Skoda Kodiaq PHEV Launches in Australia With Long EV Range and Clear Compromises

Overview

• Australian first-drive reviews published Thursday confirm Skoda’s Kodiaq Select PHEV pricing at $63,490 before on-roads or $68,990 drive-away along with the brand’s headline specs.
• The plug-in hybrid pairs a 1.5‑litre turbo petrol engine with an 85kW motor for 150kW and 350Nm, uses a 25.7kWh battery, claims about 110–112km of electric-only range, and supports 11kW AC and 50kW DC charging with a claimed 10–80% in about 25 minutes.
• Battery placement under the second row forces a five-seat, front-wheel-drive layout and deletes the third row, which increases everyday boot space but removes seven-seat and AWD capability.
• Test results show very low fuel use when you start with charge and plug in often, while hybrid-only driving used more fuel than the 1.9L/100km claim, and reviewers noted modest EV-only performance and traction limits in wet conditions.
• The petrol Kodiaq holds a five-star ANCAP rating and a PHEV-specific assessment is pending, and reviewers point to tough price pressure from cheaper seven-seat Chinese rivals despite Skoda’s seven-year warranty and solid standard kit.