Hi all, we are considering a return to Skoda having moved away in 2019 with the need for a third child seat across the back. Two of the kids are out of child seats now and both our cars (i30 estate & S-Max) are showing their age.

I've liked the look of the Kodiaq since its launch, but couldn't justify getting one until now. There will be other vehicles on the potential lists, but my initial research suggests that I won't get the boot space, capability and economy combination at this price point with other manufacturers.

I'm after a diesel 4x4 and wifey would like a plug in hybrid - I know that option came in the later version, so I'll mainly focus on mine here. I am currently looking at 2021 to 2023 models.

I understand that the 4x4 with a manual gearbox was discontinued as an option in 2018, which is a shame, but I'm not completely opposed to going auto.

My main question is - are there any particular options or combinations to avoid or seek out? I'm particularly thinking anything along the lines of the Ford Powershi(f)t gearbox issues where there might be common (expensive) failures, but can't-live-without options and other insights are also welcome.

What is general reliability like? Are there any simple mods or accessories that you recommend (roof bars will be a given at £30 for a new foot pack for mine)? Was a spare wheel an option across the range or was it standard on some models?

The main trim levels seem to be SE, SE L, and L&K, but I have also seen SE Drive and Executive - where do they sit in the range? Which is the highest spec without leather seats?

Thanks in advance, Sam

Pic of our most recent Octavia for attention (taken in Cornwall, 2017)

Edited 13 January13 Jan by Sammycarp
Editted because it posted before I had finished typing!

For MY21, models were : SE, SE Drive, SEL, Sportline, L&K. I am not familiar with an Executive model. Only L&K had leather as standard. I can send you the MY21 brochure if you're interested. I have an MY21 1.5 TSI SEL.

Not too familiar with possible Diesel or 4 x 4 issues (I have neither), but I believe there are concerns about the longevity of gearboxes, the Start button is a weak spot (I had mine replaced).

Some will deter you from a sunroof, I think it adds greatly to the sense of space in the car and not had a problem with it.

Virtual Cockpit I think is a nice to have and can, according to some sources, help with resale value.

Rear view camera is an essential IMO.

I avoided any of the safety/convenience systems, that did mean I lost the mirror USB-C socket from my order (MY21 Build Week 48 changes) and so am not using my dashcam. I could wire it in but am fearful of warranty issues. If a simply connected dashcam is important to you, or you have particular need for the mirror USB-C socket I believe there are certain pre-requisite features/packages required before it became an option which you may not want but will have to accept.

I specified Virtual Pedal (boot) because it was relatively cheap and whilst I considered it would be a bit of a gimmick I thought it might be useful. I use it much more than I thought I would, not least to minimise boot switch wear and tear (had an issue on a different make/model).

No spare as standard, but spacesaver available as an option on most combinations (not 5 seaters or L&K I think).

EDIT : from brochure -

Temporary steel space saver spare wheel with tool kit and jack. 215/65 R17 not available in combination with 7 seats or variable boot floor : Option on SE

Temporary steel space saver spare wheel with tool kit and jack. 145/85 R18 not available in combination with variable boot floor on SE (5 seat) : Option on everything but L&K

Edited 13 January13 Jan by SimonB68
Added spare wheel info and corrected ignition to Start button

Hi,

I had a sunroof on my ex Superb Estate Mk3. I don't have it on my Kodiaq, but don't miss it. The light grey roof lining doesn't make the cabin to dark.

IHMO, here are the 'must have' I would hardly go without now:

• Matrix LED front beams

• DSG

• Keyless system

• Heated seats

• Blind spot detection

• ACC

• DCC

• Backup camera

On the contrary, here are those I could go without:

• Vented seats

• Ergo seats

• Lane Assist

• Heated windcreen

• Heated steering wheel

• 360° camera

• Electric tailgate / Virtual pedal

• Auto-Hold

• Heated windcreen

• Electric tailgate / Virtual pedal

• Auto-Hold

Absolutely essential for me.

In addition:

• traffic jam assist (needs Lane Assistant)

• Rear Traffic Alert

• rain sensor

• Android Auto

• Progressive Steering

• Better sound system etc