Skoda Auto India today finally launched the new Skoda Kodiaq RS in the Indian market, priced at Rs 66.99 lakh (ex-showroom). This limited-edition high-performance SUV quickly aroused strong interest from car fans across the country, and the first batch of 50 units has been reserved. With all 50 units now sold out, it remains to be seen whether Skoda Auto India will allocate more Kodiaq RS models to the Indian market.
The new Skoda Kodiaq RS will be powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that produces 265 hp and 400 Nm of torque. Compared to the regular Kodiaq, the RS offers an additional 60 hp and 80 Nm of torque. Notably, this engine is tuned to be the same unit that powers the Octavia RS and Golf GTI. It comes with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels. Skoda will import the high-performance SUV as a Completely Built Unit (CBU). Skoda claims the Kodiaq RS accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds and has a top speed of 231 km/h. The SUV also comes with bigger brakes and an adaptive suspension setup. The Kodiaq RS retains the standard model’s three-row layout and overall silhouette, but adds some RS-specific styling cues. These include a gloss black grille, matrix LED headlights, a revised front bumper with larger air intakes, RS badging, black exterior elements, red brake calipers and larger alloy wheels of up to 20 inches in overseas markets.The rear of the SUV features RS badging, a redesigned bumper with black inserts, connected LED taillights with smoked trim, a roof spoiler and black roof rails. Exclusive colors such as Super Green are also available for international markets, although India-specific paint options are yet to be announced. Inside, the cabin is largely the same as the standard Kodiaq, but with sports seats with integrated headrests, leather and suede-like upholstery, red contrast stitching and RS branding throughout.In terms of features, the Kodiaq RS comes with a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 10.24-inch digital instrument cluster, 13-speaker Canton sound system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, electric tailgate, 360-degree camera, parking assist, electric driver’s seat with memory function, heated front seats, three-zone climate control, ambient lighting, keyless entry and a panoramic sunroof. 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.