Skoda Auto India has expanded its premium SUV lineup with the launch of the Skoda Kodiaq RS at an ex-showroom price of Rs 66.99 lakh. Wearing the iconic RS performance badge for the first time on the Kodiaq in India, the flagship SUV combines sporty styling, a more powerful turbo-petrol engine, all-wheel drive and a feature-rich cabin.

The Kodiaq RS is being offered as a limited-run CBU import, with only 50 units allocated for the first batch, all of which were reportedly booked within minutes of bookings opening.

Positioned above the Laurin & Klement (L&K) variant, the new model becomes the quickest and most performance-focused Skoda SUV ever sold in the country.

Skoda Kodiaq RS: Sportier Design with Exclusive RS Styling

The Kodiaq RS distinguishes itself from the standard Kodiaq through a range of performance-inspired design upgrades. At the front, it features a gloss black butterfly grille with illuminated detailing, aggressive RS-specific bumpers and sleek Matrix LED headlamps. The muscular stance is further enhanced by blacked-out ORVMs, roof rails and window surrounds.

The profile is complemented by 20-inch Elias alloy wheels, red-painted brake calipers and RS badging on the front fenders. At the rear, connected LED tail lamps, dual exhaust finishers, a sporty roof spoiler and revised bumper design add to its athletic appearance. Despite the cosmetic enhancements, the SUV retains the elegant proportions of the second-generation Kodiaq while offering a more dynamic road presence.

265 PS Turbo-Petrol Engine Makes It the Fastest Skoda in India

Powering the new Kodiaq RS is Volkswagen Group’s updated 2.0-litre four-cylinder TSI turbo-petrol engine that now develops 265 PS and 400 Nm of peak torque. The engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch DSG automatic gearbox and Skoda’s intelligent 4×4 all-wheel-drive system.

Performance is where the RS truly stands apart. The SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds, making it the fastest production Skoda currently on sale in India. It also boasts an electronically limited top speed of 231 km/h. To complement the higher performance, Skoda has equipped the RS with adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC Plus), progressive steering and multiple drive modes that allow drivers to tailor the SUV’s dynamics for comfort or spirited driving.

Premium Cabin Loaded with Technology and Safety

Inside, the Kodiaq RS receives an exclusive sporty cabin finished in black with contrasting red stitching. The front sports seats feature integrated headrests, heating, ventilation and massage functions, while RS logos on the seats and steering wheel reinforce its performance character.

Key cabin highlights include:

• 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• 10-inch Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Canton premium sound system
• Three-zone automatic climate control
• Panoramic sunroof
• Wireless smartphone charger
• Powered front seats with memory function
• Ambient lighting
• Powered tailgate with virtual pedal.

On the safety front, the flagship SUV comes equipped with:

• Nine airbags
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Keep Assist
• Blind Spot Detection
• Front Assist with Autonomous Emergency Braking
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• 360-degree camera
• Park Assist
• Hill Descent Control
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• ISOFIX child seat mounts.

These features position the Kodiaq RS among the most comprehensively equipped premium three-row SUVs available in India.

Price, Variants and Rivals

The Skoda Kodiaq RS is priced at Rs 66.99 lakh (ex-showroom) and sits at the top of the Kodiaq range. Unlike the locally assembled Laurin & Klement variant, the RS is imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU) and is available in a single fully-loaded variant.

Its primary rivals in India include:

• Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line
• Toyota Fortuner Legender
• Jeep Meridian
• MG Gloster
• Nissan X-Trail

While some rivals offer diesel engine options or body-on-frame construction, the Kodiaq RS differentiates itself with its performance-focused turbo-petrol engine, premium European driving dynamics, sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and extensive technology package. Limited availability also adds an element of exclusivity for enthusiasts seeking a high-performance family SUV.

Also Read: US Auto Sales Remain Resilient in Q2 2026 Despite Inflation, Fuel Prices and Economic Uncertainty