The Skoda Kodiaq I 1.5 TSI 4×4 DSG 7-seat variant was produced from 2018 to 2019, representing a key offering within the first generation (Kodiaq I) of Skoda’s flagship SUV. Positioned as a mid-range option in the Kodiaq lineup, it aimed to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and practicality for families. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform (A7 variant), the Kodiaq was Skoda’s first foray into the seven-seater SUV segment, designed primarily for the European market but with increasing appeal in other regions. This specific configuration, combining a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG) and all-wheel drive, offered a compelling alternative to larger, more expensive SUVs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Kodiaq |
| Generation | Kodiaq I |
| Type | 1.5 TSI (150 Hp) 4×4 DSG 7 Seat |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 150 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0-62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp, 92.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 153.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA211 evo / DADA |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.9 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1629 kg (3591.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2286 kg (5039.77 lbs.) |
| Max load | 657 kg (1448.44 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 270 l (9.53 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2005 l (70.81 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4697 mm (184.92 in.) |
| Width | 1882 mm (74.09 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2087 mm (82.17 in.) |
| Height | 1659 mm (65.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2791 mm (109.88 in.) |
| Front track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Rear track | 1576 mm (62.05 in.) |
| Front overhang | 898 mm (35.35 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1009 mm (39.72 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 191 mm (7.52 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.338 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 19.1° |
| Departure angle | 15.7° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear wheels driven via clutch. |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission DSG |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 215/65 R17; 235/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 7J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Kodiaq 1.5 TSI 4×4 utilizes the EA211 evo series of engines, a Volkswagen Group mainstay. This 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine employs direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with intercooling. A key feature of this engine is its Active Cylinder Technology (ACT), a cylinder deactivation system that shuts down two cylinders under light load conditions to improve fuel economy. The engine produces 150 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1500-3500 rpm. The seven-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) is a dual-clutch transmission known for its quick and smooth shifts. The 4×4 system employs a multi-plate clutch to distribute power between the front and rear axles as needed, providing enhanced traction in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 TSI engine, paired with the DSG transmission and all-wheel drive, delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 9.5 seconds, and the top speed is 195 km/h (121 mph). While not a particularly sporty setup, the engine provides sufficient power for overtaking and highway cruising. The DSG transmission contributes to a responsive driving experience, with quick gear changes. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TSI variants, this engine offers a more relaxed and fuel-efficient driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system enhances stability and grip, particularly on slippery surfaces. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between fuel economy and usability, with a relatively tall final drive.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Kodiaq 1.5 TSI 4×4 typically came equipped with a generous amount of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESC, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a premium sound system. The seven-seat configuration was standard, providing flexibility for families. Optional extras included parking sensors, a rearview camera, and various driver assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Kodiaq I features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride quality. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with ESC (Electronic Stability Control). The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than outright sportiness, prioritizing ride quality over sharp handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Skoda Kodiaq 1.5 TSI 4×4 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and good fuel economy. The 1.5 TSI engine was considered a good compromise between performance and efficiency. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TSI variants, the 1.5 TSI offered a more affordable entry point into the Kodiaq range. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Fuel economy figures averaged around 35.6 US mpg (combined), making it a relatively efficient SUV for its size.
Legacy
The Skoda Kodiaq I 1.5 TSI 4×4 has proven to be a reliable and practical SUV in the used car market. The EA211 evo engine is generally considered durable, although regular maintenance is essential. The DSG transmission requires periodic servicing, including fluid changes. The all-wheel-drive system is robust and reliable. Overall, this variant represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and fuel-efficient seven-seater SUV. Its blend of practicality, technology, and affordability has contributed to its continued popularity in the used car market.
