Kodiaq vs 5008
WE SAY: HOW D’YOU GET SOMEONE TO BUY AN MPV? DISGUISE IT AS A CROSSOVER, OBVIOUSLY
Crossovers. Exciting times
The Skoda Kodiaq may not be very exciting, but it is very good. Brilliantly thought-through, superbly executed and important in a world where the only seven-seaters anyone really buys are SUV-shaped. Which is precisely why the 5008 isn’t an MPV anymore. The old car was an upright minicab of a thing – this new one is far more interesting. Largely because it’s based on, and is conceptually similar to, the smaller 3008.
I have many children...
Marvellous, the Kodiaq can accommodate them all. Its interior is functional above all else – the seats are easily tumbled and, for once, even with the third row up you get a passable amount of bootspace. Clever little features like door-edge protectors show Skoda has put plenty of thought into it.
So has Peugeot, but while the 5008’s interior isn’t quite as practical or usable (though the boot is technically bigger) as the Kodiaq’s, it’s the design that will win it fans. The i-Cockpit has been carried over from the 3008, and for wow factor in this segment it’s unrivalled. Pity the touchscreen is a bit laggy.
How do they drive?
Actually quite well, given the sheer size of it. Like the Pug, this one’s a petrol manual, and while it’s fine for everyday stuff, we’d go diesel if you need to do any heavy lifting. Steers responsively, rides pliantly and handles predictably. Not masses of fun, but among the more enjoyable ones.
What really irks about the 5008 is its driving position – so says every modern Peugeot review ever. We’re still not convinced by the little steering wheel, but here it’s executed well enough, and the 5008 doesn’t feel twitchy, or like it’s about to keel over in every bend. Ride’s good, too.
Anything else I need to know?
So impressed are we with the way the Kodiaq goes about its business, in the last two years it’s won not just one, but two TG awards. This is high praise indeed. It is quite simply all things to all families.
If the Kodiaq feels a little sensible, then the 5008 might be the car for you. Commendable for its design (until you park it next to a 3008) and mannerisms, but our hearts remain with the Skoda.