What to expect from upcoming Skoda Kodiaq RS?

Skoda India has confirmed it will launch the Kodiaq RS performance SUV by June 2026. This will be the first Skoda SUV in India to wear the RS badge, sitting above the standard Kodiaq with sportier cosmetic updates and a stronger mechanical package.

The Kodiaq RS will be powered by a higher-output version of the 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine, paired with a dual-clutch automatic and all-wheel drive. It is also expected to arrive as a CBU import, which could make it a limited-run product. Final equipment levels for the India-spec car are still to be confirmed.

What engine and gearbox will the Skoda Kodiaq RS get?

Same Octavia RS engine, tuned for SUV duty

The Kodiaq RS will be powered by the same 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that does duty in the previously launched Octavia RS. In this application, it produces 265hp and 400Nm - an increase of 60hp and 80Nm over the standard Kodiaq. It will be paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic and an all-wheel-drive system.

Skoda claims the SUV can do 0-100kph in 6.3 seconds, with a top speed of 231kph. The RS also gets upgraded braking hardware, including slotted brake discs and two-piston calipers up front.

What will the Skoda Kodiaq RS exterior be like?

RS styling and sportier 20-inch wheels

The Kodiaq RS gets sportier styling over the standard SUV. Up front, it gets a blacked-out grille, reshaped bumper elements and larger air openings that give it a more performance-focused look.

On the sides, you’ll see 20-inch alloy wheels with red brake calipers, along with a blacked-out C-pillar, mirror caps and roof rails. The rear stays close to the standard Kodiaq, although the bumper design is slightly revised.

What will the Skoda Kodiaq RS interior be like?

All-black cabin theme with RS-specific touches

Inside, the Kodiaq RS gets an all-black cabin with red accents and red contrast stitching. The seats are heavily bolstered and carry RS branding on the integrated headrests. The model also features a large 13-inch touchscreen, a digital instrument display, and rotating control knobs for functions such as climate control and volume. 

The Kodiaq RS is also expected to get a richer feature list, including three-zone climate control, a powered tailgate, powered, ventilated, heated and massaging front seats, ambient lighting, a heads-up display and multiple wireless chargers.

Will the India-spec Kodiaq RS get adaptive suspension?

Standard globally, India specification still unclear

The Kodiaq RS is sold internationally with adaptive dampers as standard, adding flexibility between comfort and sportier driving modes. However, Skoda has not yet confirmed whether the India-spec model will get this feature.

That decision could depend on final specification, pricing strategy and how Skoda positions the RS in the market.

What safety features will the Skoda Kodiaq RS get?

9 airbags, Level 2 ADAS and 5-star Euro NCAP rating

Internationally, the Kodiaq RS comes equipped with 9 airbags, a Level 2 ADAS suite, and key features like electronic stability control, hill-hold assist, and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold.

It also includes parking assistance features such as a 360-degree camera along with front and rear parking sensors. Notably, the Kodiaq range carries a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

What will the Skoda Kodiaq RS price be?

CBU import could push pricing above standard SUV

Unlike the standard Kodiaq, which is assembled locally, the Kodiaq RS is expected to come to India as a completely built unit (CBU). This suggests it will be priced significantly higher and could be offered in limited numbers. Expected pricing is around Rs 55 lakh to Rs 60 lakh (ex-showroom).

What are the Skoda Kodiaq RS rivals in India?

Will target premium three-row and performance SUVs

The Kodiaq RS is expected to rival premium SUVs such as the upcoming Volkswagen Tayron R-Line,  and the MG Majestor, depending on its final price and positioning.

It will also overlap with higher trims of full-size SUVs, like the Toyota Fortuner and Jeep Grand Cherokee, though its key differentiator will be its stronger performance focus and RS branding.