Introducing the Skoda Kodiaq RS: Reinforced top model without hybrid
Skoda is relaunching the Kodiaq RS, which was very popular in the past. It gets a petrol engine with 195 kW. However, the internal competition is tough.
(Image: Skoda)
For many years, Skoda has been so successful with the RS offshoots of various models that it is almost surprising that not every model is offered with such a version. Following the launch of the revised Octavia RS in fall 2024, the new Kodiaq RS is now available to order. It follows the familiar pattern with a subtle sharpening of the design and the most powerful drive in this SUV.
Tailored to the target group
Skoda has refrained from adding all kinds of spoilers to the top model of the SUV. The most obvious differentiation from the civilian models is at the front, which appears somewhat wilder with larger cooling air vents. The majority of the target group will probably like it this way. Standard equipment includes 20-inch rims, matrix lights and an adaptive chassis. Surprisingly, Skoda makes a small difference in the size of the front brake discs between the five- and seven-seater: in the latter, they are a whole 5 mm larger at 340 mm. This makes no difference to the driver, but it does increase the logistics effort for the manufacturer.
Skoda Kodiaq RS (4 Bilder)
Skoda
)No hybrid
The two-liter four-cylinder engine produces 195 kW and offers a maximum torque of 400 Nm, which is available between 1650 and 4350 rpm. All-wheel drive is not an option, nor is the dual-clutch transmission. This is the internally named DQ381 transmission with seven gears, whose clutches run in an oil bath. A standard sprint time of 6.3 seconds is sufficient, with an electronic speed limiter at 231 km/h. The tank holds 58 liters, from which the SUV consumes between 8.2 and 8.5 liters every 100 km in the WLTP. The drive system does not feature hybridization.
Videos by heise
Internal competition
The Kodiaq RS is available from 57,900 euros, and the standard equipment is extensive. The list of possible extras is short, but it certainly has what it takes to push the price up by a few thousand euros. The big items include the auxiliary heating (1190 euros), the large sunroof (1300 euros), the third row of seats (1320 euros) and running boards for 1110 euros. One of the Kodiaq RS's direct competitors is the Enyaq 85x, which offers 15 kW more and is in a similar financial league. Those who need it even faster can hope that Skoda will also offer the recently revised Enyaq as an RS again. The drive system is likely to be the same as that already offered in other models on this platform. The system output is 250 kW and the maximum torque is 545 Nm.
(mfz)