Skoda Kodiaq Vs Toyota Fortuner: A Comparison of Top Variants for the Off-roading Enthusiast

Off the beaten track lies adventure. The off-roading enthusiast, for that reason, is looking only for the best off-road cars in India. Today, we look at the full-size SUVs Skoda Kodiaq and Toyota Fortuner, and find out what draws off-roaders to them.

In this article, we will share

• What an off-roading enthusiast looks for in a car
• Skoda Kodiaq vs Toyota Fortuner – an in-depth look at their top variants, features, and off-roading capabilities
• How to pick the right car for you

The Skoda Kodiaq got a new engine in its latest facelift, giving it more power and refinement. The Toyota Fortuner is already a veteran among SUVs in India. So, which one is the car to pick? Read on.

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What an Off-roading Enthusiast Looks for in a Car

Here’s what to look for in a car as an off-roading enthusiast:

• Drive system – What drive system does the vehicle have (FWD, AWD, or 4X4)
• Ground clearance – the car should have high ground clearance to tackle uneven terrains
• Low range gearing – the car should have low range gearing to allow the vehicle to drive at lower speeds while still operating the usable power band/RPM of the entire engine
• Locking differential – the vehicle should have differential locking for better traction when driving on soft, muddy or uneven surfaces
• Engine power and torque – the engine should have adequate power and generate enough torque
• Safety – safety features are important, especially when traveling through challenging terrains
• Comfort and convenience – the vehicle should offer good comfort, as well as convenience features

An off-roading enthusiast seeks a robust vehicle capable of tackling rugged terrains. Key attributes in top SUVs for off-roading include 4WD or AWD drive type, high ground clearance, torquey engine, and strong approach and departure angles.

Off-roading differential locking and low-range gearing further enhance performance on uneven paths. Safety features like ABS and hill hold assist are equally vital, ensuring control in challenging situations. A blend of power, stability, and rugged design make a vehicle suitable for off-roading adventures.

Why Toyota Fortuner and Skoda Kodiaq are Popular

Toyota Fortuner and Skoda Kodiaq are increasingly popular among offroading enthusiasts, owing to their impressive capabilities as off-road vehicles in India.

Toyota Fortuner’s 4WD variants, with high ground clearance and torque, demonstrate superior off-road capabilities. Its safety and performance features like ABS, traction control, and hill hold assist add confidence to the off-roading experience. The reputation of Toyota for reliability and rugged build quality is widely recognized.

Skoda Kodiaq brings European engineering into the off-roading scene, offering an elegant combination of performance and luxury. Its 4WD drive type, quick engine responsiveness, and well-designed approach and departure angles are essential for off-roading.

Added features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and an excellent interior design create a perfect blend of off-road capabilities and comfort.

The offroading community values these vehicles for their well-rounded package of performance, safety, and reliability.

Toyota Fortuner and Skoda Kodiaq Top Variants

For Toyota Fortuner, we have:

Variant	Price (INR) as on 8 August 2023
4X4 Diesel AT	₹ 41,22,000

For Skoda Kodiaq, we have:

Variant	Price (INR) as on 8 August 2023
L & K	₹ 41,39,000

Toyota Fortuner 4X4 Diesel AT

Toyota Fortuner 4X4 Diesel AT is a powerful option for off-roading enthusiasts. Equipped with a 4WD system, 201.15 BHP engine, and 223 mm ground clearance, it delivers excellent off-road capabilities. Additionally, hill hold assist, traction control, and manual seating adjustments add to the off-roading experience. The torque converter aids in smoother power delivery. You can also read our comparison of the Fortuner with MG Gloster for long-distance road trip lovers.

Skoda Kodiaq L & K

Skoda Kodiaq’s L & K variant provides a combination of luxury and off-road prowess. With a 4WD drive type, 187.74 BHP engine, and a ground clearance of 192 mm, it offers good off-road functionality. It’s further complemented by quick engine responsiveness and excellent visibility. The power seating adjustments ensure comfort on challenging terrains. If you’re a tech-savvy gadget lover, you can check out how the Kodiaq compares with Hyundai Tucson.

Our Pick for the Best Variant among Toyota Fortuner and Skoda Kodiaq for Off-roading Enthusiasts

Among the variants, the Toyota Fortuner 4X4 Diesel AT stands out as the best option for off-roading enthusiasts. Its higher ground clearance, significant engine power, and torque make it more suited for rugged terrains.

Though Skoda Kodiaq L & K offers quick engine responsiveness and luxurious comfort, Toyota Fortuner excels in essential off-roading attributes. Toyota’s reputation for building resilient and reliable vehicles adds to its appeal.

The Fortuner’s design, engineered specifically for off-roading, ensures a thrilling yet secure adventure. We have also compared the Fortuner with Jeep Meridian for off-roading enthusiasts.

The Top Variants Ranked

1. Toyota Fortuner 4X4 Diesel AT
2. Skoda Kodiaq L & K

Attributes	Toyota Fortuner 4X4 Diesel AT	Skoda Kodiaq L & K
ABS	Yes	Yes
Drive Type	4X4	AWD
Engine – power (BHP)	Yes	Yes
Ground clearance (mm)	Yes	Yes
Hill Hold assist	Yes	Yes

How to Pick the Right Car for You

• Toyota Fortuner 4X4 Diesel AT offers superior ground clearance, powerful engine, 4WD system, and reliable safety features. It’s well-suited for serious or extreme off-roading.
• Although slightly behind in ground clearance, the Skoda Kodiaq L & K offers luxury, quick engine responsiveness, and excellent visibility. A great choice for those who want comfort along with off-roading capabilities.

In conclusion, both variants offer robust packages for offroading enthusiasts. Toyota Fortuner’s variant is more rugged, while Skoda Kodiaq offers a balance of luxury and capability. Selection would depend on the individual’s preference for performance or comfort. Both vehicles ensure thrilling off-roading experiences.

If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.

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