Skoda Auto India has officially started bookings for the new Skoda Kodiaq RS from today. Interested customers can book the SUV online or visit their nearest Skoda dealership. Skoda will launch the SUV as a completely built unit (CBU) and is expected to be priced between Rs 50 lakh and Rs 55 lakh (ex-showroom). For reference, the regular Kodiaq currently retails from Rs 36.99 lakh to Rs 46.99 lakh (ex-showroom).The new Skoda Kodiaq RS will be powered by a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine that produces 265hp and 400Nm of torque. Compared to the regular Kodiaq, the RS offers 60hp and 80Nm of torque. Apparently, the engine is powered by the same unit that powers the Octavia RS and Golf GTI. It comes mated to a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox, which sends power to all four wheels. The Kodiaq RS also benefits from upgraded braking equipment, including brake discs and twin-piston front calipers. However, it is not known whether the India-spec model will receive adjustable suspension, a feature that is offered on the global models of the performance SUV.
In terms of design, the Kodiaq RS retains all the features and three lines of the regular Kodiaq but features several RS design variants. These include a gloss black grille, Matrix LED headlights, a redesigned front bumper with larger air intakes and an RS badge on the front fascia. On the sides, the SUV has large alloy wheels that measure up to 20 inches in international markets, paired with red brake callipers. The black exterior features several chrome elements, window surrounds, ORVM housings and roof rails receive the black treatment.At the rear, the Kodiaq RS gets RS badging, a redesigned bumper with black inserts and LED tail lamps paired with a smoked element. The spoiler on the roof and the black roof are also different from the standard model. Skoda also offers the Kodiaq RS in a range of exterior colors, including the Hyper Green shades associated with the RS model range. Although the options for the Indian version are not confirmed, similar conclusions can be given here. Overall, the updates focus on giving the SUV a more stylish look while maintaining the Kodiaq’s performance and premium looks.Moving on inside, the interior looks the same as the regular Kodiaq but features a cabin that combines the styling of the RS model with the practicality of a three-row family SUV. Performance variants receive a number of unique interior enhancements, including sports seats with integrated headrests, leather and suede-like upholstery, contrasting red stitching and RS branding on various models.Smartly, it is expected to get a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 13-speaker Canton sound system with subwoofer, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, powered tailgate, 360-degree camera, park assist function, LED Matrix adaptive headlights, memory-controlled driver’s seat, three front seats with climate control, front controls, three climate control keyless entry, panoramic sunroof and more. Expected safety features include nine airbags, ESC, ABS with EBD, engine torque control, traction control, electronic differential lock, brake assist, electronic stability braking system, ISOFIX mounts child seat, hill start assist and hill descent control, Level 2 ADAS and more.
