autoevolution
 

Why the Skoda Kodiaq Is a Better 7-Seat SUV Than the Kia Sorento and VW Tiguan

SUVs have replaced MPVs as the go-to 7-seat family cars because they are more versatile and rugged. The sales charts already tell us we have a winner in Europe, but it's time to see if this lines up with the opinions of UK reviewers.
Why the Skoda Kodiaq Is a Better 7-Seat SUV Than the Kia Sorento and VW Tiguan 2 photos
Photo: YouTube screenshot/Carwow
See Why the Skoda Kodiaq Is a Better 7-Seat SUV Than the Kia Sorento and VW Tiguan
This comparison video looks at the VW Tiguan Allspace, a relatively new arrival that's been criticized for looking too dull without its optional R-Line body kit and LED headlights. It's based on the same platform as the Skoda Kodiaq, which is no beauty queen. However, the Czech model does several things better.

We think Skoda got the design right. It's rugged white goods, perfect for the majority of buyers, who don't want to stand out. Of course, we were secretly rooting for the Kia Sorento from the beginning of the review, and we were right to do so.

Its got something cool going on. The exterior styling looks a bit more exotic, like an import while the other two are like familiar bratwurst brands. Rugged on the outside and rugged on the inside, the Kia Sorento has standard AWD, unlike the other two which come with FWD. Its only UK engine is a 2.2-liter diesel with almost 200 HP, which seems like the only major flaw of the car.

Carwow says it's rough and uneconomical, something we know from other models fitted with the 2.2, like the Stinger. The Sorento averages in the low 30mpg range while the Allspace was tested at almost 50 with its 150 horsepower 2-liter setup. The VW is also most like a car to drive every day, pointy and compact, with slightly better suspension than the Skoda model, though there's not much in it.

What wins this review for the Czech model is the fact that its rear-most seats are comfortable for adults while the quality of the materials is better than in the Tiguan. But we can see a world where you'd buy the Kia instead.

If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
About the author: Mihnea Radu
Mihnea Radu profile photo

Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories