Green light for blue lights: Škoda Kodiaq gains Met Police seal of approval
For more than 20 years, Škoda has been a trusted partner to the UK’s emergency services, supplying dependable, high-performance vehicles that keep pace with the toughest demands on the road.
From rapid response units to traffic patrol cars, the brand’s reputation for reliability, safety and value for money has made it a mainstay in police, ambulance and fire fleets nationwide. Now, that legacy takes another step forward with the new, second generation Kodiaq having successfully passed the rigorous Metropolitan Police brake test, earning approval for operational use across the force. Following on from the first-generation Kodiaq model, which was used extensively by all three emergency services during its seven-year production run, the new model offers services an improved combination of practicality, safety features and efficiency.
Having been submitted for extensive testing, the Kodiaq SE 2.0 TDI DSG 193 PS 4x4 diesel five-seat model has been officially approved for emergency services fleets. As part of the approval process, the Kodiaq was required to pass the Met Police Brake Test. Widely regarded as the most demanding in the industry, the Brake Test simulates the high-speed scenarios emergency drivers face every day with repeated stops from high speed designed to test components to their limits.
This approval not only clears the way for the model’s adoption by the UK’s largest police service but also reinforces Škoda’s standing as a manufacturer whose vehicles are ready for duty from day one. In addition to meeting all required standards in terms of performance, the Kodiaq also excels for practicality. The five-seater variant delivers one of the biggest boot volumes in the SUV sector, with 910 litres on offer with the rear seats in position and up to 2,105 litres available with them folded.
Emergency services drivers will also benefit from a host of innovations and features designed to make life easier and safer on the road. The SE model comes generously equipped with tri-zone climate control, heated front seats and a rear-view camera, along with Blindspot detection and Front Assist with braking reaction to vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists. Škoda’s partnership with the UK’s emergency services stretches back more than two decades.
The Octavia has long been a familiar sight in police livery, valued for its blend of performance, spaciousness, and low operating costs. The Superb, with its motorway-cruising comfort and durability, became a favourite for specialist roles such as motorway patrols and armed response units. More recently, the Kodiaq and Enyaq have brought SUV capability and electrified powertrains to the fleet, earning their stripes in both urban and rural environments.
This proven track record has cemented Škoda as one of the most trusted names in emergency service mobility. Škoda offers a ‘one-stop shop’ package for emergency services fleets. Škoda fleet can provide the vehicles fully converted to suit specific requirements, and fleet managers have the peace of mind that the conversion, breakdown recovery, service, maintenance and repair requirements are built into one package.