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New Delhi: Skoda has confirmed that it will bring the Kodiaq RS performance SUV to India by June 2026. This will be the first RS-badged SUV from Skoda for the Indian market. The model will be based on the second-generation Kodiaq, which is already on sale in the country.
The Kodiaq RS is expected to arrive in India as a CKD unit, similar to the standard model. Pricing is likely to fall between Rs 50 lakh and Rs 60 lakh (ex-showroom). Once launched, it will compete with models such as the Volkswagen Tayron R-Line and the MG Majestor.
Under the bonnet, the Kodiaq RS will use a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol TSI engine. This is the same engine that was earlier offered in the Octavia RS. In the Kodiaq RS, the engine produces 265 hp and 400 Nm of torque. This is a significant increase over the standard Kodiaq, which gets lower power and torque figures. Power is sent to all four wheels through a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, along with an all-wheel-drive system.
In terms of performance, the SUV can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 6.3 seconds. The claimed top speed is 231 kmph. To handle the extra performance, Skoda has upgraded the braking system. The Kodiaq RS gets slotted brake discs and two-piston callipers on the front wheels. It also comes with adaptive suspension as standard, although it is not yet clear if this feature will be offered on the India-spec model.
The Kodiaq RS looks sportier than the regular version. At the front, it gets a redesigned bumper, larger air intakes and a blacked-out grille instead of chrome. The side profile remains largely unchanged, but there are black elements on the C-pillar, roof rails, mirror caps and window frames. The SUV rides on 20-inch alloy wheels, and the red brake callipers add a performance touch. At the rear, changes are limited to a slightly revised bumper.
Inside the cabin, the Kodiaq RS follows an all-black theme with red highlights. The seats are more heavily bolstered and come with RS branding on the headrests. Red stitching is used across the upholstery. Features include a 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster and rotary controls for climate and audio functions.
