Skoda Kodiaq RS bookings start today: Expected price, specs and more

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 from Rs 36.99 lakh to Rs 46.99 lakh (ex-showroom).The new Skoda Kodiaq RS is powered by a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder turbo gasoline engine that produces 265 hp and 400 Nm of torque. Compared to the regular Kodiaq, the RS delivers an additional 60hp and 80Nm of torque. Remarkably, the engine is tuned identically to the unit that powers the Octavia RS and Golf GTI. It is paired with a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox, which sends power to all four wheels. The Kodiaq RS also benefits from upgraded braking components, including slotted brake discs and twin-piston front calipers. However, it remains unclear whether the India-spec model will receive adaptive suspension, a feature 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. It includes a gloss black grille, Matrix LED headlamps, a revised front bumper with larger air intakes and RS badging on the front fascia. On the sides, the SUV has larger alloy wheels measuring up to 20 inches in international markets, supported by red brake calipers. Black finished exterior details replace many chrome elements, with window surrounds, ORVM housings and roof rails receiving a dark treatment.At the rear, the Kodiaq RS gets RS badging, a redesigned bumper with a black insert and LED tail-lamps linked by a smoked trim element. A roof-mounted spoiler and black roof rails further differentiate it from the standard model. Skoda is also offering the Kodiaq RS in exclusive colors overseas, including the Hyper Green shade associated with the brand’s RS models. While the India-specific color options are yet to be confirmed, the same finish is likely to be offered here. Overall, the changes are focused on giving the SUV a more performance-oriented appearance while retaining the practicality and premium positioning of the standard Kodiaq.Moving inside, the general layout of the interior is the same as the standard Kodiaq but with a cabin that combines styling elements specific to the RS with the practicality of a three-row family SUV. The performance-oriented variant receives a number of unique interior enhancements, including sport seats with integrated headrests, leather and suede-like upholstery, red contrast stitching and RS branding on various touchpoints.Features-wise, it is expected to get a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 13-speaker Canton sound system with subwoofer, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a powered tailgate, a 360-degree camera, park assist function, LED Matrix adaptive headlights, powered driver’s seat with memory function, heated front seats without lights, unheated front seats, unheated front seats. entry, panoramic sunroof and more. The 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 seat mounts, hill start assist and hill descent control, Level 2 ADAS and more.