The expansion of the Skoda marque in New Zealand — which achieved a new sales record of 1209 units in 2016 – looks set to gain further momentum from May when the new Kodiaq SUV arrives.
Skoda NZ has confirmed the specification and pricing for the new Kodiaq which takes the brand into a new sector of the market as its first large SUV model.
There will be four model variants — all with seven-seat accommodation as standard — and pricing is set to start at $39,990.
Skoda says the much-anticipated Kodiaq will appeal to New Zealand families with competitive pricing, bold design and the space and storage functionality which is a hallmark of current generation Skoda models.
‘‘New Zealand has a ravenous appetite for SUVs, and we’re seeing unprecedented levels of interest. With SUVs accounting for 52 per cent of new car sales last year we’re looking forward to going head-to-head with the big volume models,’’ said Greg Leet, Skoda general manager.
The entry-level Kodiaq Ambition model priced at $39,990 has a 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine developing 110kW and 250Nm of torque with front-wheel-drive and a six-speed DSG transmission.
Among its standard features is a Pedestrian Monitor, a new autonomous safety system that prevents collisions with pedestrians and minimises the car’s speed in the event of an impact.
Another feature standard on the Kodiaq is the door edge protection system — a mechanical system that extends and retracts automatically to protect the metal door edge from making contact with objects in tight car park spaces.
Other standard features across the Kodiaq range are full LED headlights and daytime running lamps and a powered tailgate. The Ambition model has half-leather seat trim and the Bolero audio/infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
The second-tier Ambition+ specification will start from $44,990 and adds four-wheel-drive along with leather seat trim, heated front seats, tri-zone air conditioning, keyless entry and engine start, a 10-colour LED interior ambient lighting package and an 8.0-inch Amundsen audio display with satellite navigation.
Both 1.4-litre models are fitted as standard with 18-inch alloy wheels with a 10-spoke design on the Ambition and 15-spoke style for the Ambition+.
At the top-of-the-range the Style grade will be available with 2.0-litre TSI petrol and 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine choices, four-wheel-drive and a seven-speed DSG transmission.
The petrol model is priced at $54,290 and offers 132kW output and 320Nm of torque while the 2.0 TDI is priced at $58,290 and develops 140kW and 400Nm of torque.
Additional features and technologies included on the Style model will include Dynamic Chassis Control, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detect and Lane Assist, a nine-speaker audio and Columbus navigation, power adjustable and ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera system, load partition net and 19-inch alloy wheels.
The Kodiaq represents a significant growth opportunity for Skoda New Zealand as its recent sales gains have been achieved with the small Yeti and the Octavia Scout estate as its only players in the fast-growing SUV segment.
