Skoda Kodiaq RS review: The ‘Octavia RS’ for family Men? This 7-Seater might surprise you

New Delhi: Performance SUVs are no longer a niche segment. Buyers today want a vehicle that can comfortably handle school runs during the week and deliver an exciting driving experience on the weekend. With the Kodiaq RS, Skoda aims to strike exactly that balance.

Rather than chasing outright supercar performance, the Kodiaq RS combines a powerful turbo-petrol engine, all-wheel drive, premium comfort and seven-seat practicality into one well-rounded package. For enthusiasts who have admired the legendary Octavia RS but now need a family-friendly SUV, this could be the closest alternative yet.

Subtle Looks, Strong Road Presence

Unlike many performance SUVs that rely on aggressive styling, the Kodiaq RS keeps things understated.

The SUV features exclusive RS bumpers, gloss black exterior accents, black roof rails, a distinctive illuminated front grille, sporty rear spoiler, red brake calipers and eye-catching 20-inch alloy wheels. The design is sporty without being over the top, maintaining the clean European styling Skoda is known for.

It may not scream for attention, but enthusiasts will instantly recognise the RS identity.

Premium Cabin Built for Long Journeys

Step inside, and the Kodiaq RS offers a cabin that feels both luxurious and practical.

The interior gets sports seats finished in black leather with red stitching, aluminium pedals, a flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters, a fully digital instrument cluster and a large touchscreen infotainment system.

Comfort is equally impressive. The front seats are heated, ventilated, electrically adjustable and feature memory functions, while the second row offers sliding and reclining seats along with three-zone climate control, USB-C charging ports and rear sunblinds.

Skoda’s signature Simply Clever touches—including an umbrella in the door, tablet holders, bag hooks, waste bins and a reversible boot mat—continue to make everyday ownership more convenient.

The third-row seats are best suited for children or shorter journeys, but folding them opens up a generous 786 litres of luggage space. Fold both rear rows, and cargo capacity expands to an impressive 1,976 litres.

Powerful Yet Civilised Performance

At the heart of the Kodiaq RS is Volkswagen Group’s proven 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine.

The four-cylinder motor produces 265 PS and 400 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive.

Acceleration is brisk, with the SUV feeling surprisingly quick despite weighing nearly 1.9 tonnes.

Rather than delivering dramatic bursts of power, the engine provides smooth and effortless acceleration. Once the turbocharger comes alive, the Kodiaq RS builds speed confidently, making highway overtakes and long-distance touring feel effortless.

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The DSG transmission performs best in Sport Mode, where gear changes become sharper and more responsive.

Confident Handling Without Sacrificing Comfort

One of the biggest strengths of the Kodiaq RS is its ability to balance comfort with performance.

The SUV features Dynamic Chassis Control Plus, allowing drivers to choose between softer comfort settings and firmer, sportier suspension.

Even on its large 20-inch wheels, ride quality remains composed over most Indian roads. In the sportier settings, body roll is well controlled, while the all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip through corners.

The steering is precise without becoming overly aggressive, making the SUV easy to drive in both city traffic and on winding highways.

Loaded with Technology and Safety

Skoda has equipped the Kodiaq RS with an extensive list of premium features and advanced driver assistance systems.

Highlights include:

• Nine airbags
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Assist
• Front Assist
• Rear Traffic Alert
• Side Assist
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• Electronic Stability Control
• Hill Descent Control
• Multi-Collision Brake
• Electronic Differential Lock

The SUV also offers 194 mm of ground clearance, giving it the confidence to tackle rough roads and weekend getaways with ease.

Verdict: Practical Performance Done Right

The Skoda Kodiaq RS isn’t trying to compete with ultra-expensive performance SUVs like the Audi RS Q8, Porsche Cayenne, or Lamborghini Urus.

Instead, it delivers something far more practical for Indian buyers—a fast, premium seven-seater that remains comfortable, spacious and usable every single day.

It may not replace the Octavia RS in the hearts of driving purists, but it successfully captures the same spirit in a more mature package.

For buyers who need one SUV that can handle family duties during the week and spirited drives on the weekend, the Kodiaq RS makes an incredibly compelling case.