New Delhi: Skoda Auto India has launched the Kodiaq RS at an introductory price of ₹66.99 lakh (ex-showroom), marking the debut of the performance-oriented RS badge on an SUV in the Indian market.

Imported as a completely built unit (CBU), the flagship seven-seater SUV has received an enthusiastic response, with the first batch of 50 units selling out within six minutes of bookings opening on June 22.

Premium positioning

The Kodiaq RS sits above the Selection (L&K) variant in the Kodiaq lineup and is priced ₹20 lakh higher than the standard top-spec model.

Skoda Kodiaq prices (ex-showroom):

  • Lounge – ₹36.99 lakh
  • Sportline – ₹44.99 lakh
  • Selection (L&K) – ₹46.99 lakh
  • Kodiaq RS – ₹66.99 lakh

The RS variant is aimed at buyers seeking a combination of high performance, luxury and everyday practicality.

Powerful turbo-petrol engine

Powering the Kodiaq RS is a retuned 2.0-litre EA888 turbo-petrol engine that produces 265 bhp and 400 Nm of torque. Compared to the standard Kodiaq, the engine delivers an additional 61 bhp and 80 Nm.

The engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) and Skoda’s all-wheel-drive system.

According to the manufacturer, the SUV accelerates from 0-100 kmph in 6.3 seconds and has a top speed of 231 kmph, making it the fastest production Skoda model introduced in India.

Performance-focused upgrades

The Kodiaq RS receives several mechanical enhancements over the standard SUV.

These include Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) adaptive suspension with 15 damping settings, progressive steering for improved handling, and upgraded braking hardware featuring slotted brake discs and twin-piston front brake calipers.

These upgrades are designed to deliver sharper handling while maintaining ride comfort.

Sportier exterior styling

While retaining the familiar Kodiaq design, the RS variant features several visual enhancements.

The SUV gets gloss-black treatment for the grille, ORVMs, roof rails, window surrounds, D-pillar and badging, along with redesigned front and rear bumpers.

It rides on 20-inch alloy wheels with red brake calipers, while the rear features polished dual exhaust tips and a larger roof spoiler.

Customers can choose from four exterior colours:

  • Velvet Red
  • Magic Black
  • Moon White
  • Steel Grey

Feature-rich cabin

Inside, the Kodiaq RS adopts an all-black interior theme with red contrast stitching across the dashboard, steering wheel and seats.

The SUV comes equipped with RS-specific sports seats featuring integrated headrests and embossed RS branding.

Key features include:

  • 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • Three-zone automatic climate control
  • Dual wireless phone chargers
  • Frameless auto-dimming inside rear-view mirror
  • Rear sunblinds
  • 13-speaker Canton sound system with subwoofer

The electrically adjustable front seats offer ventilation, heating, massage, memory and thigh support functions.

The Kodiaq RS continues with a seven-seat configuration, although the third row is best suited for occasional use.

Safety features

On the safety front, the SUV is equipped with:

  • Nine airbags
  • 360-degree camera
  • Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
  • Electronic stability and traction control systems
  • All-wheel-drive capability for enhanced grip and stability

With limited availability and strong initial demand, the Kodiaq RS strengthens Skoda’s premium performance portfolio in India while offering buyers a unique blend of speed, luxury and practicality.