Upgraded style and value for Kodiaq Edition X

ALMOST in a rush over the past couple of decades, carmakers collectively have looked upon the SUV as their saviour in a constantly challenging new car market.

Major carmakers have created a “family” of SUVs, including small, medium and large versions of virtually the same car.

It has been a trend that has paid off because many motorists now are able to buy an SUV to suit the size of their family.

I don’t think the SUV has signed the death warrant of the saloon or the ubiquitous estate car for that matter.

But there is no doubt that the SUV (sport utility vehicle) has revolutionised the family car environment.

And, of course, the SUV philosophy fits nicely into the age of the EV (electric vehicle).

Škoda, the Czech carmaker owned by the giant Volkswagen Group, is no exception to the SUV trend and has produced an impressive “family” of SUVs.

They are the Kamiq, the smallest SUV in the line-up; the Karoq, a mid-sized SUV that is as versatile as a city car as it is for outdoor activities; and the Kodiaq, the largest SUV in the carmaker’s range that is available in five- and seven-seater options and offers space for families plus outdoor adventure.

On the electric SUV front, the Elroq and Enyaq have proved to be popular alternative SUVs for those who want to opt for pure electric motoring.

Now Škoda is adding a special limited-edition model to its award-winning Kodiaq line-up.

The new Kodiaq Edition X marks 10 years since the unveiling of the SUV that helped transform Škoda into the brand it is today.

The new model, which features a good value standard specification, celebrates the ongoing success of Škoda’s flagship SUV, which has sat at the top of the brand’s product line-up since its introduction in 2016.

Priced at £40,590 (on the road), the new Kodiaq Edition X sits below the Government Expensive Car Supplement threshold, meaning, says the carmaker, “even lower running costs for owners”.

The Kodiaq Edition X builds on the specification of the Kodiaq SE L but adds additional features that offer, says Škoda, “exceptional value for money”.

Standard equipment includes 19in Halti anthracite alloy wheels, metallic paint and an exterior styling package consisting of a black D-pillar, unique dark chrome front grille and chrome roof rails.

Rear privacy glass, a front grille with horizontal light strip and a red decorative strip between the rear LED lights complete the external design enhancements.

Inside, the Kodiaq Edition X features an ecoSuite black design selection (with perforated black leather/artificial leather) and grey dashboard and decorative door inserts.

Comfort on even the longest journeys, claims the carmaker, is “guaranteed” thanks to an electrically adjustable driver’s seat with memory function and power adjustable lumbar support for the driver’s seat.

In terms of technology, the Edition X is fitted as standard with LED Matrix headlights with AFS (adaptive front light system), and AWL (all weather lighting system) with cornering function.

At the rear, LED lights with welcome effect and dynamic indicators give the Edition X a striking light signature. Keyless entry and start/stop system and an electrically operated boot complete the specification list. The new Kodiaq Edition X is fitted with Škoda’s efficient 1.5 TSI e-TEC 150 PS engine, mated to a seven-speed DSG transmission as standard.

Equipped with a mild hybrid system, this advanced engine features 48V technology and an electric motor for fuel-saving, smoother start-stop and coasting.

And, like the rest of the Kodiaq range, it offers high levels of practicality thanks to its seven-seat layout, large boot and good levels of cabin space.

Order books for the Edition X open on April 16, with first deliveries expected late spring.

The rest of the Kodiaq range remains unchanged with five core trim grade options including the recently introduced new flagship model, the Kodiaq L&K and the sporty vRS.

Customers can choose from a range of six powertrains, including plug-in hybrid, with outputs ranging from 150 PS to 265 PS (vRS only).

All-wheel drive is fitted as standard on models equipped with 2.0 TDI 193 PS DSG, 2.0 TSI 204 PS DSG and 2.0 TSI 265 PS DSG engines.