[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/37469399041/[/flickr]
The 2.0-litre oil-burner scores high in NVH but offers linear performance
Performance – Skoda is offering a single diesel engine option with the Kodiaq in India which is a 2.0-litre TDI unit that produces 150 PS of power and 340 Nm torque. I feel they should have offered the higher tuned 180 PS unit which is used in the Superb. It’s not that the Kodiaq feels underpowered but you don’t get that kick in the pants feeling acceleration. The power delivery is linear and gets progressive in a smooth manner from 2000 RPM. NVH levels are excellent for an oil-burner. Mated to the engine is a super slick 7-speed DSG offering super quick shifts and with the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, the drive is super fun. It is a great cruiser as well doing just 1600 RPM in the top gear at 100 km/hr. Skoda claims a fuel efficiency rating of 16.5 km/l. It has 5 driving modes – Normal, Eco, Sport, Individual and Snow that affects the steering wheel and engine tuning accordingly.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/23617615698/[/flickr]
Body roll is there but it’s well controlled and the ride is fantastic
Driving Dynamics – Skoda is spot on this time with the ride quality of the Kodiaq. The 7-seater offers a plush ride that absorbs the undulations like a boss. The suspension handles the rough and smooth quite well. There is minimal vertical movement and since the suspension is on the softer side, you get some amount of body roll while cornering. The steering is light offering easy manoeuvrability in the city and it weighs up quite well as you gain speed to instil confidence. Also, you can make it more weighty with the Sport driving mode. Feedback offered is good and the Kodiaq maintains its line neatly while pushing through the corners. Braking performance is excellent as the 7-seater sheds speed quickly and the pedal bite is ideal.
