Skoda has confirmed that a hotter, RS-badged Kodiaq will join its international line-up with a teaser of the new performance SUV. While there is no official confirmation, the Kodiaq RS is expected to be unveiled at the upcoming Paris motor show in October. The model was also spied testing at the Nurburgring just before the teaser came out.
Powering the performance version of the seven-seat SUV is a 240hp/500Nm, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, twin-turbo diesel engine, which is shared with the Volkswagen Tiguan sold internationally. In the Tiguan, the motor helps achieve a 0-100kph time of 6.5sec and a top speed of 230kph.
Unlike the only other RS model in Skoda’s line-up, the Octavia, the Kodiaq RS won’t get a petrol option, nor will it get the choice of a manual transmission; only a dual-clutch automatic unit is expected as standard. Like the standard model sold in India, all-wheel-drive will be offered as standard.
Besides the more powerful motor, expect a retuned suspension and a tweaked steering to aid cornering ability.
In terms of styling, the Kodiaq RS is expected to sport design elements similar to the Octavia RS, both outside and inside, with the grille, LED headlamps, bumper, outside mirror and alloy wheels to be finished in black. The cabin is also expected to get an all-black theme with 'RS' badges and unique stitching on the upholstery.
More details will be revealed closer to the official debut. Stay tuned for more.
Also see:
2018 Skoda Kodiaq review, road test
2017 Kodiaq vs Endeavour vs Tiguan comparison
2017 Skoda Kodiaq India video review
Skoda plots 6 new models for VW Group’s India comeback