By MotorOctan, Published: April 16, 2025

India’s premium SUV market has long been dominated by the Toyota Fortuner, a rugged icon known for its durability and commanding presence. Enter the 2025 Skoda Kodiaq, a second-generation contender from Europe that’s poised to disrupt the segment with its blend of luxury, technology, and versatility. As a contributor to Elite Vehicles—the UK-based YouTube channel with 55.2K subscribers covering elite cars like Porsche, Bentley, and now Skoda—I’ve dissected every facet of the Kodiaq to see if it can outshine the Fortuner. Priced around ₹45-50 lakh, this SUV offers a fresh alternative for urban families and adventure seekers alike. From its sleek design to its tech-laden cabin, here’s a comprehensive review of why the 2025 Skoda Kodiaq deserves your attention. Buckle up—let’s dive in!

Exterior Design: Sleek Sophistication Meets Practicality

The 2025 Skoda Kodiaq introduces Skoda’s Modern Solid design language, a departure from its predecessor’s softer lines. Measuring 4,758mm long (+59mm), 1,864mm wide, and 1,659mm tall, it’s slightly longer but lower than the Fortuner (4,795mm x 1,835mm x 1,855mm), giving it a sportier, more planted stance. Its butterfly grille—a Skoda signature—pairs with Matrix LED headlights (upgradable via software for adaptive beams) and C-shaped LED taillights for a premium look.

Key exterior highlights include:

• Panoramic sunroof: Extends across the roof, flooding the cabin with light—a feature the Fortuner lacks in base trims.
• 18-inch alloy wheels: The L&K variant’s aero-designed rims balance style and efficiency; Sportline variants offer sportier designs.
• Ground clearance: At ~192mm, it’s suited for urban roads and light trails, though it trails the Fortuner’s 225mm for off-roading.
• Velvet Red paint: Exclusive to the L&K trim, it’s vibrant yet classy—think understated luxury over the Fortuner’s bold chrome.

The Kodiaq’s aerodynamic profile (drag coefficient ~0.30, est.) contrasts the Fortuner’s boxy, utilitarian bulk. While the Fortuner screams “tough guy,” the Kodiaq whispers “refined elegance”—ideal for buyers who want sophistication without sacrificing SUV presence.

Interior Comfort: A Luxurious Cabin Built for Families

Step inside the Kodiaq, and you’re greeted by a premium cabin that rivals European luxury SUVs. The light-colored roof, soft-touch plastics, and brushed aluminum accents create an airy, upscale vibe—miles ahead of the Fortuner’s darker, more functional interior.

Seating and Space

The Kodiaq’s 7-seat layout (5+2 configuration) is versatile, with notable improvements over its predecessor:

• Second Row: Sliding seats offer generous knee room (~36 inches max) and headroom (~39 inches), fitting tall adults comfortably. Features like tablet holders, sunblinds, and Type-C ports enhance practicality.
• Third Row: Better than before—6-footers can sit without hitting the ceiling (headroom ~37 inches), though legroom is tight (~30 inches). It’s ideal for kids or short trips, earning a “5+2.5” label over the old Kodiaq’s “5+2.”
• Front Seats: Ventilated, heated, and massaging with thigh extenders—wide and supportive for long drives.

The Fortuner’s 7-seat setup offers similar second-row space but a cramped third row (legroom ~28 inches) and no sliding flexibility, making the Kodiaq the family-friendly pick.

Storage and Practicality

Skoda’s Simply Clever touches shine:

• 270L boot (third row up), expandable to 2,065L—enough for two small suitcases or a medium one, per my estimate.
• Door bins fit 2L bottles; hooks, bins, and a fixed boot light add utility.
• Sliding armrest with deep storage—sunglasses and gadgets fit easily.

The Fortuner’s 296L boot is slightly larger but lacks the Kodiaq’s clever nooks—like a screen-cleaning cloth or coat hooks—that make daily life easier.

Quality and Feel

The Kodiaq’s soft-touch dashboard and leatherette upholstery feel a notch above the Fortuner’s hard plastics and basic leather. However, some lower panels could be softer—still, it’s closer to a VW Tiguan than a Hilux-based Fortuner.

Technology and Infotainment: A Digital Cockpit That Impresses

The Kodiaq’s tech suite is a leap forward, blending usability with innovation—something the Fortuner struggles to match.

Infotainment System

• 13-inch touchscreen: Crisp, responsive, with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and navigation—brightness and menus are “easy to use,” per my analysis.
• Smart Dials: Control AC, drive modes, and volume—intuitive, unlike the Fortuner’s clunky buttons.
• 14-speaker Canton audio: Crystal-clear sound, outclassing the Fortuner’s 9-speaker JBL setup.

Driver Interface

• 10-inch digital cluster: Fully customizable—show maps, fuel data, or music with a swipe.
• Head-up display (L&K): Projects speed and alerts, a feature absent in the Fortuner.
• Type-C ports, wireless charging pads, and a dashcam port keep it modern.

Fortuner’s Tech

The Fortuner’s 8-inch touchscreen and analog-digital cluster feel dated—wired CarPlay, no wireless charging, and a basic rear camera can’t compete with the Kodiaq’s 360° view (though its resolution could improve).

The Kodiaq’s digital cockpit is a tech lover’s dream; the Fortuner’s setup suits those who prefer simplicity over sophistication.

Performance: Refined Power Meets Everyday Ease

Skoda Kodiaq: Petrol Precision

The Kodiaq launches with a 2.0L turbo-petrol engine:

• Power: 204hp, 320Nm—smooth and punchy (0-100kph ~8s, est.).
• Transmission: 7-speed DSG—crisp shifts, no lag.
• Drivetrain: AWD for grip in rain or gravel.
• Efficiency: 14.86kmpl (claimed)—sips fuel for a 1,805kg SUV.

Skoda plans a diesel (2.0L, ~200hp) and a 260hp RS petrol (5-seater) by 2026, broadening appeal.

Toyota Fortuner: Diesel Dominance

The Fortuner offers:

• 2.7L petrol: 164hp, 245Nm—sluggish (0-100kph ~12s).
• 2.8L diesel: 201hp, 500Nm—torquey (0-100kph ~10s).
• Transmission: 6-speed manual/auto, 2WD/4WD.
• Efficiency: 10-14kmpl—thirstier than Kodiaq.

Driving Experience

The Kodiaq’s MQB Evo platform delivers a plush ride—multi-link suspension smooths potholes, and Dynamic Chassis Control (future-ready) tweaks firmness (Eco, Sport, Snow). Its quiet cabin and light steering suit city commutes, though off-road capability is limited.

The Fortuner’s ladder-frame chassis feels stiff on roads but excels off them—4WD low-range and e-diff lock (GR-S) tackle rugged trails. Its heavy steering and noisy diesel lag in urban refinement.

Comparison

The Kodiaq’s petrol finesse and future options shine for city drivers; the Fortuner’s diesel grunt rules rural adventures.

Ride and Handling: Urban Comfort vs. Off-Road Grit

Skoda Kodiaq: City-Slick Comfort

• Ride: Soft at low speeds, firm in Sport—absorbs bumps better than the old Kodiaq.
• Handling: Nimble despite its size, 192mm clearance limits deep trails.
• NVH: Hushed cabin, thanks to laminated glass and insulation.

Toyota Fortuner: Rugged Resilience

• Ride: Bouncy on city roads; shines on rough terrain.
• Handling: Body roll in corners—built for straight-line stability.
• NVH: Diesel clatter and road noise intrude, unlike Kodiaq’s serenity.

The Kodiaq’s urban poise beats the Fortuner’s off-road bias—choose based on your drive.

Safety Features: Kodiaq’s Edge vs. Fortuner’s Reliability

Skoda Kodiaq: Tech-Savvy Protection

With a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, the Kodiaq includes:

• 9 airbags, ABS, ESC, hill hold/descent control.
• 360° camera, park assist, and six sensors (front/rear).
• Future ADAS—lane-keep, adaptive cruise—via software (radar-ready).

Toyota Fortuner: Trusted Basics

The Fortuner’s 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating offers:

• 7 airbags, ABS, VSC, hill-start assist.
• Rear camera—no 360° or ADAS.
• Trailer sway control for towing.

The Kodiaq’s advanced suite outpaces the Fortuner’s solid but simple safety—tech-first buyers pick Skoda.

Practicality and Ownership: Kodiaq’s Smarts vs. Fortuner’s Durability

Skoda Kodiaq: Family-Centric

• Boot: 270L (third row up), 2,065L folded—versatile for trips.
• Features: Sunblinds, Type-C ports, 12V socket, tablet holders.
• Warranty: 5 years/1,25,000km—class-leading.
• Maintenance: ₹59,900 for 4 years (est.)—competitive.

Toyota Fortuner: Built to Last

• Boot: 296L (third row up), ~1,800L folded—slightly less flexible.
• Features: Rear AC vents, 12V socket—bare bones.
• Warranty: 3 years/1,00,000km (extendable to 7 years).
• Maintenance: ~₹50,000 for 4 years—lower due to diesel efficiency.

The Kodiaq’s clever amenities suit families; the Fortuner’s bulletproof build wins long-term trust.

Pricing and Value: Premium vs. Accessible

Skoda Kodiaq

• Price: ₹45 lakh (Sportline), ₹48-50 lakh (L&K)—ex-showroom.
• Value: Matrix LEDs, massage seats, Canton audio for the cost.
• Resale: ~55% after 3 years (est.)—decent but trails Toyota.

Toyota Fortuner

• Price: ₹33.43-51.44 lakh—broader range.
• Value: Diesel 4WD, reliability for less upfront.
• Resale: ~65% after 3 years—gold standard.

The Kodiaq’s luxury-tech package justifies its premium; the Fortuner’s lower entry and resale edge appeal to budget-conscious buyers.

Competitive Landscape: Kodiaq vs. Fortuner and Beyond

• Toyota Fortuner: Diesel torque, off-road chops, ₹33-51 lakh—king of reliability.
• MG Gloster: 215hp diesel, ADAS, ₹38-43 lakh—more features, less badge appeal.
• Jeep Meridian: 170hp diesel, ₹31-39 lakh—premium but underpowered.
• Hyundai Tucson: 186hp petrol, ₹29-36 lakh—urban rival, no third row.

The Kodiaq’s European refinement and future RS/diesel plans give it an edge over Gloster’s value or Tucson’s compactness—only the Fortuner’s legacy rivals its pull.

Verdict: Is the 2025 Skoda Kodiaq Worth It?

The 2025 Skoda Kodiaq is a revelation—204hp petrol power, a luxe cabin, and cutting-edge tech for ₹45-50 lakh. It’s not perfect—third-row space and off-road limits trail the Fortuner—but its urban comfort, family smarts, and premium vibe make it a serious contender. The Toyota Fortuner fights back with diesel grunt, off-road mastery, and unmatched resale for ₹33-51 lakh.

• Buy the Kodiaq for: City elegance, tech, and family versatility.
• Buy the Fortuner for: Rugged trails, reliability, and budget flexibility.

The Fortuner’s not in trouble yet—but the Kodiaq’s stealing the spotlight. Which fits your vibe? Comment below—subscribe to Elite Vehicles for more elite reviews!

Specifications

• Skoda Kodiaq:
  • Price: ₹45-50 lakh
  • Engine: 2.0L turbo-petrol, 204hp, 320Nm
  • Transmission: 7-speed DSG, AWD
  • Mileage: 14.86 kmpl
  • Key Features: Matrix LEDs, 14-speaker Canton, panoramic sunroof
• Toyota Fortuner:
  • Price: ₹33.43-51.44 lakh
  • Engines: 2.7L petrol (164hp), 2.8L diesel (201hp)
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual/auto, 2WD/4WD
  • Mileage: 10-14kmpl
  • Key Features: 4WD, JBL audio, ventilated seats

Sources: YouTube (Toyota Fortuner in Trouble? New Skoda Kodiaq is here); market data from CarDekho, V3Cars.
Follow Elite Vehicles: youtube.com/@EliteVehicles