@ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Skoda Kodiaq vs VW Golf Variant – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – Skoda Kodiaq or VW Golf Variant?

Kodiaq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Choosing Your Next Ride: Skoda Kodiaq vs VW Golf Variant

When it comes to choosing a reliable and performance-oriented car, the Skoda Kodiaq and VW Golf Variant are compelling options in their respective segments. While one is a robust SUV perfect for adventurous journeys, the other is a versatile wagon ideal for urban and suburban commutes. Let’s delve into the technical details and innovations these two popular models offer.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Performance and Power

The Skoda Kodiaq stands out with its range of engine options, including plug-in hybrid, petrol mild-hybrid (MHEV), diesel, and petrol variants. With power outputs ranging from 150 to 265 HP, the Kodiaq can offer dynamic performance across different terrains. It features a dual-clutch automatic transmission and is available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations.

On the other hand, the VW Golf Variant offers petrol MHEV, petrol, and diesel engine types. Its power spectrum ranges from 116 to 333 HP, making it versatile for various driving needs. It provides the convenience of both automatic and manual drive, enhancing the driver’s experience with responsive dual-clutch technology.

Kodiaq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Fuel Efficiency and Emissions

The Skoda Kodiaq showcases impressive fuel efficiency, especially with its plug-in hybrid variant consuming as low as 0.4 L/100 km. Its electric range extends up to 123 km, powered by a 19.7 kWh battery, which is commendable for eco-conscious drivers. The Kodiaq’s CO2 efficiency class spans B to G, allowing for environmentally-responsible driving.

Meanwhile, the Golf Variant offers moderate fuel consumption rates ranging between 4.4 to 8.5 L/100 km depending on the engine chosen. With CO2 outputs from 115 to 194 g/km, it maintains a commendable balance between performance and environmental consciousness, categorized under efficiency classes D to G.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Interior Comfort and Storage

Interior space is a remarkable advantage of the Skoda Kodiaq, providing seating for five and a massive trunk capacity of up to 910 L. Its versatile interior design can cater to a variety of passenger and cargo needs, making it an excellent choice for families and adventurers alike.

The VW Golf Variant also seats five passengers and offers a generous trunk capacity of 611 L. Its compact yet spacious design ensures comfortable travel, making it apt for both everyday commutes and longer journeys.

Kodiaq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Dimensions and Design

The Kodiaq’s robust dimensions reflect its SUV stature with a length of 4761 mm, width of 1864 mm, and a height reaching up to 1683 mm. Its imposing build is complemented by advanced driver assistance and safety features, ensuring a safe driving experience.

Conversely, the Golf Variant is tailored for agility and style in urban landscapes. With a length of 4631 mm, width of 1789 mm, and height of 1487 mm, it's sleek and efficient. Its design promises not just convenience in navigation but also an aesthetically pleasing drive.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between the Skoda Kodiaq and the VW Golf Variant comes down to lifestyle needs and preferences. The Kodiaq, with its spaciousness and advanced hybrid technology, appeals to those seeking a versatile and eco-friendly SUV. On the other hand, the Golf Variant offers a perfect blend of performance and practicality for those inclined towards a sophisticated wagon. Both models showcase remarkable technical prowess and innovation, setting a high standard in their classes.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Kodiaq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

VW Golf Variant has a convincingly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 26100 £, while the Skoda Kodiaq costs 36800 £. That’s a price difference of around 10710 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Skoda Kodiaq manages with 0.40 L and is therefore clearly more efficient than the VW Golf Variant with 4.30 L. The difference is about 3.90 L per 100 km.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the VW Golf Variant has a clearly perceptible edge – offering 333 HP compared to 265 HP. That’s roughly 68 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Golf Variant is clearly perceptible quicker – completing the sprint in 4.80 s, while the Skoda Kodiaq takes 6.30 s. That’s about 1.50 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Golf Variant performs minimal better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Skoda Kodiaq tops out at 231 km/h. The difference is around 19 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: VW Golf Variant pulls barely noticeable stronger with 420 Nm compared to 400 Nm. That’s about 20 Nm difference.

Kodiaq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, VW Golf Variant is clearly perceptible lighter – 1366 kg compared to 1684 kg. The difference is around 318 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Skoda Kodiaq offers distinct more room – 910 L compared to 611 L. That’s a difference of about 299 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Skoda Kodiaq performs clearly perceptible better – up to 2105 L, which is about 463 L more than the VW Golf Variant.

When it comes to payload, Skoda Kodiaq barely noticeable takes the win – 563 kg compared to 547 kg. That’s a difference of about 16 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Skoda Kodiaq proves to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Skoda Kodiaq is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £36,800
Kodiaq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard

Skoda Kodiaq

  • Engine Type : Plugin Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 265 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 0.4 - 8.2 L
  • Electric Range : 113 - 123 km

Skoda Kodiaq

5 (1)
rate

The Skoda Kodiaq blends sensible practicality with surprising style, so families and weekend adventurers get roomy comfort without looking like a moving van. It feels calm and composed on the road, packs clever storage and user-friendly tech, and manages to deliver a near-premium vibe without the pretension.

details

VW Golf Variant

The Golf Estate packs Volkswagen's familiar poise into a practical, grown-up estate that quietly makes everyday life easier without shouting for attention. It's clever, comfortable and roomy enough for weekend kit or family chaos, offering smart packaging and refined manners that make it a sensible and surprisingly stylish choice for buyers who need space but don't want a van.

details
Skoda Kodiaq
VW Golf Variant
Kodiaq @ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard
Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
36800 - 49600 £
Price
26100 - 48700 £
Consumption L/100km
0.4 - 8.2 L
Consumption L/100km
4.3 - 8.2 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
113 - 123 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
9 - 186 g/km
co2
114 - 185 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 58 L
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 55 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Estate
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1684 - 1970 kg
Curb weight
1366 - 1621 kg
Trunk capacity
745 - 910 L
Trunk capacity
611 L
Length
4758 - 4761 mm
Length
4631 - 4651 mm
Width
1864 mm
Width
1789 mm
Height
1663 - 1683 mm
Height
1462 - 1487 mm
Max trunk capacity
1945 - 2105 L
Max trunk capacity
1624 - 1642 L
Payload
460 - 563 kg
Payload
489 - 547 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 265 HP
Power HP
116 - 333 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.3 - 9.7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.8 - 10.5 s
Max Speed
205 - 231 km/h
Max Speed
202 - 250 km/h
Torque
250 - 400 Nm
Torque
220 - 420 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
110 - 195 kW
Power kW
85 - 245 kW
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, F, G, E
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, G, F, C
Brand
Skoda
Brand
VW
What drive types are available for the Skoda Kodiaq?

The Skoda Kodiaq is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.