Skoda is a name that's on the lips of many respected car reviewers these days and it's more often than not because they're heaping praise on this born-again star of the car manufacturing world. It seems they're also very impressed with the Kodiaq Estate.
Skoda has built a good reputation over recent years when it comes to building practical cars. That's why it's surprising that the Kodiaq is their first large SUV. It's so big, it's available with seven seats. So, if you're planning on getaways for a big family maybe family friends and the dog too you really should take a long hard look at this Czech brand's offering. For drivers who aren't planning on taking half the street on holiday, the Kodiaq is also available as a five-seat version.
As well as space (top tip: there is lots of it), Skoda also lets you choose between front and four-wheel drive, as well as plenty of trim levels.
All the engines are gutsy enough to give plenty of power, even when you're fully laden. The Kodiaq also makes mincemeat of towing. It's got the power and the size needed to feel comfortable and balanced with a caravan hooked up behind. Unlike some other big SUVs, it doesn't have a tendency to sway around on the road like a ferry in a storm that's another plus point if you're planning on towing.
Big cars seem to feel safer than smaller cars and the Kodiaq estate matches up on paper too, scoring an impressive full five-stars in Euro NCAP crash tests. Safety kit includes automatic emergency braking which detects vehicles and pedestrians - and Isofix mounts on the middle row of seats that enable child seats to be secured.