Skoda Expands Armoured Vehicle Lineup with New Kodiaq Armoured SUV

Škoda has taken a significant step forward in civilian vehicle security with the launch of its latest offering, the Kodiaq Armoured. Developed in collaboration with British-based security specialists UTAC Special Vehicles, this armoured SUV aims to offer enhanced protection without compromising on drivability or comfort. The model follows the success of Škoda’s previous Superb Armoured, which has sold nearly 500 units globally since its 2018 debut.

The Kodiaq Armoured is fully certified to PAS 300 and PAS 301 Civilian Armoured Vehicle standards, marking it as one of the most rigorously tested and secure vehicles in its category. These certifications are awarded after a series of demanding tests that assess the vehicle’s ability to handle payloads, acceleration, maximum speed, and crucially, its performance under fire and explosive conditions. The Kodiaq Armoured has successfully passed these tests, which included exposure to over 200 rounds of ammunition and evaluations of its resistance to blasts on the side, roof, and underfloor.

The Kodiaq Armoured comes equipped with bullet-resistant glass and armoured steel, capable of withstanding various types of firearms, including handguns and assault rifles. It also offers protection against grenade blasts and high explosives. Škoda's engineering team worked closely with UTAC to ensure that the modifications for protection did not disrupt the vehicle’s overall design, ensuring the Kodiaq Armoured maintains a close resemblance to the standard production model.

Despite the substantial enhancements to its structure, the SUV manages to preserve many of the practical features and comfort levels of the standard Kodiaq. This includes its spacious interior, which can seat five occupants and provides a substantial boot space of over 2,000 litres—a rarity in the armoured vehicle segment.

One of the major engineering challenges with armoured vehicles is managing the added weight from the protective materials. To counterbalance this, Škoda has outfitted the Kodiaq Armoured with uprated suspension and enhanced braking systems, allowing it to handle similarly to the non-armoured version. Additionally, all four wheels come fitted with a tyre retention system, ensuring that even if punctured, the tyre stays on the rim and allows the vehicle to maintain stability and control.

The integration of these features shows that Škoda has focused on making the Kodiaq Armoured not just a fortress on wheels, but a practical and user-friendly SUV for everyday use—whether in high-risk environments or not.

Inside the vehicle, the Kodiaq Armoured is loaded with advanced technology, including an 8-inch touchscreen communications hub with GPS, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto functionality. Additionally, it features an emergency lighting and siren system, offering further safety measures in case of emergencies.