Skoda Auto India has started official bookings for the new Skoda Kodiaq RS from today. Interested customers can book the SUV online or visit the 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 between Rs 36.99 lakh and Rs 46.99 lakh (ex-showroom).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. 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 get adaptive suspension, a feature currently offered on the 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 number 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 gets larger 20-inch alloy wheels in international markets, complete with red brake calipers. Black exterior details replace a few chrome elements, while the window surrounds, ORVM housings and roof rails get a darker shade.At the rear, the Kodiaq RS gets RS badging, a redesigned bumper with black inserts and LED taillights paired with a smoked trim. A roof-mounted spoiler and black roof rails further distinguish it from the standard model. Skoda also offers the Kodiaq RS in exclusive exterior colors, including the Hyper Green shade associated with the brand’s RS models. Although India-specific color options are yet to be confirmed, similar finishes are likely to be offered here. Overall, the changes are aimed at giving the SUV a more performance-oriented look while maintaining the practicality and premium stance of the standard Kodiaq.Moving inside, 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 upgrades, including sports seats with integrated headrests, leather and suede-like upholstery, red contrast stitching and RS branding on various touch points.According to its specifications, it is expected to get a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen and 13-speaker Canton audio system with subwoofer, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, tailgate, 360-degree camera, park assist function, LED Matrix adaptive headlights, reinforced driver’s seat, heated front seats with memory support, triple front seats. climate control, ambient lighting, keyless entry, panoramic sunroof, etc. Expected safety features include nine airbags, ESC, ABS with EBD, engine traction 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, etc. includes
