Skoda has brought the Kodiaq RS to India at a price of Rs 66.99 lakh, and it arrives as one of the most exciting performance SUVs in the premium space. This is not just a bigger Kodiaq with a sport badge. It is a more powerful, better equipped and far more expressive version of the SUV, created for buyers who want family practicality without giving up speed, style or a proper premium feel.
The timing of the launch is important too. Performance SUVs are still a rare sight in India, especially ones that combine three row usability, all wheel drive, sporty styling and a strong feature list. The Kodiaq RS tries to cover all of that in one package. For customers who want something distinctive, fast and loaded with comfort features, this new Skoda has a very clear identity.
At the heart of the Kodiaq RS is a 2.0 litre turbo petrol engine that produces 265 PS and 400 Nm of torque. It is paired with a 7 speed dual clutch automatic gearbox and an all wheel drive system. That combination gives the SUV the kind of punch that should make it feel quick in the city and confident on the highway. Skoda has clearly positioned it as a driver focused SUV rather than just a family mover.
What also makes it appealing is the way it balances performance with real world practicality. The Kodiaq RS still offers the space and versatility of a large SUV, including a third row of seats. That means it can work as a premium family car during the week and still deliver a more exciting drive on weekends. It is this dual personality that gives the car its real appeal.
On the outside, the RS treatment is easy to spot. The SUV gets a blacked out grille, sportier bumpers, black accents, RS badging and 20 inch dual tone alloy wheels. Red brake calipers add to the performance look, while the dual exhaust setup at the rear gives it a proper sporty finish. These changes are not just cosmetic. They give the Kodiaq RS a stronger road presence and make it look more purposeful than the standard model.
Inside, Skoda has gone for a dark, sporty and premium cabin theme. The all black interior with red stitching and RS branding creates the right atmosphere for a performance SUV. The dashboard is dominated by a large 12.9 inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the driver gets a 10.25 inch digital display. The steering wheel also carries RS branding, which adds another layer of identity to the cabin.
Comfort and convenience are a major part of the package. The SUV comes with powered front seats that are both heated and ventilated, three zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, rear sunshades and an electric tailgate. There are also USB type C charging ports and twin wireless chargers, which make it easier for passengers to stay connected on longer drives. The 13 speaker Canton sound system is another standout feature for buyers who care about in cabin entertainment.
For families, one of the biggest strengths of the Kodiaq RS is that it does not sacrifice practicality for performance. The second row is roomy, the third row adds extra flexibility and the overall cabin layout is designed for real use, not just show. That makes it attractive to people who want one vehicle to handle both weekday commuting and long distance travel.
Safety is another strong point. The Kodiaq RS is equipped with nine airbags, level 2 ADAS, traction control, electronic stability control, hill start assist, hill descent control, tyre pressure monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, a 360 degree camera and all wheel disc brakes. It also gets acoustic windows for better cabin insulation. These features help make the SUV feel secure, modern and well rounded.
The Kodiaq RS does not have a direct rival in the Indian market in the strictest sense. That actually works in its favor. It sits in a niche where buyers are looking for something special, something that blends German engineering, sportiness and luxury in one package. It is less about practical comparison shopping and more about owning a performance SUV that stands apart from the crowd.
The Rs 66.99 lakh price tag puts it firmly in premium territory, but the car also gives buyers a lot in return. Strong performance, all wheel drive, a high quality cabin, advanced safety tech and genuine family usability make it a serious proposition for enthusiasts with the means to buy one. It is a car for someone who wants to enjoy the drive without giving up comfort or space.
In the end, the Skoda Kodiaq RS feels like a carefully judged halo product. It brings excitement to the brand’s SUV line up and gives Indian buyers a rare chance to own a performance focused three row SUV with a rich feature set. For those who want one car that can do family duty, long highway runs and weekend fun, this could be one of the most interesting launches of the year.