Volkswagen Tiguan Mk3 v Skoda Kodiaq Mk2

A best-seller in Volkswagen's right, the Tiguan is now in its third generation and there's a lot to talk about the latest version of one of the best-selling crossovers in Europe...or so they said.

2024 Volkswagen Tiguan

Starting at 38,250 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new third-generation Volkswagen Tiguan is the latest evolution of Volkswagen's smash-hit crossover that loves to pick fights against the Japanese opposition, mainly the Mazda CX-5 that made the Tiguan taste defeat while towing caravans.

Beginning with the design, the third-generation Tiguan can be easily mistaken for the Touareg NF, so it's a hand-me-down from its big brother. Throwback aside, the use of the MQB evo platform resulted in a slightly increased dimension compared to its previous model. It's 3cm longer than the old model while the height and the width remain almost identical.

2024 Volkswagen Tiguan interior

As expected, the new interior employs the minimalist approach like most Volkswagens today. While the button-packed steering wheel is the tip of the iceberg, it also features a Digital Cockpit comprising a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 15-inch central infotainment display touchscreen that controls the infotainment, air conditioning, and the show-off ambient lighting. It even comes with HUD, Driving Experience Control, and the annoying IDA voice assistant.

With the second-row seats present, the Tiguan can carry up to 652 liters of boot space, an improvement from the previous model. However, with the rear seats folded down, it has 1650 liters of boot space. Ah, the irony.

2024 Volkswagen Tiguan

Thanks to the MQB evo platform, the all-new Tiguan behaves slightly better than the previous model. With the available 4MOTION 4-wheel-drive system and Dynamic Chassis Control, it can do slightly more. Should the Mazda CX-5 take note of the Tiguan's latest improvements? Who knows?

While right-minded Europeans should shy away from the 2.0 TDi variant because dieselgate, of course, the Tiguan can be fitted with the 1.5 eTSi OPF, 1.5 eHYBRID OPF, and the 265PS 2.0 TSi OPF exclusive for the R-Line variant. With the entry-level variant having 6.2 l/100 km of fuel economy based on WLTP standards, the range-topper of the Tiguan is the plug-in hybrid 272PS 1.5 eHybrid OPF. Mated with the 6-speed DSG, it does 0-100kph in 7.2 seconds and has a top speed of 215kph. Running on electric power alone, it can go up to 112km of driving range.

As always, the all-new Tiguan is packed with numerous safety features such as a lane change system, autonomous emergency braking and a lane keeping system, rearview camera system, dynamic road sign display, available park assist pro with remote parking capability, and the available trailer assist.

The all-new Tiguan may have bore the looks of its big brother from the previous decade but with the most advanced features offered and a wide array of powertrains available, including the range-topping PHEV variant with up to 272PS of power, looks it like it has the fighting chance to take down the aging Mazda CX-5 by a long shot...or perhaps some other crossover bearing similar nooks and crannies from this?

2024 Skoda Kodiaq

2024 Skoda Kodiaq

Hailing from Czechia, this is the all-new second-generation Skoda Kodiaq. Priced at 980,000 Kč, which in Euro terms, is more expensive than its Tiguan relative, the all-new Kodiaq eschews the sharp looks from the previous model in favor of a rounder one with the rearview easily mistaken for a Volkswagen ID.5 or certain Lincoln crossovers from the past decade.

2024 Skoda Kodiaq interior

Unlike the Tiguan, which is offered in five-seater only, the all-new Kodiaq is offered with the choice of a five-seater or a seven-seater with up to 2105 liters of boot space with the passenger seats folded down. Not only it's more spacious than the previous Kodiaq, but it's even more spacious than its Tiguan cousin.

Under the hood, the all-new Kodiaq is powered by a choice of a 1.5L TSi engine with mild-hybrid and 7-speed AT, a 2.0L TDi engine with the same gearbox, and the 204PS 1.5L TSi PHEV with 6-speed AT. It's their range-topper, of course, and with the PHEV powertrain mentioned, it does 0-100kph in 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 210kph, which is 5kph less than the most powerful Tiguan mentioned above.

Like the Tiguan, the all-new Kodiaq is packed with numerous safety features such as a lane change system, autonomous emergency braking and a lane keeping system, rearview camera system, dynamic road sign display, and others.

There you have it, the latest versions of the crossovers that made huge gains in Mainland Europe. The all-new Tiguan and the all-new Kodiaq have several differences despite bearing the same platform but these crossovers prove that their journey continues. Like them or not, here they come.

Photo: Volkswagen/Skoda

Škoda Superb Mk4

The flagship of the Skoda family, the Superb, is now on its fourth generation, and it promises to be the most Superb ever made.

2024 Skoda Superb Combi

2024 Skoda Superb

With prices starting at 1,035,000Kč plus additional costs, the fourth-generation Skoda Superb is offered in saloon and Combi body styles, proving that this range is not down without a proper fight with its ever-diminishing race of executive saloons.

2024 Skoda Superb Combi interior

Beginning with the design, the all-new Superb dons the current signature Skoda face first debuted in the Scala while being the first production Skoda to don the updated SKODA lettering. The first of the new chapter for this Czech carmaker in this age of new normal, as they said. While the taillights look like it was stolen from Maserati's dustbin, the conservative styling remains in the new model, be it saloon or Combi. Although the new model is longer than the old one, it's got less width, height, and wheelbase compared to it, probably for parking issues.

The interior has been revamped for the new model and because Skoda is part of the Volkswagen round table, you can expect the hopeless haptic touch panels at the steering wheel as well as the 13-inch touchscreen that controls infotainment, navigation, and smartphone connectivity, climate control, the CANTON audio system with thirteen speakers, heated and ventilated seats with massage function, easy entry function, and ambient lighting, among others. Spacing aside, the new model is still as comfortable as the previous Mk3 model despite the lesser wheelbase, and with the Combi variant, you can store up to 690 liters of boot space with the rear seats present. 1920 with the rear seats folded down. That's 30 liters less than the previous Superb Combi. What a whammy.

2024 Skoda Superb

At launch, the Superb is powered by a 2.0L TDi diesel engine which produces 150ps of power and 360Nm of torque. Mated to a 7-speed AT, it does 0-100kph in 9.3 seconds and flat-out at 222kph. Fuel economy is around 5.0L/100km and CO2 emissions at 130g/km. It will be joined by petrol-powered versions later on with the most powerful version using the 2.0 TSi engine with 265ps of power output.

Despite its questionable dimensions, the all-new Superb still drives like a luxury car, which is a fitting point for Skoda's flagship. Coupled with the new DCC Plus adaptive suspension with two independently controlled valves, faster damping adjustment, and a wide range of damping characteristics, it feels so alive on the road. Add 4x4 to the mix and it keeps on going even when wet, making it a cut-price Audi A4 if you catch my drift.

The Skoda Superb Mk4 features the latest assistance systems with new ones such as turn assist and anti-collision assist. Other systems carried over from the previous model such as assisted driving, lane change assistant, and Front Assist were updated.

Although it's now shorter compared to its predecessor, the fourth-generation Skoda Superb is proof that it's still standing in the face of the ever-diminishing race of executive saloons. Thank your Skoda overloads that they still made a saloon like this as well as the Octavia.

Photo: Skoda Auto

Skoda Enyaq iV Coupe RS

Launched last year, the first-ever Skoda Enyaq iV is an all-electric crossover that is more of a Czech equivalent of the WCOTY-winning Volkswagen ID.4. Now, let's say ahoj (Czech for hello) to the Enyaq iV Coupe RS, the Czech equivalent of, you guessed it, the Volkswagen ID.5 GTX.

2022 Skoda Enyaq iV Coupe RS

2022 Skoda Enyaq iV Coupe RS interior

Priced at 1,559,900 Kč plus additional costs, the Enyaq iV Coupe RS is more expensive to own than its ID.5 GTX equivalent, despite the fact that both of these juiced-up electric coupe crossovers belonged to the same Volkswagen Group family tree. Needless to say, the Enyaq iV Coupe RS is the only Enyaq iV Coupe you can buy at this moment in time.

To differentiate the coupe version from its normal equivalent, the Enyaq iV Coupe RS features a coupe-like silhouette unheard for a Skoda crossover, something that was learned from the Germans because the Germans first introduced the motoring world to the coupe utility vehicle with the original BMW X6, which shocked speedo boys when it was first launched. Anyway, this is smaller than the X6 but it's bigger than the ID.5 GTX, meaning there will be concerns about how to drive it on European roads because of its sizing and width that claimed to be too big on European roads. Still, the aggressive front view looks rather impressive for an electric car.

Although the Enyaq iV Coupe RS still possesses the minimalist dashboard and seating for five, just like the normal Enyaq, it's been given RS sports seats to give it a race car-inspired approach when drivers tucked in and go for a twirl. Being a coupe, it's less spacious than its normal equivalent due to its sloping roofline but with the rear seats present, it's more spacious than the ID.5 GTX. Sadly, it's less spacious than the ID.5 GTX when the rear seats are folded down. Still, it's more than enough to tackle everyday activities.

Just like the Volkswagen ID.5 GTX, the Enyaq iV Coupe RS features a 77kW battery pack and two electric motors powering all four wheels, making it a 4WD electric crossover capable of handling through tarmac, gravel, and snow, despite the fact that the bulk of its powertrain gave it a mild driving feel. The electric powertrain produces 299PS of power and 310Nm of torque, capable of hitting a 0-100kph time of 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 180kph. As for the driving range, the Skoda Enyaq iV Coupe RS is good for 504km in one full charge and it will take up to 35 minutes to reach 80% when plugged into a 135kw charging outlet. At home, it will take about seven and a half hours.

The Enyaq iV Coupe RS, like its normal equivalent, boasts a wide array of safety tech features including Proactive Crew Protect Assist and Travel Assist, not to mention the parking assistance included as well.

So, what do you think? Despite being costlier to own and slightly slower than the ID.5 GTX, the Enyaq iV Coupe RS can go further than the ID.5 GTX and because of its sporty character, it's better looking as well. Guess the new normal doesn't feel normal with this one, huh?

Available colors: Modrá Energy, Zelená Mamba, Bílá Moon metalíza, Modrá Race metalíza, Stříbrná Brilliant metalíza, Černá Magic metalíza, Červená Velvet metalíza, Šedá Graphite metalíza, and Oranžová Phoenix metalíza.

Photo: Skoda Auto

Skoda Fabia (4th Gen)

The commoners' Skoda, the Fabia, is now on its fourth generation and it promises to be the best Fabia ever made because of its newly improved dynamics thanks to its new platform, the design that fits the Simply Clever slogan, the new interior, and a host of safety features fit for commoners. Not for speedo boys.

2022 Skoda Fabia

With prices starting at 339,900 Koruna plus additional costs, the reasonably priced, fourth-generation Skoda Fabia marks a fresh new start on the commoners' Skoda, which is basically a Czech cousin of the Volkswagen Polo as most say. Digging through every nooks and cranny, it seems Skoda did a fantastic job revamping the Fabia to adapt to the new normal, starting with the design.

2022 Skoda Fabia

The massive horizontal grille, at first, can be easily mistaken for a BMW or a Kia, but because huge grilles are the new normal, you can't really tell. Putting aside its front face, the new Fabia is styled just like its big brother, the Golf-sized Scala. It's all in the family if you ask them.

2022 Skoda Fabia interior

Step inside, the new Fabia has gone to the minimalist interior route because minimalism is also the new normal and that's bad news for speedo boys behind the wheel because look at the touch screen, there are no buttons in it. At least, climate control still has dials in it, which is good for a city car like the Fabia. Lamenting on the dashboard with the buttonless touch screen aside, the new Fabia dons a digital instrumental panel akin to the Audi virtual cockpit. Speed, range, navigation, this instrumental panel has it all.

Thanks to the use of its MQB-A0 platform, a first for the Fabia, the new model is surprisingly roomier than the old model and more spacious in the boot as well because of its additional 50L boot capacity. With a bigger boot space to boot, the Fabia works on all walks of life, whether if it's for another courtesy visit to relatives, another day at work, special deliveries, or TNVS.

2022 Skoda Fabia

The all-new Fabia is offered with a choice of a fuel-efficient 1.0L MPI or a 1.0L TSI engine in different configurations. There are no diesel variants, of course, because today's Europe despises diesel because of you-know-what-and-why. Manual and DSG are offered, depending on the variant.

The most powerful version has a 1.0L TSi engine producing 110PS of power and 200Nm of torque. With the 7-speed DSG, it sprints from 0-100kph in 9.5 seconds and flat out in 205kph. Enough to embarrass a Toyota Yaris on the highway, of course. Those who are interested in fuel economy, meanwhile, should go for the cheapest version with the 1.0 MPI engine mated to a 5-speed MT because of its combined fuel economy of 20kmpl based on WLTP standards.

Back to the new Fabia's use of the MQB-A0 platform, this new platform gave this tiny little hatchback more character, meaning it's so much more fun to drive than the previous model. Coupled with the sports chassis, the Fabia possesses hot hatch levels of enjoyment without all the drama. Of course, you can opt-in for the Rough-Road package in case you're in a mood for sandblasting at the beach but that would be a cheese-fest for a front-wheel-drive hatchback that wants to be taken care of in the suburbs and the city centers of Europe, so just ignore the Rough-Road package.

Like the cars of today, the new Fabia dons a wide array of active and passive safety features, including the ones that were originally offered exclusively for luxury cars such as Travel Assist, Park Assist, Lane Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Side Assist, Front Assist with Predictive Pedestrian and Cyclist Protection, and Manoeuvre Assist. Coupled with up to nine airbags and you got yourself a high-quality city hatchback possessing high-quality levels of safety, whatever the reason.

The new Fabia truly adapts to the new normal with its new platform, the design that fits the Simply Clever slogan, the new interior, and a host of safety features fit for commoners. Like it or not, if you are the kind of person who wants a spacious city car but despises city crossovers, consider the new Fabia as your bet. The more your know.

Photo: Skoda Auto

Skoda Enyaq iV

All-original from the ground-up and not based on an existing Skoda model, the first-ever Skoda Enyaq iV electric crossover marks a fresh new chapter for the Czech carmaker as they begin their pursuit for electrification like every other carmaker doing their share in the new normal. Let's take a quick dive into what is known to be the Czech cousin of the Volkswagen ID.4.

2022 Skoda Enyaq iV

With prices begin at 1,089,900 Koruna plus additional costs, the Enyaq iV is similarly priced to its Volkswagen ID.4 cousin it was based on and when you compare these two electric crossovers, you can feel a slight difference between them except for the fact that it can go more than its original counterpart.

2022 Skoda Enyaq iV

But first, let's examine the design of the Enyaq from top to bottom. Being an SUV, most people would believe that it show bear some chunky hunk of beef like most heavyweight SUVs these days but for the Enyaq, it doesn't. It bears clean and sharp lines as well as its "Simply Clever" looks that show proof that it's a Skoda. From its faux grille, sharp headlights, side view similar to the Karoq, and the Stelvio-esque rearview, the Enyaq iV really takes shape and when compared to the VW ID.4, it's better-looking of course.

2022 Skoda Enyaq iV interior

2022 Skoda Enyaq iV interior

Because being high-tech is what the Enyaq iV is made for, the interior suffers the same minimalist problem as its ID.4 cousin and for speedo boys behind the wheel, this is agony city because they will find themselves struggling to adjust the volume as well as the air-con because of the touchscreen that serves as the root of all problems surrounding the Enyaq's interior. Agonizing the minimalist interior layout is, the spacing is where the Enyaq excelled from its VW counterpart. While it is shorter than the ID.4, the Enyaq is wider and has more boot space than its VW counterpart, so it's no surprise that this similarly priced electric crossover can edge its cousin out in terms of practicality despite the expense of height and wheelbase between them.

2022 Skoda Enyaq iV

At default, the Enyaq iV is a rear-wheel-drive crossover with an electric motor on the back, a layout similar to the Porsche 911. With such a layout, the Enyaq iV behaves in a spartan kind of way. Mild and tangy if you may. Add an all-wheel-drive variant to this crossover and it still bears that spartan driving manner. Not quite fun by crossover standards but it's getting somewhere.

The 60 and 80 are the available variants at launch with the entry-level 50 and the vRS variant coming soon. The 80 is the top pick of the Enyaq in its rear-wheel-drive variant, it has a range of 534km, but on the 80X variant, it has a 0-100kph time of 6.9 seconds. Although not a hot hatch as such, its performance levels feel like it. But let's leave it anyway because being an electric crossover that is in tune with the new normal, the Enyaq iV boasts a wide array of safety tech features including Proactive Crew Protect Assist and Travel Assist, not to mention the parking assistance included in the Enyaq.

Although not suitable for speedo boys behind the wheel because of the technology it bears that is both a blessing and a curse for those behind the wheel, the first-ever Skoda Enyaq iV is designed and built for the normal people who like an electric crossover that fits their new normal lives. It really is the vehicle built for the new normal and it really translates the "simply clever" slogan into action.

With such characteristics, the Enyaq iV heavily upsets the Volkswagen iD.4 in almost every way and because they're similarly priced, it's a one-sided choice that customers will have to think twice before owning one of these.

Photo: Skoda Auto

Fourth-generation Skoda Octavia

The Skoda Octavia has reached its fourth generation and looks like this new model proves that they want to stay with us despite crossovers mercilessly slowing its sales down. With the promise of a new emotional styling, more luxurious interior, fuel-efficient powertrains, and cutting-edge technology, the all-new Octavia really means business for the typical Czech salarymen.

Starting at around 493 900 Kč, the all-new Octavia puts luxury, practicality, performance, and tech in its spotlight with the pricing that is near the salaryman's reach. You can think of it as a BMW 3-Series on a budget because, well, it's the styling that explains a lot. Even though it dons Skoda's new signature look first seen in the Scala, a hard squint on the exterior design will make you tell that it's like an Audi A4 with the TT's front lamps and the nose of a regular BMW 3-Series. It's a luxury car on a budget, you can really tell and although some would call it serious, others will have second thoughts about the new look.

On the interior, this is where the real drama begins because the new Octavia's interior, like most today's tech-savvy cars, went to the minimalist route, which is bad news for speedo boys tempting to drive one. Look around and you couldn't find buttons for the volume and aircon because it's all in this touchscreen which explains a lot. While speedo boys are lamenting over the new model's minimalist interior, the comfort around it really makes a big statement on this new car. Because it's longer than the old one, the new Octavia can hold as much as 600 litres of boot space, which is not bad in liftback guise, but if you go for its Combi and its offroad-focused Scout sibling, you can store a lot more without explanation.

In its regular form, the new Octavia offers a healthy choice of petrol, diesel, and CNG engines and for the first time, it can be offered with the powerful and efficient 1.4 TSI iV plug-in hybrid powertrain which produces up to 150kw of power and while mated to a 6-speed AT, it can go from 0-100kph in 7.7 seconds and onwards to 220kph while fuel efficiency is a combined 1.2L/100km. The Scout, meanwhile, is offered only in 2.0 diesel with a 48v mild hybrid tech while mated to a 6-speed MT or a 7-speed AT, and on the high-performance RS variants, which starts at 889,900 Kč, it can be fitted with either a 1.4 TSi iV with 1.5L/100km of fuel economy, a 2.0 TDi which is the one to avoid in today's Europe, and the ultimate serving of the lineup which is the 180kW 2.0 TSi engine mated to a 6-speed manual that can get through 0-100kph in less than seven seconds and electronically limited to 250kph.

On the dynamics side, the new Octavia can be either more fun to drive as the old one or more comfortable to drive just by fiddling with different chassis options to go for including the Dynamic Chassis Control with Driving Mode Select. It's the same goes for the RS variants which puts sporty handling on its crosshairs but the Scout loves to get itself dirty because of its Rough-Road package with a special off-road function that allows this sport utility wagon to claw through dirt in a middle of a Sunday drive at Hannibal's.

In the essence of tech, the new Octavia can be loaded with numerous driver assistance systems as well as LED Matrix headlights, and so much more, giving the drivers plenty of ways to get themselves noticed on the road.

Be it for work or for play, the typical salaryman favorite from Skoda just got a new lease of life with this fourth generation model. Although it's having a hard time catching up against the crossovers from the Skoda family tree, the all-new Octavia still continues where its previous generations left off in a new and noticeable way whether you like it or not.

Photo: Skoda Auto

Skoda Scala vs. Skoda Kamiq

In the beginning, Skoda never had a compact midsize hatchback related to SEAT's Leon and Volkswagen's Golf, so the Czech relative of the Volkswagen Group decided to create a hatchback that is related to the ones mentioned and the result is the first-ever Skoda Scala, a compact midsize hatchback that ticks the right boxes of what a city car should be in the beginning...or is it?

2019 Skoda Scala

The first-ever Skoda Scala, priced at 377,900 Czech Koruna, is the result of what happened when the Skoda wanted to create a hatchback related to the Seat Leon and the Volkswagen Golf because it runs on the same platform used by these hatchbacks, making it a roomy, sporty, and tech-savvy city car that stays true to its Simply Clever tagline Skoda made.

Beginning on the design, the Scala looks more like an enlarged Fabia of some sort and when parked beneath the Fabia, you can't really tell the difference between them unless if the size is the factor. On the back, this is where serious stuff matters because the Scala is the first Skoda vehicle to ditch the logo and go for the SKODA letters spelled out in the middle, giving it a more strong image like what Volvo did to their cars.

2019 Skoda Scala interior

2019 Skoda Scala interior

Inside, all of the city car comforts are in the Scala, fit for the Generation Z drivers in the beginning. It's got a touch screen, climate control, smartphone connectivity, and so much more to toy with it and as for spacing, the Scala is worth sitting at thanks to its decent legroom and class-leading boot space for stuff to hoard and leave it at home in the beginning. Whether if its for personal use, family affair, or for TNVS purposes, the Scala ticks the right boxes of what a city car should be.

2019 Skoda Scala

The Scala offers city car performance fit for all, meaning it's got a modest choice of a 1.0 TSi, 1.5 TSI, and the 1.6 TDi, the one today's Europeans are avoiding due to their strong distaste for diesel. The 1.5 TSi with the available DSG is the fastest in the range thanks to its 150PS of power, 250Nm of torque, 0-100kph time of 8.4 seconds, and a top speed of 219kph. A Corolla Sport can't do that, of course.

Aside from that, the Scala's sporty character really spells business for people on the move and with the Sport Chassis Control with two chassis settings, drivers have plenty of reasons to fall in love with the Scala while driving it on the road. I know that the Scala is a proven city-class car full stop that can tickle the fancies of drivers wishing to take it for a spin but for the sake of responsibility, the Scala comes with a wide array of new assistance systems and a high level of passive safety. Too much to mention but you get the point.

Summing up then, the Scala is a city-class car that rides rather well with its sporty character, comfort, and looks. However, there are those who are shying away from Skoda's new hatchback because in today's world, in a grim reality speedo boys are facing all the time, there's one grim fandango the Scala's rebelling against and it's this.

2020 Skoda Kamiq

2020 Skoda Kamiq

This is the SUV equivalent of the Scala. It's called the Kamiq and it's another one of those crossover utility vehicles that doesn't make any sense to the speedo boys of today. Prices start at 387,900 Koruna, the Kamiq is slightly more expensive than the Scala but the price bump doesn't stop customers from buying this crossover because, in today's world, crossover utility vehicles are like superhero movies in the cinemas.

2020 Skoda Kamiq interior

2020 Skoda Kamiq interior

While it's not better looking than its Scala relative, the first-ever Kamiq offers the same stuff that you get from the Scala. The city-class car-like comforts, the sat-nav, near-similar boot space as the Scala, same engine choices, same assistance systems, and high level of passive safety, all into this city SUV that can easily overshadow the Scala in a pinch.

Drive-wise, it is still pretty much like the Scala and since it's front-wheel-drive like the Scala and no clever traction stuff that you get from the Citroen C3 Aircross, which is the compact crossover that fell in love with, it fails to be the elephant in the room.

Still, despite having similarities, people buying Skodas might be tempted to buy the Kamiq because of such practicality, but for those who are expressing rage against crossovers that are scared of getting dirty, the Scala is their best bet because by the way it feels, the Scala really is one of the most enjoyable Skoda hatchbacks to drive at the moment, full stop.

Photo: Skoda Auto

Audi SQ2 vs. Skoda Kodiaq vRS

When Audi first launched the Q2 compact crossover years ago, it is basically a now-old first-generation Audi A1 underneath that competes to the likes of Mercedes' GLA-Class and with the pricing is what sets the Q2 apart, its sizing, its value for money, its tech, and so on makes it somewhat of a treat but now, Audi's compact crossover has been given some spices to the mix, resulting to the new SQ2, a semi-high performance variant that sounds enigmatic from the start.

2019 Audi SQ2

Starting at 44,500 Euros, the Audi SQ2 is what happens when you inject a bit of a Volkswagen Golf R engine into the heart of the Q2 crossover, resulting to a crossover that claims that it works and behaves like a Golf R and as a matter of fact, it really is, sort of.

While the SQ2 looks similar to your basic Q2 crossover inside and out, this hot crossover is powered by the same 2.0 liter TFSI engine that powers the Golf R, producing 300PS of power and 400Nm of torque and while mated to a seven-speed S tronic gearbox, it does 0-100kph in less than five seconds and electronically limited to 250kph. That's about as fast as the Golf R, of course, but more importantly, that's enough gusto to smoke out every single compact crossovers, even today's CUPRA Ateca or even this guy.

2019 Skoda Kodiaq vRS

This is the first ever vRS SUV from Skoda, it's called the Skoda Kodiaq vRS, and it only runs on a 2.0 TDI engine with two complementary turbochargers connected in series. It produces about 240PS of power, 500Nm of torque, and with the 7-speed DSG, 0-100kph in less than seven seconds and onwards to just 221kph. That means, our little SQ2 can easily eat this big Kodiaq vRS alive but don't get all to jumpy because we have to take a look of the price and other stuff.

In terms of pricing, the SQ2 starts at 44,500 Euros as mentioned, but the Kodiaq vRS, meanwhile, costs about 1,189,900 Koruna (about less than fifty grand in Euro talk), meaning that the petrol-powered SQ2 is more value for money compared to the diesel-powered Kodiaq vRS that is about to be kicked out from the band because of its diesel powertrain and diesels have become Europe's public enemy number one of today since the D-word.

Dynamics aside, they both have four wheel drive, meaning that they are ready to tackle whatever roads they come across even when today's weather forecast calls for either rain or snow but on the track, its mild but menacing dynamics really spells understeer and drivers may find it struggling even at slow speeds. Just saying but because the SQ2's smaller, it's got a slight edge compared to the hulking Kodiaq vRS with the diesel engine in it so it should be good as they say.

Conveniences, this is where the Kodiaq vRS gets the upper hand because while the SQ2 only seats five, the Kodiaq vRS comes with an additional third row seat, meaning that this is worth being a family car full-stop as long as its sweet spot's not ruined by the invasion of the child seats so if you want a sweet spot, get yourselves a SQ2 instead, but what are the chances? Boot space? Leave it to the Kodiaq, of course.

So, while the the SQ2 is all about the performance that speaks for itself as a hot crossover, the Kodiaq vRS, despite the powertrain that is not friendly for Europeans of today, excels of being a family car because of its space, the additional third row seats, and so on. If you have to choose, which one will you drive for the weekends and why? Decisions, decisions...

Photo: Audi/Skoda Auto

VW T-Roc vs. SEAT Arona vs. Skoda Karoq

Let's admit it, ladies and gentlemen, the earth is now the planet of the SUVs because car companies love to make some money out of launching heavyweights no matter how big or small they are and when the more they keep launching SUVs, the more risk that the whole range will be out of the weight limit and resort of removing some in the lineup. In the Volkswagen Group, this is no exception to the rule as these three new compact SUVs continue to be part of this new automotive world order where SUVs are now part of the daily lifestyle.

2018 Volkswagen T-Roc

2018 Volkswagen T-Roc interior

Let's begin with Volkswagen's first-ever baby SUV, the T-Roc. Starting at just 20,390 Euros plus OTR costs, the T-Roc is Volkswagen's answer to bland baby crossovers such as the Nissan Juke and the Toyota C-HR and while it was basically pinned on the same bits and bobs from today's VW Polo, the T-Roc is no exception to the rule because while it may be an SUV, it's a crossover fit for every millennials' lifestyles. Of course, you might say that the exterior design is questionable because while the front looks very sporty indeed, the rearview looks like a Tetris piece, resulting in a questionable exterior no one saw it coming.

On the interior, it's not half bad especially when the dashboard is festooned with bits and bobs as experienced from the Audi like the instrumental panel which looks like it was heavily inspired from the Audi Virtual Cockpit, which makes it a Q2 on a budget and that's good for them. Apart from that, it's not bad to get cozy with and because it's not as leathery as a posh crossover, you don't get your full moon to experience the chilly torment in the event of cold temperatures and you'll have seconds to tuck your trousers back to its original condition. Not bad.

The T-Roc is offered with a choice of petrol and diesel engines with the most powerful being the 2.0 TSi variant mated to a 7-speed DSG that produces a modest 190PS of power and 320Nm of torque, propelling from 0-100kph in 7.2 seconds and onwards to 216kph. Your Nissan Juke or Toyota C-HR doesn't stand a chance with the T-Roc, you know, because they can only do 180, which is the limit to all Japanese cars and that's it. So, while the performance of the T-Roc really upsets the Japanese, the dynamics aren't half bad for a crossover because it handles pretty much like today's Polo without all the hot fuzz. Sure, it may not be as sporty as it hoped for, it's perky to keep it afloat on the road. Also, when equipped with 4MOTION, it's not pretty half bad in the wet. In fact, this could have been your sister's crossover rather than the ones I've mentioned. Lastly, the T-Roc is offered with a wide array of safety features that will give drivers a more confident driving experience without worry.

The T-Roc may have a questionable exterior design but with some good parts binned on this jacked-up Polo, it wasn't really mediocre by SUV standards. In fact, you could consider it your first ride if you got a job and a driver's license. However, if you find the T-Roc is not your kind of crossover, consider this...

2018 Seat Arona

2018 Seat Arona interior

At first glance, it may look like today's SEAT Ibiza but this is not the Ibiza because what this is is its jacked-up cousin, the SEAT Arona. Starting at 14,100 Euros plus OTR, you can really afford one rather than the VW T-Roc I've mentioned but unlike the T-Roc, the Arona is basically an Ibiza with some added ground clearance on it and from every angle, you will notice the bits and bobs you saw on the said car, meaning those who are familiar with it shouldn't worry about how to deal with the Arona's conveniences in the same way they compare the Mazda CX-3 to its Demio cousin.

The most powerful version is the 1.5 TSI EVO FR variant with 150PS of power output and 250Nm of torque, resulting to a 0-100kph time of 8 seconds and onwards to 205kph, which is basically slower than the T-Roc. Also, the Arona is available only in front-wheel drive so you have no right to make it dirty because it was only limited to city use, which is kind of a shame really because while some crossovers try to look tougher, the lack of 4WD are the ideal equivalent of the whole Weenie Hut joke I saw from a children's show.

This brings on to the last item on this article which is somewhat the lesser of two evils...

2018 Skoda Karoq

2018 Skoda Karoq

This is the all-new Skoda Karoq, the replacement to the Yeti which a certain ape calls it the best SUV in the world because you can outrun a Ferrari on an unfinished track, more room to get out, more stable than the Range Rover, and the aircon that works well in extremely hot conditions. This then is somewhat the different article and for 529 900 Kč or 24,290 Euros, it's the most expensive of the three. On the plus side, it's more affordable than the Skoda Octavia Scout, which sounds questionable but flattering.

While this is the most expensive of the three, the Karoq features the best of both worlds, something the T-Roc and the Arona quake in their rear bumpers. It's got Kodiaq-style looks not bad for a baby crossover, it's got luxurious interior, it's got ample boot, and more importantly, a wide array of safety tech and dynamics that set them apart.

However, what's annoying about the Karoq is the leather seats which stings your butt when the temperature drops to near zero. Also, the most powerful offering produces the same amount that you get from the Arona but it's heavier and in a three-way drag race, the Karoq loses. That sounds like a bitter disappointment but when you're not in the mood to bother the T-Roc and the Arona, you will be thankful that the Karoq nails all of the right moves a midsize crossover should be. It's comfortable, it's tough, it's spacious, and above all, it's everything you wanted it to be on an SUV of that size.

So, there we are, in terms of fair value, the Arona is the best bet but in terms of doing all the things you want for an SUV, the Karoq is the best bet. The T-Roc may not be as valuable or capable as these two but it's got more features than the other two and picking the winner sounds challenging as it should be but you'll be the judge of that when you try these three.

Photo: Volkswagen/ SEAT S.A./Skoda Auto

Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda once gave us their first ever SUV in the range known as the Yeti, which remains one of the most interesting vehicles to drive especially when you are sensible enough to understand how it stacked up from the competition by any means necessary. Now, the Czech car manufacturer's upping up the crossover ante by delivering us their flagship crossover known as the Kodiaq.

2017 Skoda Kodiaq

2017 Skoda Kodiaq

When you say Kodiaq, all you ever rhyme with it is a defunct camera company called Kodak, am I right? Wow, that's one bad joke that shouldn't be put in investigating new vehicles launched in the market, but anyway, the Kodiaq name was inspired from an Alaskan island, Kodiak, just to give it a more adventurous feel for their flagship crossover.

What's basically underneath the Kodiaq is the underpinnings of the latest VW Tiguan and while you can expect signature Skoda looks that you can expect on today's Octavia and Superb, the sizing is what you called easily mistaken for the Hyundai Maxcruz judging by the fact that this is a large midsize SUV fit for the not-so-perfect family on a Saturday morning when Dad has to take the kids to the badminton practice, basketball tryouts, Girl Scouts, anything while Dad's sorting out at the hardware store until the break of day.

2017 Skoda Kodiaq interior

2017 Skoda Kodiaq interior

The real beauty of the Skoda Kodiaq is not about the design which, by crossover standards, looks like a total mashup between a second-generation Kia Sorento and a Maserati Levante. But inside, it's surprisingly high-tech from beginning to end and because it has a volume of 720 to 2,065 l (with the rear seats folded down), the Kodiaq has the biggest load space in its class and because this is the first ever Skoda to have third-row seating as an optional extra, this is a very accommodating crossover that you can size one up for yourself because you never know what might hit you today.

2017 Skoda Kodiaq

While this is basically a VW Tiguan underneath, the Kodiaq's large sizing doesn't hamper with its handling credentials and despite being an SUV, it handles really like a Skoda Superb in all the good angles. When prompted to an all-wheel drive, the Kodiaq is a whole different animal and no matter the weather update and the road condition it comes across, the Kodiaq is fully prepared to take the job at hand like a backpack full of survival necessities. Now this is definitely a promising Skoda to take on the weekends and unlike any other third-row crossover, the Kodiaq really means business for the owners.

Under the hood, the Kodiaq lies a choice of 1.4 TSi, 2.0 TSi, and 2.0 TDi engines, with various configurations and transmission choices such as a 6-speed manual gearbox or DSG transmissions with six or seven speeds. The most powerful Kodiaq in the range is the 2.0 TDi with 140kW of power output and 400Nm of torque. Mated to a seven-speed DSG and all-wheel drive, it does 0-100kph in an average 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 210kph. No crossover from Japan can get through that, you know. Those looking for fuel efficiency can go for the 2.0 TDi mated with 7-speed DSG but with front-wheel drive and 110kW of power output because with that, it delivers CO2 emissions of 131g/km with combined fuel economy of 5L/100km (20kmpl).

Although, adventurous in spirit, the Kodiaq comes with a wide variety of driver aids but nothing is more so than Skoda's first ever Area View system that allows the driver to view different sides courtesy of its surround-view cameras located in the front and rear sections as well as in the wing mirrors. This thing works like Nissan's Around View Monitor in so many ways. Another noticeable driver aid is the Front Assist including City Emergency Brake, which comes as standard on the Kodiaq, which can detect dangerous situations, warns the driver, and if needed, partially or fully apply the brakes and couple that with the available Predictive Pedestrian Protection, you got yourself a safe treat in the Kodiaq.

The Kodiaq starts at 693,900 Czech Koruna, which is 20K more than the Superb Combi, but problems with pricing aside, the Kodiaq is a promising start for Skoda and with all the tech, accommodation, styling, performance, and its ruggedness, looks like its heading for the right direction in the ever-growing crossover market.

Photo: Skoda Auto

Skoda Fabia Mk.3 Combi

2015 Skoda Fabia Combi

2015 Skoda Fabia Combi

Notably the estate version of the third-generation Skoda Fabia, the Combi still does the same behavior as expected from the hatchback variant even though it has a bigger boot space fit enough for your groceries. Sure it maybe a sport tourer in its own right but the Fabia Combi, like the hatchback equivalent, feels somewhat average. It may not be brilliant to drive but it's not quite dull either.

On the inside, it's still feels just like what you expect on the hatchback version. It maybe bland to look at but it's surprisingly comfortable and you can feel relaxed while you're at it.

In terms of boot space, it's surprisingly the biggest in its segment with its 530L boot capacity (1,395L with the back seat folded), which is 25% more than the previous Fabia Combi. That's big enough to fit a bucket full of fishes after your fishing trip with your friends or family.

Like the hatchback equivalent, the Combi model features high-tech safety features such as Front Assistant with integrated City Emergency Braking Function and the Multi-Collision Brake, Driver Activity Assistant, Speedlimiter, Hill-Hold Control, and electronic tyre pressure monitor. Apart from the safety features, it also comes with the available SmartGate function which works like your smartphone as well as the new MirrorLink where your smartphone can be easily paired and use specific apps that both your phone and the car had.

Under the hood, the Combi comes with a 1.0L MPi, 1.2 TSi, and the 1.4 TDi. The most powerful in the lineup for now is the one with the 1.2 TSi engine developing 110PS of power and 175Nm of torque. With the 7-speed DSG equipped, 0-100kph takes about a moderate 9.6 seconds and a top speed of a not-so-much 199km/h.

Should you buy one? Well, the Fabia Combi starts at 267,900 Kč, which is 28,000 more than the hatchback version but it remains a smart buy for first-timers everywhere who are looking for some practical sport tourer for a reasonable price.

Photo: Skoda Auto a.s.

Škoda Superb B8

Now on its third-generation, the all-new Skoda Superb has been graduated from a large family car to a full-size car because it's now larger than its predecessor and it comes with numerous engine choices including a new generation of direct-injection turbocharged engines. So, what's it all about the new Superb?

2016 Skoda Superb

2016 Skoda Superb Combi

Skoda says that the design from the new Superb is heavily inspired from the Vision C Concept but in general, the new look is almost identical to the conceptual design of the VisionC, meaning some mixed results occurred but nevertheless, first impressions aren't always the best. Even though it wasn't as appealing as it looks, it's still well-commanding for Skoda's flagship saloon even though it comes with two different variations, the saloon version or the extra-spacious Combi model.

2016 Skoda Superb interior

On the inside, nothing's too special about the Superb's interior quality even though it has bits and bobs from the Volkswagen Group family tree. Even though it wasn't as surprising as it looks, it's still rather comfortable, about the same level of comfortness you would get on a Hyundai Grandeur or Aslan or a Kia K7. Sorry, that sounds rudimentary but it's also high-tech as well because it comes with a brand-new SmartLink infotainment system, which comes with MirrorLink, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. As for sound quality, its available Canton sound system sounds like a bit common unlike sophisticated audio systems in luxury cars but it's not so bad to hear it.

Because it's bigger than the previous Superb, the boot space is now increased, meaning you can store more groceries as you like and if you opt in for the Combi version, it has a lot more luggage capacity fit enough for your next hectic schedules ahead, even your next day offs.

2016 Skoda Superb

There are different engines to choose from on the new Superb ranging from five petrol engines ranging from 1.4 to 2.0L, and three diesels ranging from 1.6 to 2.0L. The top-tier of the range is the 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine that develops 280PS of power, 350Nm of torque, and it can do 0-100kph in less than six seconds if mated with a double-clutch gearbox. Sounds quick and as for handling, thanks to its MQB platform and improved dynamics and comfort, driving the new Superb has the same feeling like you expect from German luxury saloons, despite the fact that the Superb is basically a front-wheel drive car (with the optional 4x4 powertrain).

As for safety features, the Superb is ready with the best level of safety tech from Electronic Stability Control, Multi-Collision Brake, Adaptive Cruise Control, Crew Protect Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, Blind Spot Detect, and Smart Light Assist among many others.

2016 Skoda Superb Combi

The new Superb wants to be a BMW 5-Series in VW Passat money and with prices start at 599,900 Kc for the saloon and 629,900 Kc for the Combi, it's a hard bargain so not bad for such regeneration. Although it may have some flops in every bits and bobs around here, the new Superb is one of the key cars why Skoda is celebrating 120 years since the very first Skoda built, the LK Voiturette A, so that's interesting if you want to dig through Skoda's 120 year history but for now, the new Superb is more of a birthday present to Skoda, it's the flagship that reserves to be respected for the owners.

Photo: ŠKODA AUTO a.s.