Skoda Kodiaq RS revealed globally

Skoda Auto has taken the wraps off the RS edition of the Kodiaq SUV. The Skoda Kodiaq RS gets a mechanical upgrade on the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine as well as some cosmetic and styling updates. Based on the second-generation model of the SUV, the Kodiaq RS produces more power than the regular variants. The new styling changes give it a bolder and more streamlined look. It remains to be seen whether the RS edition of the Kodiaq will be launched in India.

Read Also: Tata Curvv amasses over 8,000 sales within 2 months of launch

Skoda Kodiaq RS: What’s new?

In line with other Skoda RS models, the Kodiaq RS gets a glossy black finish for its grille frame, exterior mirror covers, upper window frames, roof rails, and D-pillars. This black finish gives the SUV a bolder look. It also bridges the colour inconsistency between the front of the vehicle and the darkened rear windows. Some parts of the sporty front bumper have also been finished in black. A horizontal light strip runs through the strip. The RS logo can be found on the tailgate and the grille.

Inside, the Skoda Kodiaq RS gets two design selections – RS Lounge and RS Suite. Both selections feature sports seats with integrated headrests, artificial leather upholstery, and red contrast stitching. The SUV also features a free-standing 13-inch infotainment display, a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, a 3-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel, ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, and more.

Powering the Skoda Kodiaq RS is the familiar 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine. However, on the RS variant, it produces a maximum power output of 265hp and 400Nm of torque. This is 60hp and 80Nm more than what the regular 2.0 TSI engine produces on the standard Kodiaq. The Kodiaq RS comes with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Johannes Neft, Škoda Auto Board Member for Technical Development, commended, “The all-new Kodiaq RS features a new, even more powerful 2.0 TSI engine, now with an output of 195 kW (265 hp), thus providing 15 kW (20 hp) more than its predecessor. Furthermore the new Kodiaq RS comes with all-wheel drive for the best possible traction on all surfaces. Ventilated brake discs on all four wheels and two-piston brake calipers on the front axle provide the necessary stopping power. The most dynamic Kodiaq perfectly blends sportiness with everyday practicality.”

Read Also: Waiting period for Mahindra Scorpio N and Classic reduced to 2 months

Conclusion

Skoda will launch the second-generation Kodiaq in India next year. It has been spotted testing in India on multiple occasions. It remains to be seen whether it will bring the RS model of the SUV to the country as well. The current-gen model of Skoda Kodiaq is priced at Rs 39.99 lakh. It rivals the likes of MG Gloster, Toyota Fortuner, Jeep Meridian, and Jeep Compass.