Skoda Auto India has officially announced that bookings for the new Skoda Kodiaq RS will commence on June 22, 2026. This marks the debut of the brand's first SUV to carry the RS badge, bringing a more aggressive design, RS-specific interior upgrades, and a higher-output version of the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine compared to the standard model. The launch is anticipated by the end of this month. Ahead of its arrival, here are the top five things you need to know about the upcoming Skoda Kodiaq RS.
Engine and Performance
The new Skoda Kodiaq RS is powered by a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine producing 265hp and 400Nm of torque. This represents an increase of 60hp and 80Nm over the regular Kodiaq. Notably, the engine is tuned identically to the unit found in 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 callipers. However, it remains unclear whether the India-spec model will receive adaptive suspension, a feature currently offered on international versions of the performance SUV.
Design
In terms of design, the Kodiaq RS retains the overall shape and three-row layout of the standard Kodiaq but introduces a range of RS-specific 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. Along the sides, the SUV features larger alloy wheels measuring up to 20 inches in international markets, complemented by red brake callipers. Black-finished exterior details replace several chrome elements, with the window surrounds, ORVM housings, and roof rails receiving a darker treatment.
At the rear, the Kodiaq RS gets RS badging, a redesigned bumper with black inserts, and LED tail-lamps linked by 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 colours overseas, including the Hyper Green shade associated with the brand's RS models. While India-specific colour options are yet to be confirmed, similar finishes could be offered here. Overall, the changes focus on giving the SUV a more performance-oriented appearance while retaining the practicality and premium positioning of the standard Kodiaq.
Expected Price
Skoda will import the performance SUV as a completely built unit (CBU), and it is expected that, like the Octavia RS, the Kodiaq RS will 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 currently retails from Rs 36.99 lakh to Rs 46.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
Interior
Moving inside, the overall interior layout is the same as the standard Kodiaq but features a cabin that combines RS-specific styling elements with the practicality of a three-row family SUV. The performance-oriented variant receives several unique interior enhancements, including sport seats with integrated headrests, leather and suede-like upholstery, red contrast stitching, and RS branding across various touchpoints.
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 is also included. Overall, the Kodiaq RS interior focuses on combining performance-inspired detailing, premium equipment, and everyday usability without compromising on passenger comfort or practicality.
Features and Safety
Features-wise, it is expected to get a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 13-speaker Canton sound system with a subwoofer, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a powered tailgate, a 360-degree camera, park assist function, LED Matrix adaptive headlights, powered driver's seat with memory function, heated front seats with thigh support extenders, three-zone climate control, ambient lighting, keyless entry, panoramic sunroof, and more. Expected safety features include nine airbags, ESC, ABS with 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.
