The Skoda Kodiaq L&K (Laurin & Klement) made its world debut at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show in March. The flagship trim has now been launched in India at INR 35.99 lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India).

The range-topping trim pays homage to founders Vaclav Laurin and Vaclav Klement. It carries minor visual tweaks with a gamut of additional features. On the outside, the Skoda Kodiaq L&K features a more elaborate chrome garnish on the front grille and rear bumper diffuser, silver roof rails, and ‘Laurin & Klement’ badges on the front fenders. A new 'Magnetic Brown' exterior paint shade is exclusive to the L&K variant.


The highlight of the interior is the Virtual Cockpit all-digital instrument cluster, a first for an India-spec Skoda model. Unlike the instrument console of the SUV's lower trim, which carries analogue instrumentation, the new flagship features a large digital screen that displays speed, drive range, navigation, et al. Furthermore, the Skoda Kodiaq L&K offers a  360-degree surround view system, which is courtesy of four wide-angle cameras placed at the car's front, back and on the ORVMs. Other highlights of the cabin include a piano black trim, L&K insignias on the seat upholstery, and aluminium pedals.

Mechanically, the SUV remains the same. It continues to draw power from a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel motor that produces a maximum power of 150 PS and a peak torque of 340 Nm. The motor comes mated to a 7-speed DSG transmission that sends power to all four wheels. The engine boasts an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 16.25 km/l.


The safety net of the Skoda Kodiaq L&K includes nine airbags, iBuzz Fatigue Alert, AFS (Adaptive Front light System), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESC (Electronic Stability Control), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), MBA (Mechanical Brake Assist), MKB (Multi Collision Brake), HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assist), ASR (Anti Slip Regulation), and EDS (Electronic Differential Lock). The new model is a direct rival of the VW Tiguan and locks horns with the lower trims of the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Mercedes GLA.