Skoda's new crystalline theme can also be seen on the Skoda Kushaq.

Also Read : Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo Visualised - Looks Rad! [Video]

2021 Skoda Kodiaq - Interior Updates

The interior of the Skoda Kodiaq facelift is mostly very similar to the pre-facelift model. However, it does get a decorative stitching on the dashboard, front door inserts and door panels. That said, Skoda have thrown in quite some new features to up the experience inside the cabin of the Kodiaq. One of the most notable updates is Skoda's new two-spoke steering wheel. A three-spoke steering wheel can be availed as an option on the Sportline and RS variants.

Thankfully, Skoda have retained the physical dials and buttons for the HVAC controls. The Kodiaq now gets optional ergonomic ventilated seats that can be heated, and offer a massage function. The LED ambient lighting feature now extends to the footwell area and includes 10 color options. Skoda have also upgraded the CANTON sound system to a 12-speaker unit instead of the 10-speaker setup from before. Other key features such as a panoramic sunroof, three-zone climate control, and electric seats with memory function have been retained.

2021 Skoda Kodiaq - Powertrain Options

Under the hood, the Kodiaq facelift is available with a range of petrol and diesel engine options internationally. The petrol engine range includes a 150hp 1.5L TSI engine and a 190hp 2.0L TSI Engine. Meanwhile, the diesel engine range consists of a 2.0L TDI engine available in two specs of tune - 150hp and 200hp.

The 1.5L petrol TSI can solely be had in a front-wheel drive configuration with gearbox options including a 6-speed manual transmission or 7-speed DSG. The 2.0L TSI engine comes mated to a 7-speed DSG gearbox and is offered with all-wheel drive as standard. Meanwhile, both specs of the diesel engine come with the 7-speed DSG gearbox and all-wheel drive. The 150hp diesel variant can also be availed with front-wheel drive. There's also a sportier Kodiaq RS variant that gets the 2.0L TSI engine with 245hp and the 7-speed DSG gearbox.

Back here in India, the Kodiaq will make a return as a petrol-only SUV. The BS4-spec Skoda Kodiaq was powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder diesel engine, complete with a 7-speed DSG gearbox and a 4x4 system. However, the upcoming Kodiaq facelift will be powered by the 190hp, 2.0L TSI engine in India. It will continue with a 7-speed DCT automatic gearbox and a 4x4 system.

2021 Skoda Kodiaq - India Launch

The facelifted Skoda Kodiaq can be expected to make it to our shores in the third quarter of 2021 (July-September), as per  Zac Hollis, Director of Sales, Service and Marketing, Skoda Auto India. It will be third launch for the Czech carmaker in India as it will be preceded by the new Skoda Octavia launch this April, followed by the Kushaq compact-SUV slated for a launch in June 2021. When launched, it will rival the Volkswagen Tiguan AllSpace and the newly launched Citroen C5 Aircross.

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more Skoda updates and other four-wheeler news.

2021 Skoda Kodiaq - Exterior Updates

The 2021 Skoda Kodiaq will get a tweaked bonnet design and a more upright and hexagonal front grille that looks very similar to that of the Kushaq. Skoda has also revised the headlamp design, which are slimmer than before, and the fog lamps have been positioned slightly below, creating a four-eyed face.

At the back, the taillight design has also been slimmed down and it features the Skoda’s new signature crystalline pattern - also seen on the Kushaq. Previous sketch images have revealed it will come with a restyled front bumper with a wider central air dam that are framed by L-shaped elements on either side and an aluminum insert.

Also Read : Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo Visualised - Looks Rad! [Video]

2021 Skoda Kodiaq - Interior Updates

While Skoda have shed some light on the exterior of the Kodiaq facelift, they haven't previewed any images of the interior of the SUV. That said, we expect the updates, if at all, to be just as subtle as the exterior. Updates could come in the form of a mildly revised dashboard design, new trim and upholstery and new features as well. We will have full details about the interior and equipment list on offer when the SUV is officially unveiled tomorrow.

2021 Skoda Kodiaq - Powertrain Options

There are not much details about the engine options that would be offered with the facelifted model as of yet. That said, Skoda could bring back the sporty vRS model of the Kodiaq with this facelift as it was discontinued in international markets in 2020 due to emission rules. Skoda could also introduce some electrification to the Kodiaq range, much like the mild-hybrid version of the Octavia that's available internationally.

Back here in India, the Kodiaq will make a return as a petrol-only SUV. The BS4-spec Skoda Kodiaq was powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder diesel engine, complete with a 7-speed DSG gearbox and a 4x4 system. However, the upcoming Kodiaq facelift will be powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder TSI turbo-petrol engine that will produce 190hp and 320Nm. Compared to the diesel engine, this new petrol engine is more powerful (by 40hp), but produces less torque (by 80Nm). It will continue with a 7-speed DCT automatic gearbox and a 4x4 system.

2021 Skoda Kodiaq - India Launch

The facelifted Skoda Kodiaq can be expected to make it to our shores in the third quarter of 2021 (July-September), as per  Zac Hollis, Director of Sales, Service and Marketing, Skoda Auto India. It will be third launch for the Czech carmaker in India as it will be preceded by the new Skoda Octavia launch this April, followed by the Kushaq compact-SUV slated for a launch in June 2021.

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more Skoda updates and other four-wheeler news.

Now it is this facelifted version of the Skoda Kodiaq that will make its way back to India later this year in a petrol-only guise. This is the first major update on the SUV since it was originally launched. In the run up to its global debut, these new design sketches give us a preview of what the updated SUV could look like. And while it may look largely similar to the outgoing model, the differences are in the details. One cane even say that this new design brings it more in line with its younger sibling, the Skoda Kushaq.

Also Read : Should Skoda Grace The Kushaq With A Top-Spec Monte Carlo Edition In India?

The 2021 Skoda Kodiaq will get a tweaked bonnet design, a more upright and hexagonal front grille that looks very similar to that of the Kushaq, a restyled front bumper with a wider central air dam that are framed by L-shaped elements on either side and an aluminum insert. Skoda has also revised the headlamp design, which are slimmer than before and the fog lamps have been positioned slightly below, creating a four-eyed face. At the back, the taillight design has also been slimmed down and it features the Skoda’s new signature crystalline pattern - also seen on the Kushaq.

The BS4-spec Skoda Kodiaq was powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder diesel engine, complete with a 7-speed DSG gearbox and a 4x4 system. However, the upcoming Kodiaq facelift will be powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder TSI turbo-petrol engine that will produce 190hp and 320Nm. Compared to the diesel engine, this new petrol engine is more powerful (by 40hp) but produces less torque (by 80Nm). It will  continue with a 7-speed DCT automatic gearbox but it remains to be seen if Skoda still offers the 4x4 system on the Kodiaq. The Kodiaq petrol at the Auto Expo did feature a 4x4 system.

The Skoda Kodiaq facelift will be making its way down to India later this year, possibly in the third quarter of the year. Ahead of that, Skoda has two more important launches coming up. The launch of the Kodiaq facelift will be preceded by the launch of the new-gen  Skoda Octavia in April 2021. That will be followed by the market launch of the Skoda Kushaq in June 2021.

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more Skoda updates and other four-wheeler news.

Zac Hollis, Director - Sales, Service & Marketing, Skoda (India) is the one who has revealed the new development. Replying to query about a possible delay in the Skoda Kodiaq relaunch on Twitter recently, Hollis said: “Yes, it’s possible.”

Regular readers would know that Volkswagen Group is phasing out its staple 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine in India because of the BS6 transition in the country. The company is upgrading all its models to comply with the BS6 emission norms with petrol engines.

Skoda will replace the 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine of the Kodiaq to a 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine for the BS6 transition. The BS4 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine produces 150 PS at 3,500-4,000 rpm and 340 Nm of torque at 1,750-3,000 rpm. One would expect a more powerful engine in such a pricey, 7-seat SUV. The new petrol engine coming this year will fix that concern.

The BS6 2.0-litre TSI Skoda plans to introduce in the Kodiaq in India develops 190 PS at 4,200-6,000 rpm and 320 Nm of torque at 1,500,4200 rpm. As before, the 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission and an AWD system will be standard. The company may price the Kodiaq petrol from under INR 35 lakh (ex-showroom).

Also See: Skoda Kodiaq RS Challenge revealed, priced at INR 42 lakh

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more Skoda updates and other four-wheeler news.

[Source: twitter.com]

The Skoda Kodiaq RS Challenge, unlike what its name suggests, has no performance upgrades over the Skoda Kodiaq RS. It's just about additional equipment. In addition to the features of the RS variant, the RS Challenge variant includes Assisted Ride 2.0 package, 9 airbags, heated steering wheel and 9.2-inch Columbus touchscreen infotainment system.

The Assisted Ride package comprises lane change assistant, lane maintenance assistant, traffic sign recognition, parking assistant, traffic jam assistant, emergency assistant and a digital instrument cluster with RS graphics.

Under the hood, the Skoda Kodiaq RS Challenge has the brand’s most powerful diesel engine. It’s a 2.0-litre bi-turbo four-cylinder diesel unit that dishes out 176 kW (240 PS) of maximum power and 500 Nm of torque maximum torque. The double-turbocharged diesel engine works in conjunction with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system.

The Skoda Kodiaq RS Challenge can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds. It has a top speed of 221 km/h. For those intrigued about the efficiency of this go-fast family hauler, the fuel economy rating is 16.12 km/l. The Skoda Kodiaq RS Challenge costs CZK 13,99,900, which converts to INR 42,43,360. Only 300 units have been put on sale.

Last year, it was reported that Skoda plans to launch the Kodiaq RS in India this year. However, given that it could cost anywhere between INR 40-45 lakh (ex-showroom) easily, we're still doubtful if the rumours are true.

Also Read: Insider gets a private preview of next-gen Skoda Fabia, talks about its design

Stay tuned to IndianAutosBlog.com for more Skoda updates and other four-wheeler news.

The Skoda Kodiaq seen here employs the 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 140 kW (190 PS) at 4,200-6,000 rpm and 320 Nm of torque at 1,500-4,200 rpm. The 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission and an AWD system work together to send drive to the wheels.

The display model is in the L&K trim and painted in the Lava Blue colour. Unlike the currently sold Skoda Kodiaq L&K diesel, this Skoda Kodiaq L&K petrol is equipped with 19-inch Sirius Anthracite alloy wheels. Other highlights include full-LED headlights, LED tail lights, Virtual Cockpit fully digital instrument cluster, panoramic sunroof with Bounce-Back system, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with SmartLink, 12-way electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, Stone Beige leather seats, 3-zone Climatronic automatic climate control system and Virtual Pedal with electrically controlled boot door,

Also included in the equipment list are some Simply Clever features like Power Nap Package, removable boot torch and umbrella storage. On the safety front, the Skoda Kodiaq petrol is equipped with a 360-degree view camera system, seven airbags, iBuzz, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Multi-Collision Braking (MKB).

The Skoda Kodiaq diesel will be discontinued in India by the end of next month. Around that time, the Skoda Kodiaq petrol will be launched. The former will likely make a comeback around a year from now, once its engine is upgraded to BS-VI. The Skoda Kodiaq competes with likes of Mitsubishi Outlander as well as the Honda CR-V, Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour and Mahindra Alturas G4. Later this year, there will be a seven-seat imported SUV in our market - the VW Tiguan Allspace.

The Skoda Kodiaq diesel is currently available in Style and L&K trims. The former costs INR 35,36,599*, but till March 2020, it is available at a special price of INR 32,99,599*. The latter is priced at INR 36,78,599*.

*Ex-showroom