Skoda has confirmed pricing for its first plug-in hybrid SUV in Australia, with the 2026 Kodiaq Select PHEV set to launch from $63,490 plus on-road costs.
The new model enters the market as a more affordable alternative to the Kia Sorento PHEV, which starts at $71,130, but Skoda’s electrified Kodiaq makes a notable trade-off by offering only five seats instead of the petrol model’s seven-seat layout.
The loss of the third row comes down to packaging, with Skoda integrating a 25.7kWh high-voltage battery beneath the floor. Even so, the Kodiaq PHEV still provides a sizeable 745-litre boot, although this is down on the 910 litres offered in seven-seat petrol grades when the third row is folded.
Performance comes from a combination of Skoda’s 110kW/250Nm 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine and an 85kW/330Nm electric motor, delivering a combined 150kW and 350Nm to the front wheels.
The hybrid setup enables a claimed 112km of electric-only driving range (WLTP) – more than double the Kia Sorento PHEV’s 55km figure, which is tested under the older and less-realistic NEDC standard.
The Kodiaq PHEV can also be charged at up to 50kW via DC fast charging, a capability the Sorento lacks, and supports 11kW AC home charging for quicker overnight replenishment.
Standard equipment mirrors the petrol Select grade, including a 13-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite navigation, heated front seats, tri-zone climate control, keyless entry, ambient lighting and a suite of advanced safety technologies.
Buyers can also option the $6500 Signature Pack, adding features such as Matrix LED headlights, a 360-degree camera, massage seats, heated second-row seats and a head-up display.
The arrival of the Kodiaq PHEV comes as Skoda expands its electrified lineup, with the Superb PHEV scheduled to join the range next year and the electric SUV line-up growing through the Elroq and updated Enyaq models.
The Kodiaq continues to be covered by Skoda’s seven-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty.
Drive.com
