Skoda is expanding its range of plug-in hybrid offerings with the introduction of a new Kodiaq iV model, which will start from £41,935 OTR. The technology, which has been part of the Skoda range since the introduction of the Octavia iV in 2021, is being offered on the Kodiaq for the first time and comes with a significant all-electric driving range boost along with even greater efficiency.
Available to order now, the new Kodiaq iV features a drivetrain that was part of the SUV’s design process from the very start. This has allowed Skoda’s design and engineering team to perfectly place the components to deliver an optimum driving range without compromising the driving experience.
Skoda’s second-generation plug-in hybrid system is comprised of a four-cylinder turbocharged 1.5 TSI 150PS engine and a three-phase permanent magnet synchronous electric motor that generates 116PS and 330Nm of torque. To ensure that the whole drivetrain assembly is as compact as possible, the motor is built directly into the DQ400e DSG gearbox, and is separated from the engine by a clutch.
As with the first-generation PHEV drivetrain, the motor can move the car alone or in combination with the engine. The motor is also used to start the engine and replaces the traditional alternator.
The second-generation PHEV system makes local emission-free travel possible in electric mode for up to 75 miles (five seat, SE model), but also gives drivers the option of using the petrol engine in hybrid mode working alongside the electric motor for longer distances.
Key to the significant improvement in range (over the first-generation system) is a larger battery pack. The new Kodiaq iV is fitted with a 25.7kWh pack (19.7kWh usable) that is located under the rear seats. Equipped with integrated water cooling, the pack stores energy to drive the electric motor, accumulates energy gained from regenerative braking, and supplies energy for the heating and air conditioning compressor.
Another significant feature introduced on the second-generation PHEV drivetrain is faster charging. For the first time, a Skoda plug-in hybrid can accept a DC rapid charge. With a peak speed of up to 50kW, it means that the pack can be charged from 10-80% in around 26 minutes.
What’s more the addition of a CCS socket means that the Kodiaq iV can be charged at any public rapid charging station. As with Skoda’s previous PHEV models, the Kodiaq iV can also be charged on an AC supply via an industry-standard Type 2 plug. The maximum charge rate on AC is 11kW, which delivers a charge time of around 2hrs 30 minutes.
Price and equipment
The Kodiaq iV is offered with two trim level options, SE and and SE L. Both come with a five-seat configuration and feature generous specification levels.
Kodiaq iV SE from £41,935 OTR
The new Kodiaq SE features 18-inch Mazeno alloy wheels, LED front and rear lights, heated front seats and KESSY – keyless start/stop system. SE models come with Loft design selection as standard, along with a 13-inch satellite navigation touchscreen display, 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit and tri-zone climate control. The SE model also comes with a range of safety systems as standard, including Front Assist with braking reaction to vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists, Blind Spot Detection with door exit warning and Front Cross Traffic Assist.
Kodiaq iV SE L from £44,635 OTR
SE L models add 19-inch Rapeto alloy wheels, LED Matrix headlights with AFS (adaptive front light system), and all-weather light with cornering function. SE L models also feature ecoSuite black design selection with perforated black artificial leather and real leather, electrically adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, electrically operated boot and keyless entry and start/stop system.