Skoda India opened bookings for the Skoda Kodiaq RS yesterday and the performance SUV was sold out in just 6 minutes. Skoda has allotted only 50 units for India and the SUV will arrive via the CBU route. This translates to nearly 8 cars being booked every minute. The response is similar to last year’s Octavia RS story, which saw all units being sold out within 20 minutes of bookings opening.
The Kodiaq RS is the more performance focused version of the standard Kodiaq SUV. It also marks the first time Skoda has introduced a new RS product in India after the Octavia RS and is also the brand’s first ever RS SUV for the country. It should also be noted that prices have not been announced yet and are expected to be revealed at a later date.
Skoda Kodiaq RS – Exterior Design
In terms of design, the Kodiaq RS will to stand apart from the standard model with a more aggressive and sporty appearance. The SUV rides on 20 inch alloy wheels and features several blacked out elements that are characteristic of RS models. These include the grille surround, wing mirror covers, window trims, roof rails and D pillar, all finished in gloss black. The tailgate lettering is also finished in black, further enhancing its sporty identity.
RS specific front and rear bumpers add to the visual differentiation. The global model comes equipped with LED Matrix beam headlamps and advanced LED tail lamps with dynamic indicators. For India, customers can choose from four exterior colours including Moon White, Magic Black, Velvet Red and Steel Grey.
Skoda Kodiaq RS – Expected Interior Design and Features
The interior of the Kodiaq RS continues the sporty theme with a predominantly black cabin accented by red stitching. The SUV gets electrically adjustable front sports seats with memory function and integrated head restraints. It also features a multifunction leather steering wheel and sporty pedal covers. Acoustic front side windows improve cabin insulation and enhance comfort.
The dashboard houses a 10 inch digital instrument cluster and a 13 inch freestanding infotainment system with RS specific graphics and a dedicated welcome screen. A Canton audio system is expected to provide a premium audio experience. Other features include ambient lighting, decorative trim elements, heated rear seats and ventilated front seats. Premium upholstery options are also expected, although the final feature list for the Indian model is yet to be confirmed.
Skoda Kodiaq RS – Powertrain
Under the hood, the Kodiaq RS is powered by a 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 262 hp and 400 Nm of torque. This is 60 hp and 80 Nm more than the standard Kodiaq. Power is sent to all four wheels through an all wheel drive system paired with a 7 speed DSG automatic transmission.
Skoda claims a 0 to 100 kmph time of 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 231 kmph, making it the quickest Skoda ever offered in India. The SUV also gets a Dynamic Sound Boost system to enhance engine sound inside the cabin.
Driving Mode Select and the updated DCC Plus adaptive chassis system allow drivers to choose between multiple driving modes.
Skoda Kodiaq RS – Expected Price
The Kodiaq RS is expected to be priced between Rs 55 lakh and Rs 60 lakh, placing it firmly in the premium performance SUV segment. While it does not have any direct rivals, its pricing brings it close to several entry level luxury SUVs available in India.
Commenting on the milestone, Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said, “The RS has stood as a global icon for over half a century, with a passionate following in India for more than two decades. With the ‘Surrender’ campaign, we brought to customers a unique combination of performance and versatility in the Kodiaq RS. We are delighted, though not surprised, to see customers truly surrender to its motorsport heritage, 4×4 capability, 7 seat luxury, and its standing as the quickest Skoda in India.”