The Indian full-size SUV market continues to thrive with options that offer premium features, rugged capability, and road dominance. At the forefront of this category in 2025 are two compelling contenders: the new Skoda Kodiaq and the ever-popular Toyota Fortuner. While both are 7-seater SUVs, they cater to vastly different kinds of SUV enthusiasts—one prioritizing modern European sophistication and tech, the other rooted in muscular design and proven off-road reliability.
In this comprehensive comparison, we dissect every crucial element—pricing, dimensions, engine performance, features, and safety—to help you decide which 7-seater SUV suits your needs in 2025.
Pricing: Skoda Kodiaq vs Toyota Fortuner Price Comparison
| Model | Price Range (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|
| Skoda Kodiaq | ₹46.89 lakh – ₹48.69 lakh |
| Toyota Fortuner (Petrol) | ₹35.37 lakh – ₹51.94 lakh |
The Toyota Fortuner offers a broader range of trims, starting at a significantly lower price than the Kodiaq. While the top Fortuner variant can go beyond the Kodiaq’s pricing, its flexibility in offering both petrol and diesel options adds value for Indian buyers.
Dimensions & Road Presence
| Parameter | Skoda Kodiaq | Toyota Fortuner | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 4758 mm | 4795 mm | -37 mm |
| Width | 1864 mm | 1855 mm | +9 mm |
| Height | 1679 mm | 1835 mm | -156 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2791 mm | 2745 mm | +46 mm |
| Boot Space | 281L – 1976L | 296L – 1080L | Slight Edge to Fortuner (all rows up) |
The Toyota Fortuner wins in sheer size and road presence, especially with its height advantage. However, the Skoda Kodiaq is wider and offers a longer wheelbase, contributing to better interior legroom and cabin spaciousness.
Powertrain and Drivetrain: Technology vs Muscle
Skoda Kodiaq (Single Powertrain)
- Engine: 2.0L TSI Turbo-Petrol
- Power: 204 PS
- Torque: 320 Nm
- Transmission: 7-speed Dual-Clutch (DCT)
- Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Toyota Fortuner (Multiple Options)
- Petrol Engine: 2.7L, 166 PS, 245 Nm
- Diesel Engine: 2.8L, 204 PS, up to 500 Nm
- Transmission: 5-MT / 6-AT (Petrol), 6-iMT / 6-AT (Diesel)
- Drivetrain: RWD / AWD
The Kodiaq’s DCT and AWD setup offers smoother gear shifts and dynamic driving. Meanwhile, the Fortuner’s diesel engine with its massive torque and proven reliability is built for towing, rugged terrains, and off-road capabilities. If you’re looking for a powerful diesel SUV, the Fortuner stands strong.
Features Face-Off: Luxury vs Utility
Exterior
| Feature | Skoda Kodiaq | Toyota Fortuner |
|---|---|---|
| Headlights | Auto LED w/ cornering lights | Auto LED |
| Taillights | LED with welcome animation | LED |
| ORVM | Auto-folding, heated, memory | Electrically adjustable |
| Wheels | 18-inch alloys + aero trims | 18-inch alloys |
Interior & Comfort
| Feature | Skoda Kodiaq | Toyota Fortuner |
|---|---|---|
| Upholstery | Premium Leather | Leather |
| Sunroof | Panoramic | Not available |
| Ambient Lighting | Multi-color | Basic |
| Rear AC Vents | 3-zone climate control | Dual-zone AC |
| Seat Functions | Ventilated, heated, massage (front) | Power-adjustable (front) |
| Wireless Charging | Dual w/ ventilation | Single |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 10.25-inch fully digital | Analog with TFT |
Infotainment
| Infotainment Feature | Skoda Kodiaq | Toyota Fortuner |
|---|---|---|
| Touchscreen Display | 12.9-inch | 8-inch |
| Audio System | 13-speaker Canton system | 11-speaker JBL (top trims) |
| Smartphone Integration | Wireless Android Auto & CarPlay | Wired Android Auto & CarPlay |
The Skoda Kodiaq clearly wins in the tech and comfort department, offering a far more modern and premium interior.
Safety Features: European Sophistication vs Proven Reliability
| Safety Feature | Skoda Kodiaq | Toyota Fortuner |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 9 | 7 |
| ESC | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Assist | Yes (Up & Down) | Yes |
| Parking Assist | Auto-park & 360° camera | Rear camera + sensors |
| Driver Attention Monitor | Yes | No |
| ISOFIX Child Mounts | Yes | Yes |
Safety is where the Kodiaq shines again, offering more airbags, better driver assistance, and advanced camera systems. However, the Fortuner maintains its reputation for reliability and structural integrity.
Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
- Choose the 2025 Skoda Kodiaq if you want:
- A tech-packed, luxurious European SUV
- Smoother on-road dynamics
- Modern styling and better in-cabin experience
- Advanced comfort and safety features
- Choose the Toyota Fortuner if you want:
- Rugged, go-anywhere capabilities
- More variant options across a broader price range
- Diesel powertrain and off-road prowess
- A reliable, road-dominating Indian favorite
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1. Which SUV offers better fuel efficiency – Skoda Kodiaq or Toyota Fortuner?
Answer: The Toyota Fortuner diesel variant offers better fuel efficiency compared to the Kodiaq’s turbo-petrol engine. However, efficiency figures may vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
Q2. Is the Skoda Kodiaq good for off-roading?
Answer: While the Kodiaq comes with AWD and good ground clearance, it’s better suited for light off-road or urban SUV needs. The Fortuner, with its body-on-frame build, excels in tough off-road conditions.
Q3. Which SUV is safer between the Skoda Kodiaq and Toyota Fortuner?
Answer: The Skoda Kodiaq offers more safety tech, including 9 airbags, 360° camera, and driver attention monitoring. Both SUVs come with ESC and ISOFIX mounts.
Q4. What makes the Toyota Fortuner so popular in India?
Answer: The Fortuner is loved for its bold road presence, diesel performance, off-road capability, and reliable service network, making it a status symbol in India.
Q5. Does the Kodiaq offer a diesel variant?
Answer: No, the 2025 Skoda Kodiaq is available only with a 2.0L turbo-petrol engine in India.
