If you’re thinking about buying a Skoda Kodiaq and need to tow heavy stuff like caravans, trailers, or boats, you’re in the right place.
The skoda kodiaq towing capacity is one of the main reasons why many families choose this SUV.
Understanding the skoda kodiaq weight towing limit will help you make the right choice for your needs.
The Skoda Kodiaq is a mid-size SUV that has been around since 2016.
It’s known for being spacious, comfortable, and most importantly, really good at towing. Whether you want to pull a family caravan for holidays or need to haul a boat to the lake, this SUV can handle it.
But here’s the thing – not all Kodiaq models have the same towing power.
The amount you can tow depends on which engine you choose, what year your car is, and whether you have four-wheel drive or not. Some versions can pull up to 2,500 kg, while others are limited to 1,600 kg.
Skoda Kodiaq Towing Capacity
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Skoda Kodiaq’s towing abilities.
We’ll show you exactly how much each model can tow, explain what makes it a good tow car, and answer all the common questions people ask. By the end, you’ll know if the Kodiaq is the right choice for your towing needs.
Skoda Kodiaq Towing Capacity By Year
The towing capacity of the Skoda Kodiaq has stayed pretty much the same since it launched. Here’s a quick look at what each year can handle:
| Year | Max Unbraked Towing Capacity | Braked Towing Capacity From | Max Braked Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 750kg | 2000kg | 2000kg |
| 2024 | 750kg | 2000kg | 2000kg |
| 2023 | 750kg | 2000kg | 2000kg |
| 2022 | 750kg | 2000kg | 2000kg |
| 2021 | 750kg | 2000kg | 2000kg |
| 2020 | 750kg | 2000kg | 2000kg |
| 2019 | 750kg | 2000kg | 2000kg |
| 2018 | 750kg | 2000kg | 2000kg |
| 2017 | 750kg | 2000kg | 2000kg |
What does this mean?
- Unbraked towing capacity: This is how much you can tow if your trailer doesn’t have its brakes. For all Kodiaq models, this is 750kg.
- Braked towing capacity: This is how much you can tow if your trailer has its braking system. This can go up to 2000kg or even 2500kg, depending on your engine.
Important note: These are the standard figures, but some specific engine and trim combinations can tow more. Always check your car’s handbook for the exact numbers.
Series of the Skoda Kodiaq
The Skoda Kodiaq has gone through some changes since it first came out. Here are the main series:
- Skoda Kodiaq 1st series (2017 to 2021): This was the original version that started it all
- Skoda Kodiaq 1st series (facelift #1) (since 2021): This is the updated version with fresh styling and some new features
What changed in the facelift?
The 2021 facelift brought several improvements:
- Updated front and rear styling
- New LED headlights and taillights
- Improved interior materials
- More advanced safety features
- Better infotainment system
But here’s the good news: The towing capacity didn’t change. So, whether you buy a 2017 model or a brand new 2025 one, you’ll get the same excellent towing abilities.
Is The Skoda Kodiaq A Good Tow Car?
Short answer: Yes! The Skoda Kodiaq is one of the best towing vehicles you can buy. Carbuyer named it the overall winner of the 2018 Tow Car of the Year Award.
Why is it so good at towing?
- Strong engines: The diesel engines, especially, are perfect for towing
- Four-wheel drive available: This gives you better grip and control
- Good weight distribution: The car stays stable even with heavy loads
- Smooth gearbox: The 7-speed DSG automatic handles towing well
Real-world towing performance:
When tested with a caravan weighing over 1,500kg, the Kodiaq showed:
- Excellent stability at motorway speeds
- Easy overtaking with good acceleration (30-60mph in 12.5 seconds)
- Smooth gear changes that help maintain momentum uphill
- Great handling in crosswinds
What makes it stand out?
- Light for its size: At 1,795kg minimum weight, it’s lighter than many competitors
- High towing limit: Up to 2,000kg braked capacity for most models
- Seven seats: You can still carry the whole family while towing
- Great fuel economy: Better than many other large SUVs
Any downsides?
There are a few minor points to consider:
- Noseweight limit is quite low at 80kg (some expect more from a big SUV)
- Not completely immune to crosswinds (though still very stable)
- The smaller engines have lower towing limits
Skoda Kodiaq Towing Capacity: Complete Model Breakdown
Here’s the detailed breakdown of what each Kodiaq model can tow:
| Car Make & Model | Max Towing Weight – Unbraked | Max Towing Capacity – Braked |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Models | ||
| Kodiaq Select (4X4) 7 Speed Auto | 750kg | 2000kg |
| Kodiaq Sportline (4X4) 7 Speed Auto | 750kg | 2000kg |
| Kodiaq Rs (4X4) 180Tsi 2.0L Petrol | 750kg | 2000kg |
| Kodiaq Sportline (4X4) 132Tsi 2.0L | 750kg | 2000kg |
| Kodiaq Style (4X4) 132Tsi 2.0L | 750kg | 2000kg |
| Engine-Specific Models | ||
| 1.4 TSI (125 PS) | 750kg | 1600kg |
| 1.4 TSI ACT (150 PS) | 750kg | 2000kg |
| 1.4 TSI ACT 4×4 (150 PS) | 750kg | 2000kg |
| 1.5 TSI (150 PS) | 750kg | 1800kg |
| 2.0 TDI (150 PS) | 750kg | 2000kg |
| 2.0 TDI 4×4 (150 PS) | 750kg | 2300kg |
| 2.0 TDI 4×4 (200 PS) | 750kg | 2300kg |
| 2.0 TDI 4×4 Auto (150 PS) | 750kg | 2500kg |
| 2.0 TSI 4×4 (190 PS) | 750kg | 2200kg |
Key takeaways from this table:
- Diesel engines tow more than petrol engines
- Four-wheel drive models generally have higher limits
- The automatic diesel 4×4 has the highest capacity at 2,500kg
- Smaller engines like the 1.4 TSI have lower limits
Which engine should you choose for towing?
- For light towing (under 1,600kg): Any engine will do fine
- For medium towing (1,600-2,000kg): Go for the 1.4 TSI ACT or 2.0 TDI
- For heavy towing (over 2,000kg): You need the 2.0 TDI 4×4 automatic
Technical Specifications for Towing
When you’re planning to tow with your Kodiaq, you need to know these important numbers:
Using the 2.0 TDI 4×4 DSG as an example:
- Empty weight: 1,752-1,952 kg
- Maximum total weight: 2,352 kg
- Payload: 475-675 kg
- Maximum vertical load: 100 kg
What this means for towing:
- Vertical load: This is how much weight you can put on the towbar itself
- All 4×4 models can handle a maximum of 100kg vertical load
- Front-wheel drive models are limited to 75kg
Important safety tip: These weights are without the driver. Always add your weight and passengers when calculating total load.
FAQs About Skoda Kodiaq Towing
- Can a Skoda Kodiaq tow a caravan?
Yes, absolutely! The Kodiaq is excellent for towing caravans. Most models can handle caravans up to 2,000kg, and the most powerful diesel can pull up to 2,500kg. This covers most family caravans easily.
- What is the maximum towing capacity of the Skoda Kodiaq?
The maximum towing capacity depends on your model:
- Most models: 2,000kg braked capacity
- 2.0 TDI 4×4 automatic: Up to 2,500kg braked capacity
- All models: 750kg unbraked capacity
- Do I need special equipment to tow with a Skoda Kodiaq?
Yes, you’ll need:
- Proper towbar (may be factory-fitted on some models)
- Electrical connection for trailer lights
- Brake controller for caravans with electric brakes
- Stabilizer for better handling (recommended)
- Does the Skoda Kodiaq come with a factory-installed hitch?
This depends on your model and market. Some trim levels include a factory towbar, while others offer it as an option. Check with your Skoda dealer to confirm what’s included with your specific model.
- What’s the difference between braked and unbraked towing capacity?
- Unbraked capacity (750kg): For trailers without their brakes
- Braked capacity (up to 2,500kg): For trailers with their braking system
Braked trailers are much safer for heavy loads because they help your car stop more effectively.
- Is there a recommended weight distribution for towing?
Yes! Follow these guidelines:
- Keep 60-65% of trailer weight on the front axle
- Don’t exceed the noseweight limit (80-100kg depending on model)
- Distribute load evenly from side to side
- Keep heavy items low in the trailer
- How does towing affect fuel consumption?
Towing will increase your fuel consumption. Expect:
- 15-25% increase for light trailers
- 30-40% increase for heavy caravans
- Even more if you’re driving in hilly areas
The diesel engines are more efficient when towing than the petrol engines.
Can I tow with the smaller 1.4 TSI engine?
Yes, but with limits. The 1.4 TSI can tow:
- 1,600kg for the basic version
- 2,000kg for the ACT version with 4×4
It’s fine for smaller caravans but might struggle with very heavy loads or steep hills.
Tips for Safe Towing with Your Kodiaq
Before you start towing:
- Check your tire pressures (both car and trailer)
- Adjust your mirrors so you can see past the trailer
- Practice reversing in a safe area first
- Check that all lights are working properly
While towing:
- Drive slower than normal (especially on motorways)
- Leave more stopping distance
- Use engine braking going downhill
- Take breaks more often to check that everything is secure
Best practices:
- Load the trailer properly with heavy items at the bottom
- Never exceed weight limits – it’s dangerous and illegal
- Service your car more often when towing regularly
- Consider a towing course if you’re new to it
Also Check:
Conclusion:
The Skoda Kodiaq is genuinely one of the best towing vehicles you can buy today. With a maximum braked towing capacity of 2,500kg for the top diesel model, it can handle almost any family caravan, boat trailer, or horsebox you throw at it.
Key points to remember:
- All Kodiaq models can tow at least 1,600kg braked
- Most popular models offer 2,000kg capacity
- The 2.0 TDI 4×4 automatic gives you the maximum 2,500kg capacity
- 750kg unbraked capacity across all models
- Excellent stability and handling when towing
Why choose the Kodiaq for towing?
- Award-winning performance (2018 Tow Car of the Year)
- Strong, efficient engines, especially the diesels
- Seven-seat capacity so the whole family can come along
- Great value compared to premium German rivals
- Reliable with good build quality
Our recommendation: If you need to tow regularly, go for the 2.0 TDI 4×4 with automatic transmission. It offers the best combination of towing capacity, fuel economy, and ease of use. For occasional light towing, the 1.4 TSI ACT or 1.5 TSI models will serve you well and save money.
Remember to always check your specific vehicle’s handbook for exact towing capacities, as these can vary slightly between markets and model years. And most importantly, never exceed the weight limits – they’re there for your safety and the safety of other road users.
Happy towing!
