Skoda has confirmed that it will launch the Kodiaq RS performance SUV in India by June 2026. This marks the first time an RS-badged SUV will be introduced by the brand in the Indian market. The Kodiaq RS is based on the second-generation Kodiaq currently on sale in the country.
Powertrain & Performance
The Skoda Kodiaq RS is powered by an uprated 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine, the same unit seen in the Octavia RS. It produces:
265hp
400Nm of torque
This represents a significant increase of 60hp and 80Nm over the standard Kodiaq. The engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and comes with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system as standard.
Performance figures include:
0–100kmph in 6.3 seconds
Top speed of 231kmph
The SUV also gets upgraded braking hardware with slotted brake discs and two-piston callipers at the front. Adaptive dampers are standard globally, though confirmation for the India-spec model is still awaited.
Exterior Design
The Kodiaq RS features several sporty cosmetic updates over the standard model:
Restyled front bumper and wider air dams
Blacked-out grille replacing the chrome finish
Sporty 20-inch alloy wheels with red brake callipers
Blacked-out C-pillar, roof rails, mirror caps and window surrounds
Minor redesign to the rear bumper
Interior & Features
Inside, the cabin adopts a full black theme with red accents, including:
RS-branded, bolstered sport seats with integrated headrests
Contrast red stitching
13-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Fully digital driver’s display
Rotating physical knobs for HVAC and volume control
Expected Price & Rivals
The Skoda Kodiaq RS is expected to arrive in India as a CKD (Completely Knocked Down) unit, similar to the standard model. Pricing is likely to be in the range of ₹50 lakh to ₹60 lakh (ex-showroom).
It will compete with performance-oriented SUVs like the Volkswagen Tayron R-Line and MG Majestor.
