Skoda Kodiaq RS Is A Spicy Family Hauler With 262 HP

The fastest version of the Kodiaq looks more aggressive and comes packed with features

Skoda has detailed the entire lineup of the second-generation Kodiaq, announcing the return of the sporty RS trim in all its aggressive glory. Branded as the vRS in the UK (thanks to Ford holding the rights to “RS” over there), this latest Kodiaq RS is the most powerful version of Skoda’s biggest SUV, delivering a punchy 262 horsepower with standard all-wheel drive.

The Kodiaq RS gets its own set of styling flourishes, inside and out. Up front, you’ll find RS-specific bumper intakes flanking the grille, which itself wears an RS badge like a badge of honor. Standard 20-inch Elias wheels fill the arches, while dual stainless steel exhaust pipes peek out from the rear. As a final touch, Skoda’s signature full-width reflector sits across the lower fascia, reminding everyone in your rearview that this isn’t just another Kodiaq.

Glossy black accents on the bumpers, grille, mirror caps, window surrounds, D-pillar, and Skoda lettering are borrowed from the lesser Kodiaq Sportline, as are the body-colored side skirts. But on the RS, these elements come together with a sharper, more aggressive edge.

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The performance flagship of the Kodiaq lineup is fitted with the turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI Evo four-cylinder engine. The mill generates 262 hp (195 kW / 265 PS) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque, representing an increase of 20 hp (15 kW) over its predecessor. Power is transmitted to all four wheels, through a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission.

This is the fastest Kodiaq yet, sprinting from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 6.3 seconds, or 6.4 seconds for the slightly heavier seven-seater. And for those who frequent the Autobahn, the RS tops out at a respectable 231 km/h (144 mph).

The Skoda Kodiaq RS comes standard with progressive steering, selectable driving modes (Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport, Individual, Snow, and Off-Road) as well as the DCC Plus suspension system with 15 different settings for the adaptive dampers. To spice things up, Skoda threw in a “Dynamic Sound Boost” system which claims to artificially “enhance” the engine tone.

Step inside, and the RS badging continues to make itself known. Power-adjustable sports seats with integrated headrests, an RS emblem on the steering wheel, stainless steel pedals, and a dark theme with red contrast stitching deliver a hint of sportiness. The standard Suedia / artificial leather upholstery on the seats, dashboard, and door cards, can be optionally traded for a combination of genuine perforated leather / artificial leather.

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Tech-wise, the SUV comes with dual 10-inch screens for the digital cockpit, although a larger 13-inch infotainment display is available as an option. The standard equipment list is generous, including LED Matrix headlights with animated graphics, acoustic glass, and a Canton sound system.

Skoda hasn’t dropped any hints on the price for the Kodiaq RS yet, though it’s safe to say it’ll sit atop the lineup as the priciest model. Still, even fully loaded, it’s expected to undercut the equivalent VW Tayron, making it a more budget-friendly option in the performance SUV space.