Skoda Kodiaq updated for 2026, now gets ADAS

The 2026 Skoda Kodiaq has been officially updated for the Indian market. This is a significant update because it marks the first time Skoda has introduced Level 2 ADAS in its India lineup. ADAS stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. These are smart safety features that help you drive more safely and can even prevent accidents. The new ADAS suite is available on the mid-spec Sportline and the top-spec Selection L&K variants.

The updated Kodiaq features a suite of 7 core assistance functions. The first is Adaptive Cruise Control, which automatically maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. You set your desired speed, and the car slows down or speeds up to keep a safe gap. The second is Lane Assist, which is a lane-keeping system. If you start to drift out of your lane without indicating, the car gently corrects the steering to bring you back.

The third is Front Assist, which includes autonomous emergency braking and collision warnings. If the car detects an imminent collision, it warns you and can apply the brakes automatically if you do not react in time. The fourth is Side Assist, which monitors your blind spots and assists during lane changes. A light in your side mirror warns you if there is a car in your blind spot.

The fifth is Rear Traffic Alert, which warns of approaching traffic while you are reversing. If you are backing out of a parking spot and a car or bike is coming, the system warns you and can even apply the brakes. The sixth is Exit Warning, which alerts occupants to approaching vehicles or cyclists when they are about to open a door. This prevents accidents where a cyclist hits an opening car door. The seventh is Adaptive Headlights, which use LED Matrix technology to optimise visibility. The headlights automatically adjust their beam pattern to avoid dazzling oncoming drivers while still illuminating the road ahead.

Beyond ADAS, Skoda has refined the features and colour palette for the 2026 model year. The Sportline variant now gains the 360-degree camera, which was previously exclusive to the top L&K trim. This camera gives you a bird’s eye view of the car, making parking very easy.

The Sportline also gets a revised front grille with an integrated LED light strip, which makes the car look more modern and premium. Some colours have been discontinued. Steel Grey is no longer available on the Sportline, and Red Velvet is no longer available on the L&K. The mechanical parts of the SUV remain unchanged under the hood. It is still powered by the 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine, which produces 204 horsepower. It is paired with a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox and a 4×4 all-wheel-drive system.

Official prices for the 2026 update have not yet been announced. However, estimates suggest a price hike of roughly ₹75,000 to ₹1,00,000 over the existing trims. The current Kodiaq range starts at ₹39.99 lakh for the entry-level Lounge variant. The updated Sportline and L&K variants will cost more.

If you are thinking of buying the 2026 Skoda Kodiaq, you should do so if you want a 7-seater luxury SUV with the latest Level 2 ADAS safety features. You should also consider it if you want a powerful 204 bhp turbo-petrol engine with smooth DSG automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive, if you want a spacious and premium cabin with features like a 360-degree camera and LED matrix headlights, and if you have a budget of around ₹40 lakh to ₹45 lakh. The Kodiaq is one of the most comfortable and premium SUVs in its class.

You should consider rivals like the Volkswagen Tayron, the Jeep Meridian, and the MG Gloster if you want a different design or a diesel engine option. The Kodiaq is petrol-only, while some rivals offer diesel engines.