Kodiaq vs X-Trail
In India’s premium three-row SUV segment, an intriguing battle emerges between two distinctive machines that share surprising commonalities while serving different buyer priorities. The Skoda Kodiaq represents Czech engineering excellence—robust, feature-rich, and backed by the Volkswagen Group’s global expertise. The Nissan X-Trail marks the Japanese manufacturer’s flagship offering—returning to India after years of absence with refined styling and proven reliability. Both SUVs promise spacious seven-seater practicality, premium features, and petrol power in a segment dominated by diesel engines. Whether you’re drawn to the Kodiaq’s European sophistication and all-wheel-drive capability or the X-Trail’s Japanese refinement and distinctive hybrid technology, this comprehensive comparison will help you determine which premium three-row SUV deserves your substantial investment in 2025.
Table of Contents
Pricing: The Value Equation
The financial reality reveals a meaningful gap. Nissan X-Trail price starts at Rs 49.92 Lakh ex-showroom and Skoda Kodiaq price starts at Rs 46.89 Lakh ex-showroom. The Nissan X-Trail is almost Rs 10 lakh more expensive than the Skoda Kodiaq according to some sources comparing older Kodiaq generation models.
The current pricing makes the Kodiaq approximately Rs. 3 lakh cheaper than the X-Trail—a meaningful difference considering both are sold as single, fully-loaded variants. The X-Trail’s higher price reflects its status as a CBU (completely built unit) import, while the Kodiaq benefits from CKD (completely knocked down) assembly in India, reducing import duties.
Engine Performance: Different Philosophies
Both SUVs employ petrol engines—a rarity in this segment—but their approaches differ fundamentally in displacement and technology.
Skoda Kodiaq Engine:
The 2025 Kodiaq gets a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol producing 190hp and 320Nm. The 1984 cc Petrol engine produces 201 bhp @ 4500-6000 rpm of power and 320 Nm @ 1500 rpm of torque in the latest variant. This represents significant power—up to 40 PS more than the X-Trail.
The four-cylinder turbo-petrol delivers strong low-end torque from just 1,500 rpm, creating effortless acceleration and confident overtaking ability. The 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox shifts smoothly and quickly, sending power to all four wheels through Skoda’s 4WD system.
Nissan X-Trail Engine:
The Nissan X-Trail’s 1.5-litre, three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine puts out 163hp and 300Nm, and is mated to a CVT gearbox that feeds power to the front wheels. The 1498 cc Petrol engine produces 161 bhp 4800 rpm of power and 300 Nm 2800 rpm of torque.
The X-Trail employs mild-hybrid technology—the engine is paired with an electric motor providing additional assistance during acceleration. This system improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions while providing smooth, refined power delivery. However, the front-wheel-drive configuration means less capability in challenging conditions compared to the Kodiaq’s 4WD system.
Fuel Efficiency: Operating Economics
Running costs differ meaningfully between these premium SUVs. The Nissan X-Trail has a claimed efficiency of 13.7kpl, while the Skoda Kodiaq has a claimed fuel economy figure of 13.32kpl according to some sources. However, the Kodiaq provides mileage of 14.86 kmpl according to more recent data—making it the more fuel-efficient option.
The Kodiaq’s superior efficiency despite having a larger engine and 4WD system demonstrates Skoda’s engineering prowess. The difference—approximately 1-1.5 kmpl—translates to modest but meaningful savings over thousands of kilometers of driving.
Dimensions and Space: Physical Presence
Exterior Dimensions:
The Skoda Kodiaq is a SUV with a seating capacity of 7 and a length of 4758 mm. Both SUVs offer commanding road presence with substantial proportions appropriate for their premium positioning.
Boot Space Advantage:
This is where the X-Trail demonstrates a significant advantage. Nissan X-Trail offers 585 litres of boot space, while Skoda Kodiaq offers 281 litres of boot space. The X-Trail’s more than double cargo capacity makes it dramatically more practical for families requiring substantial luggage room or frequent long-distance travel.
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Nissan X-Trail has a petrol fuel tank capacity of 55 litres, and Skoda Kodiaq has a capacity of 62 litres. The Kodiaq’s larger tank combined with better fuel efficiency provides superior range between fill-ups—approximately 920 kilometers versus the X-Trail’s 750 kilometers.
Features and Technology: Premium Equipment
Both SUVs come loaded with comprehensive feature sets befitting their premium positioning, though each has unique advantages.
Nissan X-Trail Features:
The X-Trail gets amenities like an 8-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch fully digital driver’s display, a dual-zone AC, and a panoramic sunroof. However, it misses out on important features like ventilated front seats, leatherette upholstery, powered front seats, and ambient lighting.
The X-Trail’s mild-hybrid system represents advanced powertrain technology, while the large digital driver’s display provides comprehensive vehicle information in a modern, easy-to-read format.
Skoda Kodiaq Features:
These features are offered with both Kodiaq and Meridian competitors. The Kodiaq includes ventilated front seats, leatherette upholstery, powered front seats, and ambient lighting—features the X-Trail lacks despite its higher price.
The Kodiaq benefits from Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation, comprehensive connectivity features, and Skoda’s typically excellent build quality with premium materials throughout.
Safety Equipment: Comprehensive Protection
Safety receives priority attention in both SUVs. The Kodiaq here gets 9 airbags, while also offering ESC, TPMS, and a 360-degree camera. Having said that, none of these SUVs come with advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features.
Both SUVs provide comprehensive passive and active safety features including multiple airbags, electronic stability control, tire pressure monitoring, and parking assistance. The absence of ADAS on both vehicles is notable given their premium pricing and 2025 model year.
Driving Dynamics: Different Characters
Skoda Kodiaq Driving Experience:
The power is sent to all four wheels via a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission (DCT). The 4WD system provides superior traction in challenging conditions, while the dual-clutch transmission delivers quick, smooth shifts that enhance the driving experience.
The Kodiaq drives with typical Skoda solidity—confident handling, well-controlled body movements, and steering that provides good feedback. The ride quality balances comfort with composure, making it suitable for both city driving and highway cruising.
Nissan X-Trail Driving Experience:
The CVT gearbox feeds power to the front wheels, creating smooth but less engaging acceleration compared to the Kodiaq’s dual-clutch setup. The mild-hybrid system provides seamless assistance, though the front-wheel-drive configuration limits capability on slippery surfaces or mild off-road terrain.
The X-Trail prioritizes comfort and refinement over dynamic prowess, creating a serene driving experience that isolates occupants from road imperfections and minimizes noise intrusion.
The Import Reality
An important consideration: The Nissan X-Trail is sold as a completely imported model in India, hence it has a higher asking price. The X-Trail is even more expensive than MG Gloster and regular variants of the Toyota Fortuner.
This CBU status means higher pricing but also potentially better build quality and specification consistency compared to locally assembled vehicles. However, it also means limited customization options and potentially higher service costs.
The Verdict: Choose Your Priority
Choose the Skoda Kodiaq if:
- You want Rs. 3 lakh+ purchase price savings
- All-wheel-drive capability matters for your driving conditions
- Better fuel economy lowers long-term operating costs
- Ventilated seats and powered front seats are important
- More powerful engine appeals to your driving style
- Dual-clutch transmission’s quick shifts matter
- Better range (920 km) reduces fuel stop frequency
- European build quality and engineering appeal
- You prioritize driving dynamics and handling
- Skoda’s service network meets your accessibility needs
Choose the Nissan X-Trail if:
- Substantially larger boot space (585L vs 281L) is crucial
- Mild-hybrid technology’s efficiency appeals
- You prefer Japanese reliability reputation
- The distinctive X-Trail styling resonates with you
- Nissan’s flagship positioning matters
- You want something exclusive and uncommon
- Larger 12.3-inch driver display provides better information
- You’re willing to pay premium for CBU quality
- You value refined, quiet operation above engagement
- You accept front-wheel-drive limitations
Final Thoughts: Two Paths to Premium SUV Excellence
The Skoda Kodiaq and Nissan X-Trail represent two compelling but distinctly different approaches to the premium three-row SUV segment. The Kodiaq delivers outstanding value—more power, 4WD capability, better fuel economy, and more features at Rs. 3 lakh less than the X-Trail. For most buyers prioritizing rational decision-making, the Kodiaq makes overwhelming sense.
The X-Trail counters with exceptional cargo capacity, mild-hybrid efficiency, and the exclusivity of being Nissan’s flagship offering. However, the missing features like ventilated seats and powered front seats at this price point represent genuine shortcomings that undermine its value proposition.
Test drive both SUVs to experience their different characters. Pay attention to which interior environment feels more premium, which powertrain better suits your driving style, and whether the X-Trail’s cargo advantage justifies its price premium. Consider your typical cargo needs, driving conditions (4WD requirement), and long-term ownership costs.
In this premium three-row showdown, the Skoda Kodiaq emerges as the more rational choice for most buyers—better value, superior capabilities, and more comprehensive features. The X-Trail appeals to those seeking Japanese reliability, maximum cargo space, and the exclusivity of owning something truly uncommon on Indian roads.
