Skoda Auto India has just announced that bookings for the new Skoda Kodiaq RS will begin on June 22, 2026. It marks the arrival of the brand’s first SUV to wear the RS badge and compared to the standard model, it adds a more aggressive design theme, an RS-specific cabin and a higher-end version. Turbocharged petrol engine. The launch is expected by the end of this month. Before its launch, let’s take a look at five things you need to know about the upcoming Skoda Kodiaq RS.Engine, performance 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 delivers an additional 60hp and 80Nm of torque. Notably, the engine has been tuned identically to the unit that powers the Octavia RS and Golf GTI. It is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox that sends power to all four wheels. The Kodiaq RS also benefits from upgraded braking components, including slotted brake discs and twin-piston front calipers. However, it is not yet clear whether the India-spec model will get adaptive suspension, a feature that is currently offered on the international version of the performance SUV.
Design Design-wise, the Kodiaq RS retains the standard Kodiaq’s overall shape and three-row layout but introduces a range of RS-specific design elements. These include a gloss black grille, matrix LED headlamps, a revised front bumper with larger air intakes and RS badging on the front fascia. On the sides, the SUV gets larger alloy wheels up to 20 inches in international markets, complemented by red brake calipers. Black finished exterior details replace many chrome elements, window surrounds, ORVM housings and roof rails get a darker treatment.At the rear, the Kodiaq RS gets RS badging, a redesigned bumper with black inserts and LED tail lamps that connect to a smoked trim element. A roof-mounted spoiler and black roof rails further distinguish it from the standard model. Skoda also offers the Kodiaq RS in exclusive colors overseas, including the hyper green shade associated with the brand’s RS models. While India-specific color options are yet to be confirmed, a similar finish could be offered here. Overall, the changes focus on giving the SUV a more performance-oriented appearance while maintaining the standard Kodiaq’s practicality and premium positioning.Expected priceSkoda will import the performance SUV as a completely built unit (CBU), and like the Octavia RS, the Kodiaq RS is expected to be offered in limited numbers in India. The performance SUV is expected to be priced between Rs 50 lakh and Rs 55 lakh (ex-showroom), for reference the regular Kodiaq is currently priced between Rs 36.99 lakh and Rs 46.99 lakh (ex-showroom).Admission Moving on to the inside, the overall interior layout is similar to the standard Kodiaq but features a cabin that combines the typical styling elements of the RS with the practicality of a three-row family SUV. The performance-oriented variant gets several unique interior enhancements, including sports seats with integrated headrests, leather and suede-like upholstery, red contrast stitching and RS branding at various touch points.
The front seats are expected to offer electric adjustment, memory functions and ventilation. An RS-specific perforated leather steering wheel with contrast stitching and paddle shifters. Overall, the Kodiaq RS interior focuses on combining performance-inspired details, premium equipment and everyday usability without compromising on passenger comfort or practicality.Features, safety In terms of features, it is expected to get a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen and 13-speaker Canton sound system with subwoofer, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a powered tailgate, a 360-degree camera, park assist function, LED matrix adaptive headlights, driver’s front seats with power seat, supported heat function. extenders, three-zone climate control, ambient lighting, keyless entry, panoramic sunroof and more. Expected safety features include nine airbags, ABS with ESC, EBD, engine drag torque control, traction control, electronic differential lock, brake assist, electronic stability braking system, ISOfix child seat mounts, hill start assist and hill descent control, level 2 ADAS and more.
