Skoda Australia has outlined a series of updates for the Kodiaq Select and Octavia Select ranges for 2026, with both adopting a new 1.5-litre turbo mild-hybrid petrol engine that offers improved efficiency while maintaining familiar outputs.
In the Kodiaq lineup, the new front-wheel drive ‘mHEV’ powertrain replaces the previous all-wheel-drive 2.0-litre 140TSI Select. Producing 110kW and 250Nm, the new Select grade is offered in either five- or seven-seat configuration and offers a combined fuel consumption of 6.0L/100km, down from 9.2L/100km in the outgoing AWD Select.
Alongside the mechanical change, the 2026 Kodiaq Select receives revised 19-inch alloy wheels and a shift from leather upholstery to cloth trim. Buyers can also specify a new Signature Package on both seating configurations, adding features such as leather-appointed seating, surround-view cameras, enhanced parking assistance, upgraded audio and additional seat adjustment and comfort functions.
Skoda says the revised Kodiaq range is intended to clearly separate efficiency-focused variants from the sport-oriented Sportline and RS grades. Prices are expected to be slightly lower at the base point given features are taken out.
The same mild-hybrid system has also been introduced for the 2026 Octavia Select, matching the 110kW/250Nm outputs of the previous Select 110TSI 1.4L petrol engine while delivering lower fuel use across both urban and combined cycles. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.1L/100km for the sedan and 5.2L/100km for the wagon, down from 6.1L/6.2L.
Equipment levels have been lifted, with items such as a power tailgate and keyless entry now standard, while smaller wheels have been introduced and are intended to improve ride comfort.
A Signature Package will also be offered on the 2026 Octavia Select mHEV, effectively taking the place of the former Sportline grade – the Octavia RS remains. This option brings additional luxury and technology features, including leather trim, advanced lighting and driver assistance upgrades.
Prices for the updated Kodiaq mHEV and Octavia Select mHEV models will be announced closer to the launch in early 2026.
