2018 has been a challenging year for car dealerships here. The Vehicle Emissions Scheme (VES) implemented, has become a huge determining factor for what cars dealers should sell. Singapore’s unique prioritisation of its air quality means that car models which have originally scored well with the old CEVS, may have now been priced out competitively, due to the new VES penalty.
The year also sees a greater emphasis placed on greener vehicles, with notable efforts by different manufacturers to show-off their efforts to make the world a better place.
Back to what really is important to us... we have tested close to 80 cars over the course of the year, enjoying the plush riding qualities of some, while taking some others to their very engineering limits to find out what really makes them great.

The car that stood out for us, is the Skoda Kodiaq, and we will tell you why it deserves the win.

Skoda made a comeback this year, into a market quite different from the one at its last departure. New emissions regulations have made some cars quite simply impractical to purchase. Diesel engines have also fallen victim to the Vehicle Emission Scheme (VES) significantly reducing offerings in the industry. The SUV is fast-becoming the vehicle of choice, with 8,370 registered units from different brands over the last 5 months.

The allure of the body style, due to its higher driving position, the hint of a fun and activity-filled lifestyle, coupled with practical utility room, and the simple ease of strapping your child into the seats, thanks to the taller ride height, have made these vehicles an easy choice for families. Engine performance and handling is also almost comparable to ordinary cars.

The Skoda Kodiaq is able to ferry 7 around, and even comes with an umbrella holder hidden in both front doors! The Czech brand has delivered a car with quality which rivals its German sister brand. It's 2.0 turbocharged engine puts power to all four wheels through a 7-speed DSG transmission, ensuring a sure-footed drive for the family. Its list of equipment and thoughtful touches like mechanical door protectors makes the Kodiaq quite the ideal workhorse for the occasional extended family.

Quality too is pretty high on the list, with very good fit and finish. We also like how the brand has been unapologetic about the use of inexpensive materials, but without the side effect of coming across as overall feeling cheap. In-fact, the Kodiaq does come across as a tad luxurious. Its 10-speaker Canton branded sound system produces rich sound within the cabin, and its infotainment unit is comprehensive, even featuring wireless charging for easier on-the-go charging.

Packaging is also one of the car’s strong points. With very good occupant space for front and middle row passengers. While the occasional +2 passengers actually have ample room.

Its 630 litres of cargo room with the last row folded down is already very generous, and with the middle row folded, you can even do the IKEA run without breaking a sweat, with 2,500 litres at your disposal. Skoda has also ensured proper storage for the Kodiaq’s cargo cover, keeping things neat and tidy.

With 320Nm of hauling ability from its turbocharged 2.0, the Kodiaq has enough puff to move the entire extended family, with cargo in-tow.

These are just some of the many qualities of why the Skoda Kodiaq wins the prestigious Oneshfit Car of the Year 2018 award. But do not just take our word for it, go ahead together with your family, and take the car for a test drive!

Read the full review here!

Check here for our other Car of the Year Category Winners!

Check here for our other Car of the Year Nominees!

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