GETTING CONNECTED
Newcomer boasts more cutting-edge technology than any previous Skoda. We take a look at what buyers can expect
SKODA has long had a reputation for making spacious, well built, great-value cars. But in 2017, buyers expect an array of tech, too – and on that front the Kodiaq delivers as the most cutting-edge, connected machine the brand has produced to date.
The model acts as a marker, too, because as head of electric/electronics development Reiner Katzwinkel told us, a lot of the new tech will filter down to the rest of Skoda’s range. “Now we will bring it to our smaller cars; the Octavia and the replacement for the Yeti,” he stressed.
But unlike with some manufacturers, it’s not simply a case of throwing as much technology as possible at the Kodiaq. “We do it step by step. We are waiting, so when the tech is reachable in terms of cost, it will go in the cars,” explained Katzwinkel. “The issue is that we want to keep the cars affordable.” So, what does the Kodiaq have to offer? We take a look at some of the highlights.
TOUCHSCREENS WITH four separate systems available in Uk-spec models, Skoda claims there’s an infotainment package available to suit all budgets. Swing kicks things off with a 6.5-inch screen, DAB, Smartlink+, USB and SD card ports plus Bluetooth. It’s available on S models.
It’s followed by Bolero, which has an eight-inch screen and adds four speakers. This comes in SE trim, although buyers at this level have the option to upgrade to Amundsen, which adds navigation. SE L brings the eight-inch Columbus system, which adds Wifi, Infotainment Online and a DVD drive. Edition also gets Columbus, and adds wireless charging.
SKODA CONNECT THIS is the banner under which Skoda is heralding its new tech, and it consists of three packages. Infotainment Online takes information and nav services to the next level for the brand, while Care Connect allows owners to control certain functions via their smartphone. Emergency Call is geared towards maximising safety. INFOTAINMENT ONLINE KATZWINKEL hailed this advanced connectivity offering, available on the Columbus package, as a “real breakthrough for Skoda” – and with very good reason. The breadth of information available is significant.
Online traffic data, for example, allows the Kodiaq to plot the shortest route possible to your destination, while you can request details of specific styles of restaurants, for example, or configure routes on your PC and then send them to your Skoda.
CARE CONNECT THIS tech is self-explanatory; it allows you to better look after your Kodiaq by being better connected, via the Skoda Connect app. If you’re in unfamiliar territory, for example, it can help you find where you’ve parked. You can also set limits as to where and how other drivers use the Kodiaq. For example, owners may want to ensure children don’t drive to certain destinations or at excessive speeds. If the kids break the ‘rules’, a message is sent via smartphone.
You can also specify a certain dealership and receive insight into the car’s mechanical condition and notifications of the service schedule. “It’s all designed to make ownership easier,” said Katzwinkel.
EMERGENCY CALL IF the worst happens, it’s reassuring to know the Kodiaq can intervene. In an accident, cars fitted with this tech will automatically contact a call centre with key information such as the number of passengers, the vehicle location and the direction of travel. The emergency services are alerted in parallel, and contact is maintained with the vehicle until an ambulance or police are on the scene.
SMARTLINK+ THIS feature comes fitted as standard on all models, and allows you to access your smartphone’s functions via the Kodiaq, which mirrors your phone on its central display. Apple Carplay, Android Auto and Mirrorlink are all supported, meaning that the vast majority of today’s most popular phones are compatible.
When the tech is reachable in terms of cost, it will go in other cars in the Skoda range REINER KATZWINKEL Tech boss, Skoda