Skoda has unveiled some technical details of its next-generation Kodiaq family SUV, which will get a plug-in hybrid drivetrain for the first time. The model is launching before the end of 2023 and should share its technical basis with the future Superb.

The second-generation Skoda Kodiaq will build on the practical strengths of its predecessor, with a 61 mm longer body (now 4 758 mm long), which not only adds trunk space (845 or 910 liters, depending on the version) but also adds room for a pretty big battery. Five-seat and seven-seat configurations remain available.

New hybrid powertrain

That’s because the Kodiaq debuts a brand-new plug-in hybrid drivetrain for the VW Group, which should make its way to other mid-size and larger PHEVs in the coming months and years. It’s now based around the more recent 1.5 TSI Evo engine, although peak power remains the same at 204 hp.

In the next-gen Kodiaq, the battery has a capacity of 25,7 kWh, which promises an all-electric range of “over 100 km”, according to Skoda. Charging can be done up to 11 kW at an AC charger and even up to 50 kW at a DC fast charger, which should recharge the battery in about 30 minutes. It’s unclear if the hybrid Kodiaq iV will be available as a seven-seater.

Coming soon

Other engines available at launch are a 1.5 TSI gasoline engine with 150 hp, a 2.0 TSI with 204 hp, and two 2.0 TDI diesel engines with 150 or 193 hp. The more powerful models have four-wheel drive, and a DSG automatic transmission is standard on every model.

The second-gen Skoda Kodiaq should launch later this year, followed closely by the technically related Superb, which should also get the new plug-in hybrid drivetrain. However, the current model already has a hybrid iV variant.