Skoda Kodiaq RS 2026 performance flagship SUV 7-seater

Skoda Kodiaq RS 2026 A Powerful Performance SUV Set to Raise the Flag for Sporty 7-Seat Luxury

Skoda has long been recognized for blending practicality with driving enjoyment, but the upcoming Skoda Kodiaq RS 2026 is ready to push that balance even further. With global attention and a confirmed India launch slated for around June 2026, the Kodiaq RS is shaping up to be one of the most exciting entries in the premium SUV segment especially for buyers who want seven-seat practicality without compromising on performance and style.

A Rare Performance SUV With 7 Seats

What sets the Skoda Kodiaq RS 2026 apart is its combination of size, space and power. While many performance SUVs focus exclusively on sporty two-row models, the Kodiaq RS manages to offer dynamic performance alongside true family usability. With three rows of seating and SUV practicality, it appeals to buyers who need room but still crave engaging driving dynamics a rare proposition in this segment.

Skoda has revealed that the RS version represents the sportiest variant in the Kodiaq lineup and is expected to become the brand’s flagship SUV in India when it arrives next year.

What Lies Under the Hood: Performance You Can Feel

The heart of the Skoda Kodiaq RS 2026 is its turbocharged 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine — the same unit that powers Skoda’s high-performance Octavia RS. This engine produces approximately 261 bhp and 400 Nm of torque, delivering a significant performance boost over the regular Kodiaq.

Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and a full-time all-wheel drive system, the Kodiaq RS reportedly sprints from 0-100 km/h in around 6.3 seconds and has a top speed well in excess of 230 km/h — remarkable figures for a seven-seat SUV of this size.

This powerful drivetrain promises both strong everyday drivability and the kind of excitement performance enthusiasts crave. The AWD system and adaptive dampers (expected on higher trims) help provide confidence at high speeds and stability over challenging roads.

Distinctive Looks and Sporty Identity Skoda Kodiaq RS 2026

The Skoda Kodiaq RS 2026 differentiates itself visually from its more family-focused siblings with a bold and athletic styling package. Highlights for the RS version include:

Gloss-black grille and trim elements
Sporty front and rear bumpers
Black roof rails and mirror caps
Large 20-inch alloy wheels with a performance-oriented design
Red brake calipers and RS badging throughout

The aggressive exterior language gives it a presence that matches its performance credentials, while subtle aerodynamic touches improve both efficiency and high-speed stability.

Interior: Sport Meets Comfort Skoda Kodiaq RS 2026

Inside, the Skoda Kodiaq RS 2026 is expected to blend Škoda’s practical luxury with sport-focused details. The RS cabin will likely include:

All-black upholstery with red contrast stitching
Sports seats with enhanced support
A flat-bottom steering wheel and RS-specific graphics
A large digital instrument cluster and modern infotainment system
Premium safety and connectivity tech

This combination means drivers won’t have to choose between comfort and performance the RS delivers both.

Strong Tech and Safety Credentials

Skoda continues to equip the Kodiaq lineup with a comprehensive suite of modern tech and safety features.

While exact details for the RS variant in India are yet to be fully released, expectations include:

Large central touchscreen infotainment
Connected car features
Adaptive cruise control and lane assist systems
Multiple airbags and advanced braking systems
Parking assist with 360-degree cameras

These additions make the Skoda Kodiaq RS 2026 not just powerful but also capable and secure for family travel.

India Launch: What Buyers Can Expect Skoda Kodiaq RS 2026

Skoda Auto India has confirmed that the Skoda Kodiaq RS 2026 will be introduced in the Indian market by the second quarter of 2026, likely around June. This will mark Skoda’s first true performance-oriented SUV offering locally, bringing something unique to the premium SUV market.

While exact pricing is yet to be announced, global pricing for similar markets starts from around $69,990+ (approx Rs 55 Lakh To 60 Lakh ex-showroom in India when adjusted for duties), suggesting a premium positioning above the regular Kodiaq lineup.

Why the Kodiaq RS Matters

The 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS represents a fascinating evolution for Škoda’s SUV strategy one that doesn’t just offer seven-seat practicality but delivers it with a sporting edge. At a time when SUV buyers increasingly want both performance and utility, the RS is positioned to offer the best of both worlds.

It also signals Skoda’s confidence in bringing enthusiast-focused models to India, a market traditionally dominated by comfort-oriented SUVs. For buyers who want a performance-tuned SUV that still accommodates family needs, the Kodiaq RS could be one of the most compelling choices on Indian roads in 2026.