Farming Monthly National September 2016 | Page 58

| Motors The new ŠKODA KODIAK At 4.70 m long and with up to seven seats and the largest boot in its class, the ŠKODA Kodiaq is the brand’s first large SUV. From early 2017,ŠKODA’s latest model will showcase all of the brand’s strengths: characterful design, extraordinary interior space and innovative technology. ith the ŠKODA Kodiaq, we are striking out in a new direction and opening up new markets,” says ŠKODA CEO Bernhard Maier. “With our first large SUV, we are conquering a new segment for the brand – and new customer groups. Our new addition to the ŠKODA model range is truly as strong as a bear: it makes the brand even more attractive thanks to its concept, striking design and as the first ŠKODA that has the option of always being online and thereby offering more comfort, safety and real-time information.The ŠKODA Kodiaq is at the forefront of ŠKODA’s extensive SUV campaign.” ŠKODA Board Member for Technical Development, Christian Strube, added, “The ŠKODA Kodiaq offers all of our brand’s strengths: well-thought-out functionality, superior interior space and excellent value for money. The largest boot compared to the competition and the optional third row of seats alone make our new SUV the ideal companion for day-to-day demands. And when it comes to driver assistance systems, infotainment and connectivity, the ŠKODA Kodiaq proves ŠKODA’s innovative capabilities, offering the W technology of higher classes and therefore putting itself at the top of its segment.” Boot With a volume of 720 to 2,065 l (5-seater with the rear seats folded down), the ŠKODA Kodiaq offers the largest boot within its class and if the optional folding passenger seat is chosen, the SUV can transport items up to 2.80 m long. An electrically operated tailgate is available, and can (as an optional extra) be opened with the firm’s virtual pedal system. The ŠKODA Kodiaq with the TDI/DSG/4×4 drivetrain can tow a trailer weighing up to 2.5 t with an electrically retractable tow bar. Engines Five powertrains, two TDI and three TSI engines, make up the engine range at the launch of the ŠKODA Kodiaq. They have capacities of 1.4 and 2.0 l, and power output ranges from 92 kW (125 PS) to 140 kW (190 PS). The diesel and petrol engines feature turbocharged direct injection and fulfil EU6 emission standards. All engines feature a Stop-Start system, brake energy recovery and a powerful thermomanagement system, contributing to low consumption. The 2.0 TDI is available in two versions. The first version generates 110 kW (150 PS) and 340 Nm. The top-of-the-range 58 | Farming Monthly | September 2016 version delivers 140 kW (190 PS) and 400 Nm. On average, the entry-level TDI consumes 5.0 l of diesel (56.5 mpg and 131 g CO2/km) per 100 km. The most powerful diesel engine accelerates the large SUV from 0-100 km/h in 8.6 s and reaches a top speed of up to 130 mph. The range of petrol engines consists of two 1.4 TSI engines and one 2.0 TSI. Transmission The ŠKODA Kodiaq is available with various transmission technologies. Depending on the engine, there is a 6-speed manual gearbox or DSG transmissions with six or seven speeds. The new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is making its debut in a ŠKODA and has been designed for powerful engines with torque of up to 600 Nm. The DSG transmission is very compact and provides quick and comfortable gear changes. The all-wheel-drive system with electronic control is available for most engine variants. It delivers a big increase in traction, stability and driving safety – even off-road. The centrepiece of the all-wheel drive is an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch which works intelligently and quickly. The control unit constantly calculates the ideal driving torque for the rear axle; loss of traction is virtually eliminated due to a control system that is dependent on driving status and when in overrun or at low load, drive is via the front axle, which saves fuel. Chassis The MacPherson front struts consist partially of aluminium; the steel four-link rear axle absorbs the longitudinal and transverse forces separately. The power steering, using an efficient electromechanical drive, ensures exact contact with the road and works in close harmony with several assistance systems in the ŠKODA Kodiaq. The brakes – with large ventilated brake discs at the front – are strong and stable. When cornering quickly, the electronic differential lock XDS+, which is a function of the Electronic Stability Control (ESC), makes handling even smoother and safer for both front- and all-wheel drive. As an optional extra, ŠKODA is making Driving Mode Select available in its large SUV. It allows the driver to adjust the operation of the engine and DSG management, power steering, air conditioning and other systems in Normal, Eco, Sport and Individual modes. The all-wheel-drive versions also offer Snow mode, which adapts the operation of the ABS, ASR and ACC (if fitted) systems, as well as the engine management and electronically controlled, all-wheel, multi-plate clutch to slippery road conditions. Adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) is also available as an option, and is integrated into Driving Mode Select. Using DCC, the driver can choose between Comfort, Normal or Sport modes. Off-road mode can be selected by the simple touch of a button. Here, the chassis, engine management and brakes adjust their operation specifically to rough terrain. This mainly involves pulling away, traction and deceleration. In off-road mode, Hill Descent Assist helps the driver to safely master driving downhill over rough terrain by braking appropriately. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk