For consumers seeking a European alternative to ladder-frame SUVs like the Fortuner, the Kodiaq offers a monocoque chassis, soft-riding comfort, muted luxury, and silky diesel refinement. Its Spartan cabin design, high-end materials, and extensive list of equipment ensured that the Kodiaq was the favorite among enthusiasts, particularly among city families and long-distance road travelers.
Although temporarily discontinued in 2020 due to the BS6 norms, the Kodiaq reappeared in 2022 with petrol variants, offering improved infotainment, a more responsive TSI engine, and a smoother DSG. With such combinations of variants, the used Skoda Kodiaq segment can be slightly confusing to a new purchaser. Check out our guide to get a detailed analysis so you can make the right choice.
Table of Contents
Best Age of Used Skoda Kodiaq to Buy
Like most premium SUVs, the Kodiaq experiences sharp depreciation in the first 2–3 years, which makes it an excellent candidate for second-hand purchase.
| Age | Approx Depreciation | Estimated Market Price |
| Brand new | — | ₹38.5 – ₹42 lakh |
| 1 year old | 15–20% | ₹32 – ₹36 lakh |
| 3 years old | 35–45% | ₹21 – ₹26 lakh |
| 4–5 years old | 50–55% | ₹17 – ₹22 lakh |
Older Skoda Kodiaq 2018–2019 diesel variants can often be found under ₹20 lakh. Petrol 2022 models (post-facelift) hover around ₹30–33 lakh. For buyers seeking value without stretching their budget, the sweet spot is to buy a Skoda Kodiaq diesel variant that’s around 3–5 years old with a full service history.
What to Watch Out For
Avoid models with incomplete records, signs of hard off-roading, or DSG issues. Always inspect the underbody for rust, check for regular oil changes, and request quotes for DSG clutch and mechatronic replacement if the mileage exceeds 60,000 km.
Best Used Skoda Kodiaq Variant to Buy
Kodiaq variants in India include:
- Style: The base but well-equipped model. It features 3-zone climate control, LED headlights, a powered driver’s seat, touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and all-wheel drive.
- Sportline: It caters to enthusiasts, featuring all-black interiors, a virtual cockpit, larger alloy wheels, and styling upgrades.
- Scout: A rugged-and-tough spin-off with modest off-road duty in mind, gets underbody skid plates, silver inserts, and a slightly higher ride.
- Laurin & Klement (L&K): The full-fat luxury model with Canton sound system, ambient lighting, ventilated seats, and powered tailgate.
Our Recommendation For Best Value
If you’re considering buying a used Skoda Kodiaq, we’d recommend the following variants based on your needs:
- Value for money: The Style variant offers all essentials at the best price point.
- Best experience: If your budget allows, go for the L&K to enjoy all creature comforts without compromise.
- Rare find: The Scout is great for bad roads, but harder to find in the market.
If your goal is long-term daily use with occasional road trips, the Style or Sportline variant strikes a balance between usability and cost.
Used Skoda Kodiaq Diesel vs Petrol
Diesel (2.0 TDI)
- Power: 150 PS, 340 Nm
- Transmission: 7-speed DSG
- Mileage: ~14–15 km/l highway
Pros: High torque, better efficiency, cheaper fuel
Cons: Slight turbo lag, BS6 discontinuation makes availability limited
Petrol (2.0 TSI)
- Power: 190 PS, 320 Nm
- Transmission: 7-speed DSG
- Mileage: ~11–12 km/l combined
Pros: Smooth and refined, quieter NVH
Cons: Lower mileage, expensive to run in the city
Verdict:
Choose diesel if you drive frequently or often take highways. Petrol works well for city-focused users who want low NVH and the latest technology.
Used Skoda Kodiaq Ownership Calculator
Annual Ownership Costs (Approx)
| Component | Yearly Cost (₹) |
| Periodic Service | 30,000 |
| Tyre Replacement (5 yrs) | 10,000 |
| Insurance Premium | 60,000–80,000 |
| DSG Service (every 40k) | 10,000–12,000 |
| Battery (5 yrs) | 2,500/year |
| Misc (wipers, fluids) | 5,000–7,000 |
Yearly average: ₹1.25–1.40 lakh
Fuel Costs (12,000 km/year)
- Diesel: ~₹92/l → ₹85,000
- Petrol: ~₹105/l → ₹1,15,000
Total annual cost =
- ₹2.10–2.25 lakh (diesel)
- ₹2.40–2.60 lakh (petrol)
Long-Term Ownership Tip
Skoda offers extended warranties and service packages that are transferable. Prioritize using models with these plans still active, as it significantly reduces surprise costs.
Upgrades for Used Skoda Kodiaq
If you’re planning to refresh or personalise your used Kodiaq, here are smart upgrade ideas:
Infotainment and Connectivity
- Retrofit wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay (₹20k–₹30k)
- Dashcam with night mode and parking surveillance
- Upgraded subwoofer or speakers for better audio fidelity
Comfort and Safety
- Add an ambient lighting kit or replace seat covers
- Reverse camera upgrade or 360-degree aftermarket system
- Rear-seat entertainment screen for family travel
Exterior
- Ceramic coating or PPF wrap for protection (₹30k–₹70k)
- OEM roof box for road trips
- Tyre upsizing from 17” to 18” for better stance (not Scout or Sportline)
Avoid fake accessories. Stick to OE or OE-compatible brands, cheaper ones may interfere with the ECU or drain battery over time.
Conclusion
Buying a second-hand Skoda Kodiaq all comes down to making priorities. If torque, economy, and effortless motorway cruising are your priorities, the diesel Style or Sportline version comes highly recommended. If refinement and modern technology are your priorities, the petrol TSI facelift would be the preferred choice. Just ensure the motorcar has been well-maintained, especially in terms of DSG-related components, and you will find a luxury SUV that remains rock-solid, comfortable, and secure.
FAQs
Q. Is the Skoda Kodiaq expensive to maintain?
A. Yes, compared to Japanese SUVs. But for a European premium SUV, that’s reasonable, given that you pre-pay for service packages or take well-maintained examples. DSG service and component replacement can be costly if left unattended.
Q. How many kilometers is too much for a used Kodiaq?
A. Anything that crosses the limit of 1.5 lakh km requires a thorough inspection. If the service history indicates regular maintenance (particularly oil, DSG, timing belt, brake fluid), even a 1.2–1.4 lakh km vehicle can stay strong for years.
Q. What problems should I check for before buying?
A. Check for oil leak signs around the engine bay, suspension rattle, DSG hesitation upon upshifts, and if the infotainment system freezes. Rust spots and paint bubbles are other warning signs, mostly in older vehicles.
Q. Can I get good resale value if I buy now?
A. Yes. The Kodiaq retains its value quite well if maintained at the appropriate time. Diesel versions are still in demand in minor cities. Petrol resale has improved now that buyers are seeking BS6-compliant engines.
Q. Is AWD necessary in the Kodiaq?
A. All the variants of the Indian Kodiaq are AWD standard. It’s perfect for rough roads from time to time. Don’t, however, confuse it with rugged off-roaders; it remains a soft-roader at its core.
