In partnership with Auto Trader
Used test: Skoda Kodiaq vs Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace interiors
If you're after a reasonably priced seven-seat SUV, a used Skoda Kodiaq or VW Tiguan Allspace might already be on your radar. But which one should you buy?...
Interiors
Driving position, visibility, build quality, practicality
The Skoda Kodiaq gives you an even higher and mightier driving position than the already commanding one in the VW Tiguan Allspace. It's easy to get comfortable behind the wheel of either car, thanks to plenty of adjustments available in the seat and steering wheel.
With relatively thin pillars all around – the Kodiaq's are slightly thinner – these cars offer good visibility, which is a relief considering their sizes. Both cars get standard-fit rear parking sensors, too, although it's a shame front parking sensors and a rear-view camera came at an extra cost to the original Kodiaq owner, meaning used examples aren't guaranteed to have those features. The Tiguan got front sensors as standard, but we're still disappointed that it also left a rear-view camera on the options list.
The Tiguan is good for interior quality, displaying good quality materials in the places you touch most – the steering wheel, door handles and various switchgear. However, the rest of the interior is covered in rough, dark plastics.
Such plastics are present in the Kodiaq, but they're few and far between and, overall, the Kodiaq takes things from good to great, feeling thoroughly plush (to the point where it's comparable with interiors from premium brands).
As for build quality, both interiors feel equally solid. Another thing they share is having an 8.0in touchscreen infotainment system that's crisp, clear and responsive – you have Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone mirroring at your disposal, too.
Up front, only giants will notice the Kodiaq's added head and leg room. Most people are likely to appreciate the Kodiaq's extra space in the middle row, though, even if it can still stray into excess – everyone appreciates room to stretch. The third row is best left for children and small adults: the Kodiaq has slightly more leg room and the Tiguan slightly more leg room.
Both of these cars have sliding middle rows, meaning you can create more leg space for rear-most passengers should you need it.
With the rear-most seats folded down, the Tiguan's boot can swallow an impressive eight carry-on suitcases. The Kodiaq has an even bigger stomach, though: we managed to feed it nine suitcases.
