Skoda Auto India has officially started bookings for the new Skoda Kodiaq RS from today. Interested customers can book the SUV online or by visiting their nearest Skoda dealership. Skoda will import the performance SUV as a completely built unit (CBU) and is expected to be priced between Rs 50 lakh and Rs 55 lakh (ex-showroom). For reference, the regular Kodiaq currently retails at Rs 36.99 lakh to Rs 46.99 lakh (ex-showroom).The new Skoda Kodiaq RS will be powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine that produces 265 PS and 400 Nm of torque. Compared to the regular Kodiaq, the RS delivers an additional 60 hp and 80 Nm of torque. Notably, the engine is tuned identically to the unit that powers the Octavia RS and Golf GTI. It comes paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which sends power to all four wheels. The Kodiaq RS also benefits from updated brake components, including slotted brake discs and two-piston front calipers. However, it is not clear whether the India-spec model will get adaptive suspension, a feature that is currently offered on international versions of the performance SUV.
In terms of design, the Kodiaq RS retains the general shape and three-row layout of the standard Kodiaq, but introduces a range of RS-specific design elements. These include a gloss black grille, Matrix LED headlights, a revised front bumper with larger air intakes and RS badging on the front fascia. On the sides, the SUV features larger alloy wheels that measure up to 20 inches in international markets, complemented by red brake calipers. Black finished exterior details replace many chrome elements, with the window surrounds, ORVM housings and roof rails getting a darker treatment.At the rear, the Kodiaq RS gets RS badging, a redesigned bumper with black inserts and LED taillights connected by a smoked trim element. A roof-mounted spoiler and black roof rails also set it apart from the standard model. Skoda also offers the Kodiaq RS in exclusive colors overseas, including the Hyper Green shade associated with the brand’s RS models. While India-specific color options are yet to be confirmed, similar finishes could be offered here. Overall, the changes focus on giving the SUV a more performance-oriented look, while maintaining the practicality and premium positioning of the standard Kodiaq.Moving on to the interior, the overall interior layout is the same as the standard Kodiaq, but features a cabin that combines RS-specific styling elements with the practicality of a three-row family SUV. The performance-oriented variant gets several unique interior enhancements, including sports seats with integrated headrests, leather and suede upholstery, red contrast stitching and RS branding at various touch points.In terms of features, it is expected to get a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen and 13-speaker Canton sound system with subwoofer, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a powered tailgate, a 360-degree camera, parking assist function, adaptive LED Matrix headlights, powered driver’s seat with seat memory function, climate control, climate support and heated. lighting, keyless entry, panoramic roof and more. Expected safety features include nine airbags, ESC, ABS with EBD, engine drag torque control, traction control, electronic differential lock, brake assist, electronic stability braking system, ISOFIX child mounts, hill start assist and hill descent control, Level 2 ADAS and more.
