Skoda Kodiaq Select Hybrid priced for March arrival

The newcomer undercuts electrified South Korean rivals such as the Kia Sorento HEV (from $56,630 before on-road costs) and Hyundai Santa Fe HEV (from $57,650 + ORC), as well as the Toyota Kluger hybrid (from $62,410 + ORC). 

Chinese contenders are more competitive on price, with the Chery Tiggo 8 and BYD Sealion 8 packing plug-in hybrid tech for $45,990 d/a and $56,990 + ORC respectively. 

Skoda is also undercutting its own outgoing Kodiaq AWD Select ($54,990 + ORC), adding equipment and a higher level of efficiency at lower entry point but losing all-wheel drive. 

The updated Kodiaq introduces a 48-volt mild-hybrid powertrain to the local line-up, aimed at improving efficiency and refinement while retaining the practicality that Skoda Australia says has underpinned the nameplate’s appeal in the large SUV segment. 

Combined fuel consumption is rated at 6.0 litres per 100km for the five-seat variant and 6.1L/100km for the seven-seater, a substantial cut over the outgoing 2.0L petrol Kodiaq Select’s 9.0L/100km on the combined cycle. 

Under the bonnet, the Kodiaq Select MHEV features a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor, delivering outputs of 110kW and 250Nm (down from 150kW/230Nm from the previous Select). 

Drive is sent to the front wheels alone via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. 

Skoda says the electrified system is designed to reduce fuel consumption and enhance refinement, with functions including energy recuperation under braking, electric assistance during acceleration and engine-off coasting. 

Inside, the Kodiaq continues to focus on comfort and usability, with a broad suite of standard features including tri-zone climate control, heated front seats, power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, and an electric tailgate. 

Technology highlights include a 13.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with satellite navigation, a 10.0-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual wireless charging pads, and multiple USB-C ports. 

Cabin flexibility remains a key selling point, with the five-seat model offering up to 828 litres of luggage capacity, complemented by Skoda’s signature ‘Simply Clever’ features such as integrated umbrellas, door-mounted waste bins, and configurable storage solutions. 

A comprehensive safety suite is fitted as standard, incorporating Travel Assist, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, adaptive lane guidance, predictive adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and rear cross-traffic alert, all supported by nine airbags. 

Skoda Australia Kodiaq product manager Aline Carrullo said the addition of mild-hybrid technology enhances the model’s appeal for local buyers. 

“The new Kodiaq Select Hybrid unites efficiency, refinement and exceptional value for our Australian customers,” she said. 

“With its advanced mild-hybrid powertrain, upgraded equipment and the practical features Skoda customers love, this model sets a new benchmark for the segment.”