Can simple also be smart? Ask the Skoda Kodiaq.

Skoda may not be as familiar to local car buyers as its sister brand, Volkswagen, but the marque that hails from the Czech Republic is one of the oldest automobile companies alongside names such as Daimler, Opel and Peugeot.

2018 marks Skoda’s 123^rd anniversary, and in March this year, it made its return to Singapore with Volkswagen Group Singapore as the sole importer and retailer. As the first Southeast Asian market to have a direct dealership, customers have access to the latest model line-up straight from Mlada Boleslav, Skoda’s headquarters in the Czech Republic.

The Skoda Kodiaq, the brand’s first seven-seater SUV, is one of four models currently available in the Singapore market.

Bold and beautiful

The Red Dot Design award-winning Kodiaq strikes the perfect balance between functionality and style.

On the exterior, a bold radiator grille, prominent bonnet lines flanking the badge, LED daytime running lights and a panoramic sunroof are expressions of simple sophistication that reflect Skoda’s “Simply Clever” philosophy.

However, it is an SUV after all, and elements such as the pronounced square wheel arches, angular mud flaps and protective sill covers reveal its appetite for adventure.

Life is a breeze

The Kodiaq is ingeniously-designed around the driver and passengers to make driving and using the Kodiaq simpler and more intuitive, and its interior truly exemplifies this manifesto.

The cabin feels welcoming and well-built. The seats are comfortable, and there is plenty of legroom for everyone. Features such as wireless charging, smart phone connection via a SmartLink+ system and a colour touchscreen infotainment interface makes the in-car experience seamless and user-friendly.

Handy helpers

It is the little things that make a big difference in the Kodiaq.

Practical and thoughtful features like the capacious Jumbo Box storage compartment in the front armrest, two umbrella holders integrated within the front doors and the plastic strips that automatically extend to protect the door edges when they are opened take the stress out of driving and everyday life.

Confident and safe

The Kodiaq is available in two engine variants- the 1.4-litre 4X2 Ambition Plus and the 2.0-litre 4X4 Style.

Even on the entry-level model, driving features such as a rearview camera, park assist and blind spot detection with rear traffic alert are a standard.

The Style model comes with extra goodies such as an area view camera, adaptive cruise control and dynamic chassis control.

Simply smart

Simply put, the Kodiaq is an SUV designed with a human touch to serve human needs, and this is what makes it Skoda Smart.

The sharing of technology and parts from the Skoda and Volkswagen alliance means high-quality cars without the high price tag, something that consumers will surely appreciate.