The Kodiaq uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with direct injection. It produces a maximum of 204 hp between 4,500 and 6,000 rpm and 320 Nm of torque from 1,500 to 4,400 rpm.

This power goes to all four wheels (4x4) via a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission.

ARAI-certified fuel consumption for the Kodiaq is 14.86 kmpl. A 62-litre fuel tank reduces the frequency of fill-ups on long highway runs.

Inside the Kodiaq, the dashboard wears soft-touch materials and ambient mood lighting that extends into the footwells and doors. This is supported by acoustic glass and extra insulation, designed to keep the rear cabin quiet even at highway speeds.

From the driver's perspective, a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel with shift paddles offers controls for audio, phone, and driver-assist functions. Behind it sits a 26.03 cm Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster that lets the driver choose from multiple display layouts.

At the centre, the new-generation infotainment system uses a large touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while a dedicated 15 W wireless charging pad with ventilation keeps two phones topped up.

Regarding comfort, the front seats come with power adjustment, memory, heating, and thigh-support extenders, where higher trims add ventilation and an 8-programme pneumatic massage function.

To the back, the second-row slides and reclines, providing three individual headrests and an armrest with cupholders, while a third row adds genuine occasional seating.

Finally, in terms of practicality, boot space measures 281 litres with all seats occupied, grows to 786 litres with the third row folded, and reaches 1,976 litres with both rear rows folded flat.

Kodiaq has dimensions that stand at 4,758 mm in length, 1,864 mm in width and 1,679 mm in height across a 2,791 mm wheelbase.

From the front, the Kodiaq presents clean, sharp LED headlights with welcome animation and cornering function, flanked by a wide grille that can include a horizontal light strip.

The side profile shows strong shoulder lines, roof rails, and glossy black window framing, with a long 2,791 mm wheelbase that emphasises its road presence and 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/55 R18 tyres that fill the arches neatly.

At the rear, LED taillights with dynamic blinkers and welcome effect sit above a red decorative strip, while a spoiler with finlets and additional underbody guards complete the purposeful stance.

The Kodiaq is equipped with 9 airbags. For child safety, Isofix and TopTether child-seat mounts are fitted on the front passenger and middle-row seats. Additional aids include Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), among others.

Furthermore, hill start assist and hill descent control are also present to help navigate inclines. Meanwhile, higher trims add an advanced driver attention and drowsiness monitor, plus a pre-crash proactive passenger protection system.

Regarding crash tests, it received a 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests, scoring 89% in adult occupant protection and 83% in child occupant protection.

Similarly, it received a 5-star rating in the ANCAP crash tests, scoring 89% in adult occupant protection and 87% in child occupant protection.

However, no Global NCAP or Bharat NCAP rating is available for the Indian-spec model.

The Kodiaq’s closest rivals in its segment are the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster and Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line.

The Fortuner uses a body-on-frame chassis, offers a diesel engine, and has higher ground clearance. Whereas the Kodiaq is a petrol SUV with a monocoque platform and a seven-seat layout.

The Gloster offers a diesel engine, more features, and a larger cabin. The Kodiaq counters with a premium interior, a quieter cabin, and up to 1,965 litres of boot space with the rear seats folded.

The Tiguan R-Line shares the same 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and platform but is tuned for sharper responses. Conversely, the Kodiaq gets seven-seat capability, a sliding second row and greater overall practicality for larger families.