Skoda Auto India today finally launched the new Skoda Kodiaq RS in the Indian market, priced at Rs 66.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The limited-run SUV quickly became a hit with enthusiasts across the country, and all 50 of the initial allocation have already been ordered. Now that all 50 units have been sold, it remains to be seen whether Skoda Auto India will release additional parts of the Kodiaq RS for the Indian market.
The new Skoda Kodiaq RS will be equipped with a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder turbo gasoline engine that produces 265 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. Compared to the regular Kodiaq, the RS makes an extra 60bhp and 80Nm of torque. Note that the engine is tuned in the same way as the unit that powers the Octavia RS and Golf GTI. It is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels. Skoda will import the performance SUV as a completely built unit (CBU). Skoda claims that the Kodiaq RS accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds and can reach a top speed of 231 km/h. The SUV is also equipped with larger brakes and adaptive suspension. The Kodiaq RS retains the standard model’s three-row layout and overall silhouette, but adds a few RS-specific styling cues. These include a gloss black grille, Matrix LED headlights, a revised front bumper with larger air intakes, RS badging, blacked-out exterior elements, red brake calipers and larger alloy wheels up to 20 inches in foreign markets.At the rear, the SUV gets RS badging, a redesigned bumper with black inserts, LED taillights paired with smoked trim, a roof spoiler and black roof rails. International markets also get exclusive colors like Hyper Green, though India-specific paint options are yet to be revealed. Inside, the cabin largely mirrors the standard Kodiaq, but the interior gains integrated headrests, leather and suede-like upholstery, red contrast stitching and sports seats with RS branding.In terms of specifications, the Kodiaq RS gets a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 10.24-inch digital instrument cluster, 13-speaker Canton audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, truck-equipped tailgate, 360-degree camera, park assist, driver’s seat with memory function, climate control function, three keyless front seats. entrance and panoramic hatch. Safety equipment is expected to include nine airbags, ESC, ABS with EBD, traction control, electronic differential lock, brake assist, hill start assist, hill descent control, ISOFIX mounts and Level 2 ADAS.
