by Updated Skoda Kodiaq spotted in tests: what is known about the facelift
Spy photographers have captured the updated Skoda Kodiaq during testing. The crossover has received a modified front bumper with a new air intake. Special attention is being paid to the RS version, which may get a new engine.
External changes: new front-end design
Skoda recently unveiled a range of new and updated electric vehicles, including the entry-level Epiq. However, the Czech brand has not forgotten about its internal combustion engine lineup, as spy photographers have taken pictures of the updated Kodiaq.
Spotted during testing in the Alps, the updated car is immediately recognizable but receives a new front bumper. Its design is concealed by camouflage, but we can see a completely new lower air intake, replacing the honeycomb grille with new horizontal accents.
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The designers also appear to have updated the radiator grille and vertical air curtains. We can also see a new lower lip, which now looks thicker.
Rear end and interior: expected updates
Changes at the rear are harder to discern, but we can likely expect a new bumper and updated taillights.
Spy photographers were unable to look inside, although we would not be surprised to find an updated infotainment system and improved driver assistance systems. Designers may also introduce more sustainable materials.
Engines: what will remain and what will change
The current Kodiaq is offered with a variety of engines, including a turbocharged 1.5-liter TSI producing 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS) and 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) of torque. It is joined by 2.0-liter TSIs producing 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and 262 hp (195 kW / 265 PS).
Customers can also get 2.0-liter TDI engines producing 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS) and 190 hp (142 kW / 193 PS). Also available is a hybrid powertrain producing 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS), which combines the 1.5-liter TSI engine with an electric motor and a 25.7 kWh battery pack.
While many of these engines are likely to remain, there are rumors that the Kodiaq RS may get a new engine with over 300 horsepower. The change is said to be related to emissions, but only time will tell what happens.
The Kodiaq update is part of Skoda’s strategy to keep its ICE lineup relevant in the era of electrification. While the brand is actively investing in electric vehicles such as the Epiq, demand for traditional crossovers remains high, especially in markets where EV infrastructure is not yet developed. The potential increase in power for the RS version to over 300 hp indicates a desire to compete with models such as the Volkswagen Tiguan R or Cupra Formentor VZ5, which could strengthen the Kodiaq’s position in the sporty crossover segment. At the same time, retaining the PHEV hybrid version allows meeting environmental regulations without completely abandoning internal combustion engines.
