At first glance, this SUV looks like a sensible seven-seater for school runs and grocery shopping—but is it really a “sleeper” performance beast waiting to tear up the highway, or just a Kodiaq with a fancy badge and some red stitching?
Buying a luxury SUV in India today is more confusing than ever. You have the rugged, ladder-frame veterans that offer “presence” but ride like tractors, and then you have the soft, urban crossovers that offer comfort but feel a bit soulless. But every now and then, a car comes along that attempts to bridge that gap with a violent shove of horsepower.
If you’re planning to buy this car, here’s what you must know: the Skoda Kodiaq RS isn’t just the “top model” of the Kodiaq lineup. It is a fundamental shift in personality. I’ve spent over 12 years analyzing everything from the humblest hatchbacks to million-dollar supercars, and I can tell you—the RS badge on a Skoda carries a weight that enthusiasts respect.
Let’s dive into the Skoda Kodiaq RS review: Big Bear, and see if this second-generation performance SUV has the claws to match its growl.
The Alpha of the Pack: Quick Overview
The 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS is the high-performance pinnacle of the all-new second-generation Kodiaq. Launched in India as a niche enthusiast offering, it arrives via the CBU (Completely Built Unit) route, which immediately signals two things: it’s going to be exclusive, and it’s built to a global standard of fit and finish that is second to none.
While the standard Kodiaq focuses on being the ultimate “L&K” (Laurin & Klement) luxury lounge, the RS is built on the EA888 platform—the same legendary heart that beats inside the Octavia RS and the Volkswagen Golf GTI. With a massive 265 bhp on tap and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard, it is currently one of the quickest seven-seaters in the country, boasting a 0-100 km/h time that would make some German sportscars sweat.
Exterior Design Analysis: The Stealth Hunter
Skoda’s design philosophy has always been about “understated elegance,” and the Kodiaq RS takes that concept and adds a thick layer of aggression. It doesn’t scream for attention like a bright green supercar, but in the rearview mirror of the car ahead, it looks genuinely intimidating.
The RS Face
The front is dominated by a redesigned, octagonal grille finished in high-gloss black. There’s no chrome here; everything from the window surrounds to the roof rails has been “blacked out” for a stealthy, “de-chromed” look. The new Matrix LED headlamps are slimmer and sharper, featuring a Crystalline design that looks like a piece of jewelry when the DRLs are active.
Stance and Wheels
From the side, the “Big Bear” looks lower and more muscular. This is partly due to the 20-inch dual-tone “Elias” alloy wheels that fill the arches perfectly. Behind those spokes, you’ll find massive ventilated discs gripped by bright red brake calipers—the only real splash of color on an otherwise monochromatic exterior.
The Rear Aesthetic
At the back, Skoda has kept things tidy but purposeful. You get a full-width light bar that connects the C-shaped LED taillamps, and a revised rear bumper that houses two genuine, chrome-tipped exhaust pipes. Yes, genuine. In an era where most luxury SUVs use fake plastic exhaust garnishes, the Kodiaq RS still breathes through real metal.
Interior Design & Comfort: The Alcantara Sanctuary
Step inside, and the “luxury lounge” of the standard Kodiaq has been replaced by what I can only describe as a “Performance Cockpit.”
The RS Cabin Theme
The entire cabin is draped in a dark, all-black theme. The dashboard features a mix of soft-touch materials and Alcantara-like suede with contrasting red cross-stitching. It feels incredibly premium, but in a “technical” way rather than a “wooden-trim” way.
The Seats
The highlight is the Sport Comfort seats. These are heavily bolstered buckets with integrated headrests and the “RS” logo embroidered into the backrest.
- Ventilation and Massage: Unlike most “sporty” cars that sacrifice comfort, these seats are power-adjustable, ventilated, heated, and even feature a massage function.
- Support: On a winding mountain road, these seats hold you in place like a firm handshake.
The Tech Stack
The 2026 model brings a massive 13-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system to the center stage. It’s crisp, fast, and features Skoda’s new “Smart Dials”—tactile rotary knobs with integrated tiny screens that let you control the climate, volume, and drive modes without fumbling with a menu.
But wait, there’s a catch. While the middle row offers class-leading legroom and a dedicated climate zone, the third row remains best suited for children or very short trips. Size-wise, this is a large SUV, but it’s still a “5+2” rather than a true full-size seven-seater like a Gloster or an Alturas.
Engine Specifications & Performance: The Heart of the Matter
This is where the Skoda Kodiaq RS review: Big Bear moves from “impressive” to “addictive.” Under that sculpted hood lies the EA888 2.0-litre TSI engine, tuned to its most aggressive state for an SUV.
The Power Figures
We’re looking at 265 bhp and 400 Nm of torque. To put that in perspective, that’s 61 horsepower more than the standard Kodiaq.
Performance Statistics Table
| Specification | Details |
| Engine | 1984 cc Turbocharged Petrol (TSI) |
| Max Power | 265 bhp @ 5000–6500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 400 Nm @ 1650–4350 rpm |
| Transmission | 7-Speed Dual-Clutch (DSG) |
| 0–100 km/h | 6.3 Seconds (Claimed) |
| Top Speed | 231 km/h |
| Drive Type | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
The 7-speed DSG (Dual-Clutch Gearbox) has been recalibrated for the RS. In “Sport” mode, the shifts are lightning-fast and accompanied by a satisfying “burp” from the exhaust. The AWD system is electro-mechanical, capable of sending up to 85% of torque to a single wheel if it detects slip. It doesn’t just accelerate; it “claws” its way forward.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency: The Thirsty Predator
Let’s be honest: if you’re buying a 265 hp SUV, “Kitna deti hai?” is probably not your primary question. However, for those long highway tours, the numbers do matter.
- Claimed ARAI Mileage: 14.86 kmpl (Standard Kodiaq)
- RS Real-World City: Expect 7–9 kmpl in heavy urban traffic.
- RS Real-World Highway: You can achieve 11–12 kmpl if you’re gentle, but if you unleash the “Bear,” it will drop to single digits.
But here is the catch—the RS requires high-octane fuel (95 RON or higher) to deliver its full 265 bhp potential. Using regular 91 octane might result in a slight drop in performance and long-term engine smoothness.
Skoda Kodiaq RS Review: Big Bear (PART 2)
In Part 1, we unleashed the 265 hp “Big Bear” and felt that EA888 heart punch its way through the gears. We’ve explored the stealthy RS aesthetics and the Alcantara-wrapped sanctuary that manages to be both a cockpit and a family lounge. But as every Indian owner knows, a fast car is only as good as its manners on our unpredictable roads.
If you’re planning to buy this car, here’s what you must know: the Kodiaq RS isn’t just about raw power; it’s about a sophisticated electronic brain that keeps all that muscle in check. Let’s dive into the “DCC Plus” wizardry, the safety fortress, and the cold hard numbers that define this ultimate Skoda.
Features and Technology: The RS Brain
While the standard Kodiaq is loaded, the RS variant brings technical upgrades that justify its “Performance” tag.
- DCC Plus (Dynamic Chassis Control): This is the crown jewel of the RS. Unlike standard adaptive dampers, the “Plus” system features dual-valve technology—one for compression and one for rebound. With 15 adjustment stages, you can go from “Cloud-like” comfort for your parents to “Track-stiff” for your solo mountain runs.
- Canton 12-Speaker Sound: The 625W system with a dedicated subwoofer is specifically tuned for the larger cabin. Because the Kodiaq RS features acoustic glass, the audio remains crystal clear even when you’re doing triple-digit speeds.
- Smart Dials & 13-inch Screen: The new rotary “Smart Dials” are a masterstroke of ergonomics. They have tiny integrated screens that allow you to toggle between AC temperature, seat ventilation, and Drive Modes without taking your eyes off the road for more than a split second.
But here’s the catch: the 13-inch screen handles almost everything else. While the interface is fast, a physical button for the “Auto-Hold” or “ESC Off” would have been much appreciated by enthusiasts during spirited drives.
Safety Features: The 5-Star Fortress
Safety has always been a Skoda stronghold, and the 2026 Kodiaq RS is effectively a vault on wheels.
- 9 Airbags as Standard: This includes a front-center airbag to prevent occupants from colliding with each other, along with rear-side airbags—a rarity in this segment.
- Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems): The RS comes with a full suite, including:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB): Now with pedestrian and cyclist detection.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Works seamlessly from 0 to 210 km/h.
- Side Assist: Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot with a massive LED warning inside the mirror housing.
- 5-Star BNCAP/Euro NCAP: Based on its global MQB-Evo architecture, the Kodiaq is a certified safety leader, scoring high on both adult and child occupant protection.
Price and Variants: The Enthusiast’s Invoice
In India, the Kodiaq RS is positioned as a niche, high-performance alternative to the luxury Germans.
Skoda Kodiaq RS Price Table (Estimated On-Road, April 2026)
| Variant | Engine | Drivetrain | Price (Ex-Showroom) | Est. On-Road |
| Kodiaq RS | 2.0L TSI (265 hp) | AWD (4×4) | ₹ 59.90 Lakh | ₹ 74.50 Lakh |
Note: While the standard Kodiaq (Selection L&K) starts around ₹46 Lakh, the RS carries a significant premium due to its CBU/high-spec performance components.
Competitor Comparison: The Performance Gap
The Kodiaq RS sits in a unique “no-man’s land”—faster than the 7-seater veterans and more practical than the luxury 5-seaters.
| Feature | Skoda Kodiaq RS | BMW X3 xDrive20i | Toyota Fortuner |
| Power | 265 hp | 184 hp | 201 hp (Diesel) |
| 0–100 km/h | 6.3 Sec | 8.4 Sec | ~11.2 Sec |
| Seating | 7 Seats | 5 Seats | 7 Seats |
| Suspension | Adaptive (DCC+) | Standard | Rigid (Ladder) |
| Price (Ex-S) | ₹ 59.90 Lakh | ₹ 72.50 Lakh | ₹ 39.90 Lakh |
Pros and Cons: The Brutal Truth
Pros:
- Supercar-lite Performance: 0-100 in 6.3 seconds in a 7-seater is mind-bending.
- DCC Plus Versatility: The widest range between “Comfort” and “Sport” in the segment.
- Stealth Looks: It doesn’t scream for attention, but those who know, know.
- Build Quality: Global CBU standards with “Simply Clever” touches (like the umbrella in the door).
- Tech-Forward: The Smart Dials and 13-inch screen are genuinely helpful.
Cons:
- Thirsty: In Sport mode, fuel efficiency will drop to 5–6 kmpl.
- Third Row: Still best for kids; adults will feel cramped on long hauls.
- Firm Ride: Even in Comfort mode, the 20-inch wheels can feel “busy” over sharp edges.
- Pricey: Touching ₹75 Lakh on-road puts it close to Volvo and Audi territory.
Who should buy the Skoda Kodiaq RS?
You should buy the “Big Bear” if you are an enthusiast with a family. If you used to drive an Octavia RS but now need to carry kids, parents, and luggage, this is the only car that won’t make you feel like you’ve “given up” on your love for driving. It’s for the person who wants BMW-rivalling performance without the “look-at-me” German badge snobbery.
Who should avoid it?
Avoid the Kodiaq RS if you are a high-mileage tourer. The lack of a diesel engine and the thirst of that 265 hp motor will make your fuel bills astronomical. Also, if you live in a town with poor road infrastructure, the 20-inch wheels and low-profile tires will keep you in a constant state of “pothole anxiety.”
Expert Verdict: The Ultimate “One-Car” Solution
The Skoda Kodiaq RS review: Big Bear, brings us to a definitive conclusion: it is the best all-rounder for the wealthy petrolhead in India.
It manages to be three cars in one: a silent city cruiser in “Comfort” mode, a high-speed inter-state express in “Normal,” and a back-road beast in “Sport.” It isn’t cheap, and it isn’t efficient, but it is one of the most emotional and capable SUVs ever to wear the Skoda badge. If you have the budget and the passion, buy it before the world goes entirely electric.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Q1: How is the ground clearance of the Kodiaq RS for Indian roads?
At 190mm (unladen), it’s more than enough for city speed breakers and monsoon-affected roads. However, the 20-inch alloys are expensive—avoid hitting deep craters at high speeds.
Q2: Does it have a panoramic sunroof?
Yes, the India-spec Kodiaq RS comes standard with a massive panoramic sunroof that stretches across the first two rows.
Q3: Can it run on regular 91-octane petrol?
It can, but it is highly recommended to use 95 RON (XP95) or higher. Regular fuel will cause the engine to pull back power and will hurt the long-term health of the high-strung turbo.
Q4: Is the Kodiaq RS a 4×4 off-roader?
It features a permanent AWD system that is fantastic for rain, gravel, and light slush. However, it is a road-biased performance SUV, not a rock crawler like a Jeep Rubicon.
Q5: What is the maintenance cost like?
Being a CBU Skoda, service costs are higher than local models. Expect an annual service to cost between ₹35,000–₹50,000, excluding wear-and-tear items like those performance-grade brake pads.