We love the Skoda Kodiaq here at Drivelife, and even gave it our Car of the Year award on its launch, it’s that good. With a model refresh for 2026 and a performance version thrown in, is it still as good?
Liam takes the Kodiaq RS on for a week to see if it’s worth of the ‘RS’ title.
2025 Skoda Kodaiaq – Model Range
| Variant | Engine | Power/Torque | Drivetrain | Seats | Price (approx.) |
| Kodiaq | 1.4L Petrol | 110kW / 250Nm | FWD | 5 | $54,990 |
| Kodiaq+ | 1.4L Petrol | 110kW / 250Nm | FWD | 7 | $64,500 |
| Selection | 2.0L Diesel | 142kW / 400Nm | 4×4 | 7 | $78,300 |
| RS | 2.0L Petrol | 195kW / 400Nm | 4×4 | 7 | $95,000 |
What’s the colour range for the 2025 Skoda Kodiaq RS?
In New Zealand, Škoda generally categorises its paint options into three price tiers. While a “Solid” color is usually included in the base price, most buyers will pay a premium for the metallic or pearl finishes that suit the Kodiaq’s large body.
1. Standard / No-Cost Colors ($0)
- Steel Grey (Solid): This is the default “flat” grey. It is very popular for its modern, utilitarian look and carries no extra charge.
- Energy Blue (Solid): Occasionally offered as a base no-cost option on the entry-level Kodiaq trim.
2. Metallic & Pearl Effect (Approx. $1,000 – $1,200)
Most of the range falls into this category. These paints have a metallic flake or pearl finish that reflects light more dynamically.
- Moon White Metallic
- Graphite Grey Metallic
- Black Magic Pearlescent
- Brilliant Silver Metallic
3. Premium / Special Paint (Approx. $1,500 – $2,000)
These are multi-coat or “exclusive” paints that require a more complex application process.
- Velvet Red Metallic: This is Škoda’s flagship premium color. In the NZ market, it typically carries the highest surcharge (often $1,750+).
- Bronx Gold Metallic: A newer addition to the 2025 palette that often sits in this higher price bracket.
What’s the Competition for the 2025 Skoda Kodaiaq RS?
In the New Zealand market, the 2025/2026 Škoda Kodiaq maintains its reputation as the “sensible” European powerhouse, balancing premium refinement with a focus on unpretentious utility. While it officially competes in the large SUV segment against heavyweights like the Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Highlander, it occupies a unique niche by offering a slightly more compact, agile footprint without sacrificing interior volume—boasting a class-leading 910-litre boot (in 5-seat mode).
In contrast to its Korean rivals, which have leaned heavily into bold, futuristic styling and complex hybrid powertrains, the Kodiaq remains a more traditional, “all-rounder” choice, focusing on tactile ergonomics and “Simply Clever” features (like integrated door protectors and umbrellas) that resonate with Kiwi families. Market-wise, it is a critical high-volume model for Škoda NZ, often seen as the sophisticated alternative for buyers who want European build quality and driving dynamics at a price point that undercuts traditional luxury brands like Audi or BMW.
| Make / Model | Power / Torque (kW / Nm) | 0–100 km/h (sec) | Boot Space (L) | Price (NZD) |
| Škoda Kodiaq RS | 195 / 400 | 6.4 | 910 | $95,000 |
| Hyundai Santa Fe Elite Hybrid | 172 / 367* | 9.1 | 725 | $79,990 |
| Toyota Highlander Limited | 184 / 242 | 8.3 | 658 | $77,990 |
| Mazda CX-80 SP Hybrid | 209 / 450 | 7.2 | 687 | $74,990 |
| Kia Sorento Deluxe Diesel | 148 / 440 | 9.2 | 616 | $73,490 |
| VW Tiguan Allspace Style | 140 / 320 | 7.7 | 700 | $69,990 |
| Mitsubishi Outlander VRX PHEV | 185 / 450 | 8.2 | 478 | $66,990 |
2025 Skoda Kodaiaq RS – Specifications
| Spec Title | Kodiaq RS (TSI AWD) |
| Starting Price | $95,000 |
| Engine Type | 2.0L Turbo Petrol ⛽ |
| Engine Power/Torque | 195 kW / 400 Nm 💪 |
| Transmission Type | 7-Speed DSG (4×4) ⚙️ |
| Spare Wheel configuration | Space Saver Spare 🛞 |
| Kerb Weight | 1,860 kg ⚖️ |
| Length x Width x Height | 4758 x 1864 x 1657 mm 📏 |
| Boot Space (Seats Up/Down) | 340 / 2,035 Litres 📦 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 Litres ⛽ |
| Battery Capacity | N/A (12V System) 🔋 |
| Fuel Economy | ~8.7 L/100km 📉 |
| Energy Economy | N/A ⚡ |
| Towing Capacity (Unb/Braked) | 750 / 2,500 kg 🚜 |
| Turning Circle | 11.2 metres 🔄 |
| Warranty | 5 Year / 150,000 km 🛡️ |
