Normally, I wouldn’t begin a Skoda Kodiaq review with a 0-100kph run. But this isn’t a regular Kodiaq. It’s got RS in its name, which means performance is every bit as important as practicality. Left foot on the brake, right foot on the accelerator, Launch Control activated, and off we go. The VBOX flashes a 0-100kph time of 6.83 seconds. For a large, seven-seat SUV, that’s impressive.

Kodiaq RS Performance and Refinement – 8/10

To enable this, the changes begin under the bonnet. The familiar EA888 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine remains, but power climbs from 204hp to 265hp, while torque jumps from 320Nm to 400Nm. The numbers translate to acceleration and roll-on times a few tenths quicker than the standard Kodiaq, and the whole sensation is of being in a more urgent vehicle.

There’s a strong pull throughout the rev range, and on stretches long enough, the engine will happily wind to 6,000-6,500rpm. It’s particularly satisfying because the power feels usable and the performance is engaging. A similar-powered EV just won’t give the same thrill. Enhancing the experience is the soundtrack. The dual exhausts won’t let out pops or bangs, but you’ll hear a purposeful snarl from the engine when extended. Some of what you hear is played through the speakers, but it’s tastefully done and never sounds artificial.

The quick-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox is also intrinsic to the drive experience. It’s always in the right gear and is very responsive to your right foot. Of course, on a day of hard driving, you’ll inevitably reach for the paddle shifters. They’re quick to respond but aren’t always willing to grant a high-rpm downshift.

Kodiaq RS Ride Comfort and Handling – 8/10

The RS badge isn’t just about straight-line performance. Skoda has put effort into making the Kodiaq more exciting in corners. Enhancements over the standard Kodiaq include a move to 20-inch rims (up from 18 inches), progressive steering (it alters the ratio depending on lock) and adaptive dampers (Dynamic Chassis Control or DCC), with 15 settings covering the spectrum from soft to firm. It all comes together really well.

No, the tall and heavy SUV doesn’t magically transform into an Octavia RS, but judged as a seven-seat SUV, the Kodiaq RS is surprisingly engaging. In its sportiest setting, the RS changes direction eagerly and body control is tidy – you don’t feel the weight pushing outwards in high-speed corners. The all-wheel-drive system plays its supporting role really well, because there’s an ever-present feeling of grip, and this greatly ups confidence and connect with the RS. Up to 100 percent of torque can go to the rear axle, and this gives the handling a different feel to the front-wheel-drive Octavia RS. Skoda’s XDS+ system that brakes the inner wheel in corners also comes into play, helping the Kodiaq resist understeer. A well-weighted and responsive steering completes the package.

What’s nice is that there’s plenty of ways to set up the Kodiaq RS to your liking. Beyond the usual Comfort, Normal and Sport modes, there’s an Individual setting that allows you to tailor everything from damper stiffness and steering weight to the responses of the engine, gearbox and all-wheel-drive system. DCC, in particular, gives the Kodiaq RS a wider breadth of roles. It feels well tied down in the sportier setting, while the suspension has more give in the softest modes. Ride comfort is pleasant even on the 20-inch rims, and if memory serves, it’s more absorbent than the standard Kodiaq that rides on 18-inch wheels. Of course, no issues of ground clearance here. In fact, the Kodiaq RS will happily play everyday car. The engine is smooth and refined when you need it to be, but is happy to change character the moment you ask more of it.

Kodiaq RS Features and Safety – 9/10

New to the Kodiaq line-up in India is ADAS (rolled out last month), and the suite includes adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, lane-keep assist, a blind-spot warning and more. The functions work well enough and, of course, are an added layer of safety only. Nine airbags, electronic stability control and ISOFIX child-seat mounts are among the features on the long list of safety equipment. Wish the 360-degree camera was crisper, but props to the Matrix LED headlights that offer excellent illumination. The welcome and goodbye signatures on the lights are also a cool touch. 

Kodiaq RS Exterior Design and Engineering – 8/10

Drivers will know they are in a special Kodiaq, but the message is delivered to other road users in a slightly discreet manner. Sure, our test car’s Velvet Red paint shade drew attention, but in the white, black or grey paint shades, your biggest giveaway that this is an RS would be its larger rims. The RS sports a dechromed look in which all shiny bits are finished in black, but a mid-spec Kodiaq Sportline gets the same treatment. Sportier bumpers, dual exhausts and RS badging do give the Kodiaq RS street cred, but only to those in the know. 

Kodiaq RS Interior Space and Comfort – 8/10

The interior remains a highlight. Again, the predominantly black theme and sport front seats are elements you’d find in a Sportline, but that’s more an observation than a negative. Red cross-stitching on the seats, steering and dash, RS embossing on the seats and a textured metal finish for the door and dash inlays do lend this Kodiaq its distinct personality.

As for the individual elements, the front seats don’t just look great but hold you well with excellent back support, and adjustable thigh support included for good measure. Ventilation helps the experience, and you’ll like how instinctive the driver environment is. It’s easy to find a good driving position, visibility is great, and all controls are in clear sight and fall easily to hand.

Ahead of the driver is a crisp 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with multiple display layouts, all of which are neatly executed. The dashboard itself is dominated by a 12.9-inch touchscreen that’s well integrated into the overall design. It’s quick to respond and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Skoda has also done well to provide rotary controllers for the climate control system. While the outer dials handle climate functions, the centre dial is programmable and can be assigned to functions such as blower speed, drive modes or audio volume. 

Rear-seat passengers will like their environment too. Knee room is generous, there’s enough room for three to sit in comfort, and the large windows and panoramic sunroof fill the dark interior with lots of light. The bench itself is comfy and features a reclinable backrest, plus fore/aft movement to balance space for third-row occupants. Rear-window sunshades, a dedicated climate control zone and phone/tablet holders mounted on the front headrests (to form a makeshift rear-seat entertainment system) are other comfort features at the back.

The third row isn’t easy to get to, and space is insufficient for large adults. However, sit height-wise across the Kodiaq’s three rows, and you can reach a reasonable space compromise. 
When the rearmost seats aren’t in use, they are best left folded down, opening up a huge 786 litres of luggage room. In general, the Kodiaq RS’ cabin is very practical with lots of room for small items, generous door bins and well-sized cup holders.

Kodiaq RS Value for Money – 7/10

The Kodiaq RS won’t make you go weak in the knees like an Octavia RS can. What it does successfully is pepper the premium and practical Kodiaq with more performance and driver appeal. It really is a wholesome package that will be an easy sell for the entire family. That’s till you bring pricing into the equation. The fully imported Kodiaq RS is expected to be priced at Rs 60-65 lakh (estimated, ex-showroom, India), which would make it a good 15-20 lakh pricier than the locally assembled Kodiaq L&K. If so, the case for the Kodiaq RS weakens. Yes, it is more enjoyable to drive, but so much better? Hmm.

Skoda says all 50 units of the Kodiaq RS allocated for India are spoken for. For the lot who are happy to pay the premium, they’re buying an all-rounder they won’t get bored of for years to come.