For Indian car enthusiasts, the RS badge has always carried a special reputation. It represents Skoda’s motorsport heritage, combining everyday practicality with exhilarating performance. Now, that iconic badge has arrived on the brand’s flagship SUV. The 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS has officially been launched in India at an ex-showroom price of ₹66.99 lakh, making it the most powerful Kodiaq ever sold in the country.
Imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), the 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS will be available in just one fully loaded variant. The biggest surprise, however, came even before the official launch. Skoda allocated only 50 units for India, and every single one was booked within six minutes of reservations opening. That remarkable response shows there is a growing audience for premium performance SUVs that deliver excitement without sacrificing family practicality.
So, what makes this SUV so desirable? Let’s take a closer look.
2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS Engine and Performance
The biggest upgrade in the 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS lies under the bonnet. It is powered by Volkswagen Group’s renowned 2.0-litre EA888 four-cylinder turbocharged TSI petrol engine, producing 265bhp and 400Nm of peak torque.
Compared to the standard Kodiaq, this is an increase of 64bhp and 80Nm, transforming the SUV into a genuinely quick machine.
Power is delivered through a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic gearbox, while Skoda’s intelligent 4×4 all-wheel-drive system comes as standard. According to the company, the SUV can accelerate from 0-100kmph in just 6.3 seconds, making it one of the quickest seven-seat SUVs currently on sale in India.
Unlike many performance SUVs that only shine in straight-line acceleration, the power delivery here is smooth, refined, and incredibly responsive. Whether overtaking on highways or climbing mountain roads, the engine always feels eager and confident.
Dynamic Chassis Control Makes the Difference
Raw power is only part of the story. What truly separates the 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS from conventional premium SUVs is its advanced chassis technology.
Built on Volkswagen Group’s MQB Evo platform, the SUV comes equipped with Dynamic Chassis Control Plus (DCC+), allowing the suspension to continuously adapt to changing road conditions.
In Comfort mode, the ride remains composed and luxurious, making long-distance journeys relaxing for the entire family. Switch to Sport mode, and the suspension stiffens noticeably, reducing body roll while improving steering response. The result is a seven-seat SUV that feels surprisingly agile around corners without compromising everyday comfort.
For buyers who enjoy driving, this technology makes a genuine difference rather than being just another feature on the specification sheet.
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2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS Exterior Design
One glance is enough to distinguish the RS from the regular Kodiaq.
Instead of chrome accents, Skoda has adopted a more aggressive appearance with a gloss black exterior package. The signature butterfly grille, ORVMs, window surrounds, and exterior trim all receive black treatment, giving the SUV a sportier personality.
Other exterior highlights include:
- 20-inch dual-tone alloy wheels
- Red brake calipers
- LED Matrix headlamps
- LED taillamps
- RS-specific front and rear bumpers
- Sporty rear diffuser and dual exhaust finishers
The SUV is available in four premium colours:
- Steel Grey
- Velvet Red
- Magic Black
- Moon White
The design remains elegant rather than flashy, appealing to buyers who prefer understated performance.
Premium Cabin Loaded With Features
Inside, the cabin follows the same performance-inspired philosophy.
The all-black interior is complemented by contrasting red stitching, aluminium-finish accents, and exclusive RS detailing. The sporty atmosphere is enhanced by front sports seats that provide excellent support without compromising comfort during long journeys.
Feature highlights include:
- 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- 10.25-inch fully digital driver’s display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- 360-degree camera
- Electric tailgate
- Sliding and reclining second-row seats
- Rear sunshades
- Drive Mode Selection
- Premium Canton sound system
- Panoramic sunroof
Practicality remains one of the Kodiaq’s biggest strengths, with generous passenger space across all three rows and a flexible luggage area.
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Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS doesn’t focus solely on performance. It also offers an impressive list of safety technologies.
Some of the key features include:
- Nine airbags
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Keep Assist
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Electronic Stability Control
- 360-degree surround-view camera
- Front and rear parking sensors
These systems help make everyday driving safer while adding confidence during long highway trips.
Price and Rivals
The 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS has been launched at ₹66.99 lakh (ex-showroom) and is imported via the CBU route.
Although it carries a premium price tag, buyers are paying for exclusivity, higher performance, advanced chassis technology, and a fully loaded equipment list.
Its closest rivals include:
- Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line
- Toyota Fortuner Legender
- Jeep Meridian
- MG Gloster
Among these, the Kodiaq RS stands out by combining genuine sports-car performance with the practicality of a seven-seat luxury SUV.
Who Should Buy the 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS?
The 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS is ideal for buyers who want more than just another premium SUV.
Buy it if:
- You want one of the fastest seven-seat SUVs available in India.
- You appreciate European driving dynamics.
- You need a luxurious family SUV without compromising performance.
- You value exclusivity and premium engineering.
Skip it if:
- Your budget is below ₹60 lakh.
- You specifically want a diesel-powered SUV.
- Hardcore off-roading is your top priority.
Final Verdict
The 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS is much more than a cosmetic upgrade. It successfully combines everyday usability with genuine performance, something very few seven-seat SUVs currently achieve. From its 265bhp turbo-petrol engine and adaptive suspension to its luxurious cabin and advanced safety technologies, every aspect feels engineered for enthusiasts who also need practicality.
The fact that all 50 imported units were snapped up within six minutes speaks volumes about the demand for niche performance SUVs in India. While its ₹66.99 lakh price tag places it firmly in the premium segment, the 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS delivers an ownership experience that few rivals can match. For buyers who want a premium SUV that blends everyday family comfort with genuine driving excitement, the Kodiaq RS stands out as one of the most compelling launches of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the price of the 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS in India?
A: The SUV has been launched at ₹66.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
Q2. How much power does the 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS produce?
A: It produces 265bhp and 400Nm from a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol TSI engine.
Q3. Does the Kodiaq RS come with AWD?
A: Yes. It comes with Skoda’s intelligent 4×4 all-wheel-drive system as standard.
Q4. How fast is the Kodiaq RS?
A: According to Skoda, the Kodiaq RS can sprint from 0 to 100kmph in a brisk 6.3 seconds, making it one of the quickest seven-seat SUVs in its class.
Q5. Why is the Kodiaq RS so exclusive?
A: It is imported as a CBU model, and the first allocation of 50 units sold out within six minutes of bookings opening.