The first-generation Kodiaq was previously previewed as concept car named Škoda Vision S at the Geneva Motor Show 2016.

The changes made serve a functional purpose in making the Kodiaq more aerodynamic than before, by tweaking the bumpers and installing a new roof-mounted spoiler.

The facelifted Kodiaq can be had with a choice of 17- to 20-inch wheels and some variants have been updated for the sake of reducing drag, while the high-performance Kodiaq RS rides on a new set of 20-inch polished wheels finished in metallic black and equipped with aero plastic shields.

The biTDI version was discontinued on the RS and replaced by the 2.0 TSI 245 PS (180 kW) engine that was also found in Tiguan.

[16] Kodiaq Sportline brings new styling tweaks, some parts are made in black, sports seats, steering wheel in leather, big alloy wheels and pedals made from aluminium.

[17] The Kodiaq RS (vRS in the United Kingdom) was introduced at the Paris Motor Show in October 2018.

[18] It comes with Virtual Cockpit, a gloss black grille, 20" alloy wheels Xtreme, 17-inch red painted brake calipers, different front and rear bumper designs, heated front sports seats and full LED headlights.

[26]In November 2016, the Škoda Kodiaq was named the "Best Family Car in the World" by Top Gear Magazine.