:Skoda Kodiaq RS ready for launch in India: Booking starts from this date.

Skoda Auto India today confirmed that bookings for the new Skoda Kodiaq RS SUV will begin on June 22, 2026, marking the arrival of the brand’s first SUV to wear the RS badge. Compared to the standard model, it brings a more aggressive design theme, RS-specific cabin enhancements and a higher-output version of the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. Skoda Performance will import the SUV as a completely built unit (CBU), and like the Octavia RS, the Kodiaq RS is also expected to be offered in limited numbers in India. As a completely built unit (CBU), the Kodiaq RS will be positioned well above the standard Kodiaq in terms of pricing. The performance SUV is expected to be priced between Rs 50 lakh to Rs 55 lakh (ex-showroom), for reference the regular Kodiaq is currently priced at Rs 36.99 lakh to Rs 46.99 lakh (ex-showroom).

First of all, talking about the powertrain, the new Skoda Kodiaq RS will have a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine that produces 265hp and 400Nm of torque. Compared to the regular Kodiaq, the RS makes an additional 60hp and 80Nm of torque. Notably, the engine has been tuned to be identical to the unit powering the Octavia RS and Golf GTI. It comes with a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox that supplies power to all four wheels. The Kodiaq RS also benefits from advanced braking components, including slotted brake discs and twin-piston front calipers. However, it is unclear whether the India-spec model will get adaptive suspension, a feature that is currently offered on the international versions of the performance SUV. In terms of design, the Kodiaq RS retains the overall shape and three-row layout of the standard Kodiaq but introduces a series 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. Along the sides, the SUV features larger alloy wheels measuring 20 inches in international markets, complemented by red brake callipers. Black-finish exterior details replace many chrome elements, with the window surrounds, ORVM housings and roof rails getting the darker treatment.

At the rear, the Kodiaq RS gets RS badging, a redesigned bumper with black inserts and LED tail-lamps attached to smoked trim elements. A roof-mounted spoiler and black roof rails differentiate it from the standard model. Skoda also offers the Kodiaq RS in special colors overseas, including the Hyper Green shade associated with the brand’s RS models. Although India-specific color options are not confirmed yet, similar finishes may be offered here too. Overall, the changes are focused on giving the SUV a more performance-oriented appearance while maintaining the practicality and premium status of the standard Kodiaq.