Skoda Kodiaq vRS long-term test review: report 2
The Skoda Kodiaq vRS is the Czech brand’s first ever sports SUV. So, what’s it like to live with?...
The car Skoda Kodiaq vRS Run by Steve Huntingford, editor
Why it’s here To see if Skoda’s first attempt at a sports SUV is special enough to justify its big price tag
Needs to Offer a sporty drive and a premium feel without sacrificing the comfort and practicality that Skoda is more commonly associated with
Price £42,895 Price as tested £44,860 Miles 3968 Official economy 35.3mpg Test economy 39.2mpg Options fitted Panoramic sunroof (£1175), Canton sound system (£405) and rear-view camera including full LED rear lights (£385)
26 April – Getting to know you
A major test of any relationship is the first time you go away as a couple, and it’s a similar story with a new car; the first time you go for a properly long drive is when you really learn whether it’s going to be a pleasure or a pain to live with.
Fortunately, the Kodiaq vRS proved itself a fine partner during a recent trip to Yorkshire, because its sports seats are widely adjustable and very supportive, while the touchscreen infotainment system is easy to use and the optional Canton stereo makes a great sound.
True, the ride feels a little wallowy at higher speeds if you leave the suspension in Comfort mode, almost as if this setting just completely slackens off the dampers. However, switching to Normal (not Sport) tightens things up nicely without making things overly firm.
My only real complaint was the wind noise down the side of the car. I initially thought a dodgy door seal might be to blame, but senior reviewer Neil Winn tells me he noticed the same thing when testing another Kodiaq vRS as part of our annual Tow Car of the Year Awards.
Neil’s other complaint was that the augmented engine note, which is designed to convince you that there’s a V8 petrol engine rather than a four-cylinder diesel under the bonnet, can become a little droney when towing up hills. But, as someone who’s not into caravanning, this isn’t an issue for me.
Besides, while the Kodiaq vRS sounds like it's petrol powered, it certainly doesn’t drink like it; I averaged almost 40mpg during my trip to Yorkshire, which is actually more than the official figure (35.3mpg) suggests should be possible.
The Kodiaq vRS might be expensive to buy, then, but in terms of running costs, it’s proving a pretty cheap date.
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