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It’s been practically eight months for the reason that second-generation Skoda Kodiaq landed in Australia, and solely now have we had the possibility to get acquainted with the perfect it has to supply.
That’s a very long time to attend if you happen to’re a fan of Euro efficiency vehicles, and your endurance is rewarded with ‘solely’ a big seven-seat SUV boasting an uprated engine. Thoughts you, the Czech auto model’s RS sub-brand has a strong status for producing nice efficiency vehicles, and it’s not like Kodiaq isn’t bringing something value getting enthusiastic about.
Volkswagen’s seemingly immortal turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder EA888 petrol engine nonetheless graces the brand new 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS, however energy and torque have been bumped to 195kW and 400Nm respectively. That now places it in Golf GTI sizzling hatch territory and marks a wholesome improve over the unique Kodiaq RS, serving to it shave 0.3 seconds off its claimed 0-100km/h acceleration time.
Moreover, the brand new RS options Dynamic Chassis Management Plus (DCC Plus), an adaptive suspension damping system with 15 adjustment levels. This provides the motive force a boatload of efficiency customisability, and permits the automobile to be tuned for something from relative consolation to razor-sharp sportiness.
That’s the promise, anyway. Skoda has additionally carried out the Volkswagen Group’s Progressive Steering system, meant not solely to enhance low-speed drivability but in addition to boost engagement and accuracy because the speeds decide up.
That, together with sporty seats and all-wheel drive, makes the brand new Kodiaq RS appear like a compelling proposition on paper. The earlier RS was well-received, and this new mannequin is claimed to enhance in all key areas.
Extra broadly, the RS is one other piece within the second-generation Kodiaq puzzle. By this time subsequent yr there must also be plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid variants on sale, making Skoda’s largest SUV additionally its most versatile nameplate by a substantial margin.
However for now, we have now solely combustion-powered variants to savour, and CarExpert was invited to the Blue Mountains west of Sydney to pattern the brand new Kodiaq RS at its media launch on a few of NSW’s nicer driving roads – albeit in some correctly torrential rain.
Do the spectacular specs translate to real-world enjoyable on this seven-seat driver’s SUV?
How a lot does the Skoda Kodiaq price?
At $76,990 drive-away, the brand new flagship Kodiaq RS is $15,000 dearer than the Sportline variant positioned under it.
| Mannequin | Worth earlier than on-road prices | Drive-away value |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Skoda Kodiaq Choose 4×4 | $54,990 | $56,990 |
| 2026 Skoda Kodiaq Sportline 4×4 | $58,990 | $61,990 |
| 2026 Skoda Kodiaq RS 4×4 | $69,990 | $76,990 |
Remarkably, nevertheless, regardless of the brand new gear and elevated energy, the brand new RS is virtually the identical value because the mannequin it replaces, at simply $100 dearer drive-away, and Skoda says the brand new automobile packs greater than $8000 value of additional worth over its predecessor.
As for rivals, essentially the most direct one is the associated Volkswagen Tayron 195TSI R-Line, which prices $73,490 earlier than on-roads.
Most different seven-seat opponents provide related energy however aren’t positioned as sporty autos. These embrace the petrol Mazda CX-80 G40e Azami ($74,400 earlier than on-roads), the petrol Kia Sorento GT-Line ($66,290 earlier than on-roads), and the petrol Hyundai Santa Fe 2.5T Calligraphy ($72,750 earlier than on-roads).
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What’s the Skoda Kodiaq like on the within?
For higher or worse, the RS affords primarily the identical inside as the remainder of the Kodiaq vary.
To us, the second-generation Kodiaq already affords a really well-sorted and upmarket inside, which implies Skoda had a robust basis wherein to inject a extra sporting flavour when it got here time to constructing the RS. The tweaks are primarily tied to the way you work together with the automobile, with the primary attraction being the sports activities seats up entrance.
The bucket-style seats actually look the half with their built-in head restraints, whereas the ‘RS’ embroidery underlines their sporty intent. Curiously, the Kodiaq Sportline additionally will get sports activities seats with built-in head restraints, which might make the RS really feel rather less particular at first look.
However they’re nonetheless comparatively snug and completed in RS-specific perforated black leather-based. Bolstering isn’t too aggressive regardless of their sportiness, they usually retain a robust vary of adjustment, together with heating and air flow as customary.
The steering wheel, in the meantime, can be carried over from the Sportline. It’s completed in perforated leather-based and feels appropriately sporty, which inserts properly within the Kodiaq however nonetheless doesn’t make the RS distinctive – other than the ‘RS’ brand on the backside.
Actually, the one different RS-specific inside tweak is crimson stitching, which you’ll discover on the seats and dashboard. The sporty touches are delicate and, understandably, including extra spice to the already well-equipped Sportline could be troublesome.
And the excellent news is the mainstream Kodiaq’s robust tech suite additionally carries over. Headlining the cabin is a 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system loaded with the most recent Skoda software program.
Sharp graphics and ease of use are highlights, the latter because of a number of helpful shortcuts to shortly allow or disable all method of auto features. Wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are customary, and this unit is finest discovered by spending a while taking part in round.
Beneath you’ll discover Skoda’s Good Dials, which cowl local weather management, seat heating/air flow, drive modes, quantity, and a bunch of different customisable features. Frankly, these are a superb answer to minimalist controls, and my constructive sentiment hasn’t modified since attempting them within the new Excellent earlier this yr.
In entrance of the steering wheel is a 10-inch digital instrument show. This can be a handsome display screen that may be customised with all kinds of knowledge, although it nonetheless appears to be like too small for its housing – the wheel due to this fact doesn’t obscure it, nevertheless it appears to be like just a little clumsy from different angles.
It’s value noting that this display screen and the essential infotainment controls will be operated by way of bodily buttons and scroll wheels on the steering wheel. These are a staple in trendy Skoda vehicles, they usually really feel sturdy and satisfying to make use of.
As for storage, there’s greater than sufficient to maintain you content. Two sliding covers on the centre console reveal cupholders and two ventilated wi-fi cellphone chargers, the latter a practical various to the 2 USB-C ports close by.
There’s additionally a two-tier passenger-side glovebox and a number of other ‘Merely Intelligent’ options elsewhere – together with (however not restricted to) a small door-mounted bin and Skoda’s attribute umbrella within the driver’s door.
The second row affords loads of area for folks of all sizes and styles, but when legroom remains to be a difficulty, the rear bench can slide to open issues up a bit extra.
The seat itself isn’t that soft, nevertheless it’s nonetheless very serviceable. Any consolation considerations are offset by the quantity of facilities available, which embrace rear-facing air vents, USB-C ports, heating for the outboard seats, and loads of storage – factory-fitted cellphone holders and multi-tier map pockets are highlights.
There’s an extra storage tray on the ground, which will be eliminated if the center seat is in use. All of those make for a extremely practical rear cabin area, however in addition they make the third row appear a bit barren by comparability.
Legroom is borderline laughable when the second row is in use. Adults can squeeze again right here in an emergency, and you may slide the second row ahead for just a little extra room, however performance doesn’t fairly stack as much as the bigger Isuzu MU-X or Hyundai Santa Fe – however after all these are nowhere close to as sporty.
In distinction, boot area is phenomenal. The third row doesn’t eat into flooring area when folded down, leaving loads of room for groceries, suitcases, and no matter else you must lug round.
The Kodiaq’s 794 litres of cargo capability in five-seat mode is marginally bigger than the CX-80, Santa Fe, and even the Toyota Kluger, as is its most capability with each rear rows out of the best way. This makes for a practical area, improved by the Velcro organisers connected to the ground to maintain cargo from sliding round.
A powered tailgate makes entry that little bit simpler, and stowing cargo is easy given the shortage of a pesky loading lip.
Sadly, we have now considerations about construct high quality resulting from a small rattle within the driver’s door. We’ve had related points crop up in varied Skoda fashions in latest months, so whereas it isn’t essentially stunning, it’s nonetheless disappointing.
| Dimensions | Skoda Kodiaq RS |
|---|---|
| Size | 4761mm |
| Width | 1864mm |
| Top | 1663mm |
| Wheelbase | 2791mm |
| Cargo capability | 289L (all seats up, to headrest) 794L (third row folded, to rear shelf) 2035L (third and second rows folded, to roof) |
What’s below the bonnet?
The brand new Kodiaq RS is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 195kW of energy and 400Nm of torque. As soon as once more it’s a model of Volkswagen’s longstanding EA888 engine, however revised tuning has given it 15kW and 30Nm greater than its predecessor.
| Specs | Skoda Kodiaq RS |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L 4cyl turbo-petrol |
| Energy | 195kW |
| Torque | 400Nm |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch auto |
| Drive kind | All-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1900kg |
| 0-100km/h (claimed) | 6.3 seconds |
| Gas economic system (claimed) | 8.1L/100km |
| Gas tank capability | 58L |
| Gas requirement | 95-octane premium unleaded |
| CO2 emissions | 185g/km |
| Emissions customary | Euro 6 |
| Braked tow capability | 2500kg |
We didn’t have sufficient time in anyone Kodiaq to report a consultant real-world fuel-economy determine at Skoda’s press launch. That stated, a few vehicles had been displaying figures round 8.3L/100km after a couple of hundred kilometres of driving.
How does the Skoda Kodiaq drive?
The concept behind any RS automobile is to carry out the perfect in its donor mannequin. The sharp Octavia RS does this very effectively, so the query is whether or not the MkII Kodiaq has the chops to fulfill the calls for of Skoda’s efficiency sub-brand – and its prospects.
Briefly, we’re assured in saying it does. However earlier than we get to its trip and dealing with traits, it’s vital to put the groundwork by discussing the upgraded powerplant on the coronary heart of the brand new Kodiaq RS.
Its bump in energy and torque is a welcome improve, because it feels greater than able to getting the large SUV hustling in a rush. The earlier era nonetheless wasn’t sluggish, however the elevated efficiency right here strikes a near-perfect stability between uncooked grunt and usefulness.
Energy supply is easy and linear, with no main turbo lag to catch you off guard below acceleration. It’s due to this fact very straightforward to foretell what the automobile will do if you plant your proper foot – which makes the Kodiaq RS extremely straightforward to drive. And to drive shortly.
Plus, it’s inconceivable to fault an engine that pulls with such composed confidence below acceleration, and Skoda has even unlocked some character with a surprisingly audible exhaust notice, even when a few of it could be synthetic inside.
The faster 0-100km/h time is a wholesome bonus, making the Kodiaq RS really feel a contact extra spritely than its predecessor, whereas nonetheless avoiding being overly aggressive.
Serving to this can be a well-sorted dual-clutch computerized. Gear shifts are logical and easy, and in on a regular basis driving (outdoors of any of the sportier drive modes) you’d be hard-pressed to really feel most gear shifts in any respect.
Naturally, there’s the occasional stumble at low pace because the transmission works to both crawl alongside or discover the best gear, nevertheless it’s nowhere close to as unhealthy as dual-clutch autos have been up to now. Immediate kick-downs when laying into the throttle solidify the transmission’s competence.
It’s also possible to take management utilizing the paddles on the steering wheel, and even then the shifts are easy and responsive.
In relation to the trip and dealing with bundle, the Kodiaq already has robust bones beneath – the modular MQB Evo platform it’s constructed on has facilitated numerous sporty fashions just like the Audi RS3, Volkswagen Golf R, Cupra Leon VZx and Skoda Octavia RS, to call a couple of – and it appears the large SUV physique hasn’t undermined any of that.
It has a really well-balanced chassis that obediently follows the steering wheel via even the tightest, lumpiest turns. It was additionally impeccably secure on the drenched roads we had been graced with, making it straightforward for us to construct belief within the automobile.
The all-wheel drive system hooks up properly below arduous acceleration, although you may really feel the traction management working arduous to maintain the drivetrain in examine via the seat of your pants. When you crack into that Dynamic Chassis Management (DCC Plus) expertise, it will get even higher.
In my latest evaluation of the up to date Skoda Enyaq, I discovered that DCC transforms the behaviour of any VW Group product for the higher. That’s no much less true right here, as there isn’t a lot else on the market that may provide each every day consolation and well-tuned sportiness to equal levels in the identical bundle, a lot much less at this value and with seven seats.
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The 15-stage system offers you a broad vary of damping stiffness. Sure settengs are tied to drive modes: Consolation is sweet and compliant, whereas Sport is harsh and aggressive – the latter additionally makes the steering heavier and the exhaust louder.
The result’s a flexible trip that impresses, primarily for its competence in higher-intensity driving. Skoda’s greatest RS mannequin should really feel giant and on the heavier aspect, however its pointy dealing with and properly weighted steering make for a enjoyable drive.
There’s simply a few issues that detract from the polish, although. One is that the low-profile tyres on giant alloys exacerbate street noise, as famous with different MQB Evo-based fashions. It isn’t a dealbreaker, however one thing value contemplating.
One other is that the brakes appear considerably underdone for a big performance-oriented household SUV. We’ve seen a lot smaller vehicles that includes mounted entrance calipers with 4 or extra pistons clamping huge ol’ discs, however the Kodiaq RS makes do with extra mainstream floating calipers, albeit with twin pistons.
That is an extremely enthusiast-minded nitpick, nevertheless it’s one thing I and some others mentioned at Skoda’s launch. Thoughts you, the brakes had been persistently sharp throughout our drive and there’s no trigger for concern, however we’re curious to see how they maintain up below extended aggressive driving.
We additionally seen a knocking sound over harsh bumps, which was troublesome to pinpoint however might be associated to the sounds we famous within the inside part above. It doesn’t break the automobile, nevertheless it was audible in a number of Kodiaqs on the day.
In any other case, the automobile feels very strong, once more making it straightforward to really feel assured behind the wheel. Outward visibility can be good and, though it’s giant, the Kodiaq doesn’t really feel ungainly except you’re on a slim nation street.
It’s all supported by a complete suite of security gear, with particular person options simply toggled on or off – the automobile will keep in mind your settings too, making for handy personalisation.
What do you get?
Three trims are actually out there for the Skoda Kodiaq.
2026 Skoda Kodiaq Choose tools highlights:
- 19-inch ‘Lefka’ alloy wheels
- Automated LED headlights
- LED tail-lights
- Energy-folding exterior mirrors
- Energy tailgate
- Rear privateness glass
- Proximity entry with push-button begin
- 10-inch Digital Cockpit digital instrument cluster
- 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wired and wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- DAB+ digital radio
- Satellite tv for pc navigation
- 9-speaker sound system
- Tri-zone local weather management
- Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
- Black leather-based upholstery with gray stitching
- Heated entrance seats
- Energy driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment, reminiscence
- 2 x wi-fi cellphone chargers with cooling system
- 5 x USB-C retailers (two entrance, two rear, one for rear-view mirror)
- Leather-based-wrapped steering wheel
- Paddle shifters
- Color-adjustable ambient lighting
Kodiaq Sportline provides:
- 20-inch ‘Rila’ alloy wheels with aero covers
- Matrix LED headlights
- LED tail lights with dynamic indicators
- Black exterior trim
- Heated steering wheel
- Aluminium pedals
- Suedia/leatherette upholstery
- Heated entrance seats
- Entrance sports activities seats
- Black headliner
- ‘Premium’ sound system
- Drive mode choice
Kodiaq RS provides:
- 20-inch ‘Alias’ black alloy wheels
- Dynamic Chassis Management Plus adaptive suspension
- Progressive steering
- Crimson brake calipers
- Twin polished chrome steel exhaust ideas
- Distinctive entrance and rear bumpers
- ‘RS Sport’ black perforated leather-based upholstery
- Crimson inside stitching
- Ventilated entrance seats
- Heated rear seats
- Head-up show
- 13-speaker Canton sound system
Is the Skoda Kodiaq secure?
The Skoda Kodiaq wears a five-star ANCAP security ranking, based mostly on testing performed by Euro NCAP in 2024.
| Class | Skoda Kodiaq |
|---|---|
| Grownup occupant safety | 89 per cent |
| Little one occupant safety | 87 per cent |
| Susceptible street person safety | 82 per cent |
| Security help | 81 per cent |
Commonplace security tools highlights:
- 9 airbags, incl:
- Entrance
- Entrance-centre
- Entrance-side
- Driver’s knee
- Curtain
- Adaptive cruise management with cease/go
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Pedestrian detection
- Bike owner detection
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Emergency help
- Entrance and rear parking sensors
- Clever park help
- Lane-keep help with Adaptive Lane Steerage
- Entrance and rear cross-traffic alert
- Reversing digicam
- Protected exit warning
- Site visitors Jam Help
- Site visitors signal recognition
- Journey Help (lane centring, adaptive cruise)
- Tyre stress monitoring
The Kodiaq RS will get a surround-view digicam as customary.
How a lot does the Skoda Kodiaq price to run?
Skoda backs all its fashions with a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre guarantee. Service intervals are 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first.
| Servicing and Guarantee | Skoda Kodiaq |
|---|---|
| Guarantee | 7 years, limitless kilometres |
| Roadside help | As much as 7 years |
| Service intervals | 12 months or 15,000km |
| Capped-price servicing | 5-year service pack (+2 years elective) |
| Complete capped-price service price | $3000 (5 years) $700 (2-year top-up) |
The model affords pay as you go service packs that may be purchased upfront or at any level earlier than the car’s first service. The Kodiaq’s five-year, 75,000km service pack will price you $3000 and, if the car is eligible, it may be prolonged by an extra two years for $700.
CarExpert’s Tackle the Skoda Kodiaq RS
Given Skoda’s monitor report with ripper efficiency fashions, we’re not essentially shocked that the brand new Kodiaq RS is sort of good. As a substitute, we’re merely impressed.
The wonder is that it seems like an outsized Golf GTI with all-wheel drive, whereas being rather more sensible.
Combining that practicality with respectable efficiency and much better dealing with traits than ought to be moderately anticipated from a big SUV makes the Kodiaq RS one of the vital versatile VW Group fashions – by an extended shot, a minimum of inside the German big’s ‘mainstream’ portfolio.
The extent of mechanical customisation can be distinctive, and we reiterate that DCC Plus is a really well-engineered system that has persistently improved each automobile I’ve pushed with it. It’s notably noticeable within the Kodiaq, nevertheless, given the trouble required to regulate its greater and heavier physique.
And when you think about that you simply get that further energy, higher dealing with, up to date tech, and improved security gear for no further value premium, the brand new Kodiaq RS makes lots of sense and is a really welcome addition to the lineup.
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