R SUV

The Kodiaq gets the RS treatment. But is it worthy of this badge that it proudly flaunts?

- Ravi Ved

The Skoda Kodiaq is a full-size SUV with a high dose of practicality and clever features. And, despite its size and proportions, it drives surprisingly well. The 2.0-litre diesel that it comes with has a good mid-range and is just right for daily use. It even handles well for a car that is big and heavy. But, still, sometimes you wish that the engine could be a bit more energetic. It leaves you wanting more. And if all this sounds familiar, then don’t worry, Skoda has come up with the answer – and it’s called the Kodiaq RS.

This one isn’t just a rebadged, sportier looking variant of the Kodiaq though. This is the real deal! The Kodiaq RS lapped the 20.8km Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit in just 9:29.84 minutes – making it the fastest production 7-seat SUV around the circuit. It’s a family car with enthusiastic aspirations. But can it perform equally well on both fronts?

Devil is in the details

The Kodiaq RS doesn’t look very different from the standard model, at least in its overall design. Skoda has managed to give it a sporty appearance by adding some new elements, like the new 20-inch alloy wheels, red brake callipers, sportier looking bumpers and gloss black bits all around. The RS badges on the front grille and on the tailgate make its performance aspirations clear. Just like the Octavia RS, Skoda has done well to ensure that the Kodiaq RS exudes sportiness and aggression, but without undergoing too many changes in its overall design.

Sporty & spacious

Much of the interior remains unchanged. The layout of the dash is identical to the standard version, with the vertically stacked air-con vents, climate control knobs and touchscreen taking centre stage. It’s the choice of materials used that sets the Kodiaq RS apart.