Škoda unveils the new Kodiaq RS, the Czech sporty SUV now with more power

The second generation of the Škoda Kodiaq was unveiled a year ago and shortly after went on sale in Spain, where it has gradually expanded its range of engines to meet the needs of potential buyers. It now adds a new version: the Kodiaq RS, the sportiest variant of an SUV that can seat up to seven.

The Škoda Kodiaq RS is easily distinguishable from the rest of the versions and trims thanks to a design that is distinctive and specific to the RS models of the Czech brand. At the front it features a different bumper at the bottom, with a smaller central air intake in favour of a more aggressive look on the sides, while at the rear the bumper features a diffuser-style trim into which the two exhaust outlets are integrated, with polished stainless steel finishers.

The sporty image is also given by the use of gloss black on numerous elements, such as the grille surround, the mirror housings, the upper window frames, the roof rails and even the badge on the tailgate. We must not forget the 20-inch alloy wheels exclusive to the RS models in polished black finish, behind which are red-painted brake calipers, which are two-piston units on the front axle for the seven-seat variant, while both variants fit ventilated brake discs on the front and rear axles. It can be chosen in eight body colours.

Inside, Škoda lets you choose between two designs for your Kodiaq RS. The first is the design called RS Lounge, which includes sports seats with integrated headrests, electric adjustment and Suedia upholstery in black artificial leather with red contrast stitching. This combination of materials and colours is also applied to other areas of the interior such as the dashboard, door panels and centre armrest. The second design, RS Suite, uses artificial leather upholstery with black perforated leather and red contrast stitching on the seats, and the front seats add a ventilation function.

Regardless of the design you choose, there is quite an interesting standard equipment list, which includes items such as:

• Tinted rear windows
• Matrix LED headlights with welcome and cornering functions
• LED rear lights with animated indicators
• Kessy Advanced system
• DCC Plus Dynamic Chassis Control
• Driving modes
• Canton sound system
• Virtual Cockpit with 10-inch screen
• 10-inch infotainment system
• Stainless steel pedals
• Lane keeping assist with Emergency Assist
• Traffic jam assist
• Extended pre-crash safety system
• Automatic distance control

Mechanically, the new Škoda Kodiaq RS is more powerful than its predecessor despite still using the 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine, which now delivers 265 CV, an increase of 20 CV over the previous generation, along with 400 Nm of torque. This torque is sent to all four wheels thanks to the all-wheel drive system and the 7-speed DSG gearbox. Unfortunately, the sound from its exhaust does not match its power due to regulations, so it comes as standard with the Dynamic Sound Boost system to fool our ears through the speakers with a more “powerful” sound.

Technical specifications of this car

Off-RoadSkoda Kodiaq16 versions · from 46,800 €