Second-generation Skoda Kodiaq RS arrives soon
Words NZ Autocar | Images Skoda
The second generation of the Kodiaq is already here, and now the RS jets in, packing a more potent 2.0 TSI turbopetrol. With its glossy black exterior details, sports bumpers and the front grille’s horizontal light strip, the sportiest Kodiaq version is instantly recognisable as such.
The equipment list includes LED Matrix headlights, progressive steering, Dynamic Chassis Control Plus and a Canton sound system.
More go power
The most dynamic model of Skoda’s big SUVs is available as a five- or seven-seater. The 2.0 engine now outputs 195kW/400Nm and combines with a seven-speed DSG and all-wheel drive. There’s also Dynamic Sound Boost, ensuring an emotive engine sound. With a turbocharged AWD powertrain, Skoda says the new Kodiaq RS hits the speed limit in 6.4sec.
Advanced 4×4 drive
All-wheel drive involves an electro-hydraulically controlled multi-plate clutch. A control unit calculates and applies the optimal power distribution, allowing up to 100 per cent of torque to be directed to the rear axle, and up to 85 per cent to a single wheel (in conjunction with Electronic Differential Lock). The all-wheel drive set-up also ensures good towing capacity, the RS able to haul a braked trailer weighing up to 2500kg.
Dynamic and relaxed
The Kodiaq RS has a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension set up. Along with DCC there’s a mix of both sound handling and civilised ride comfort.
The Kodiaq RS also features progressive steering. This contributes to improved steering dynamics and low-speed manoeuvrability by reducing the number of lock-to-lock steering wheel revolutions.
Powerful brakes
The front and rear brake discs with red-painted calipers are ventilated and sized to match the performance of the car. The five-seater comes with disc brakes measuring 340×34 millimetres up front. The seven-seater’s front axle has disc brakes measuring 335×30 millimetres with double-piston calipers.
The rear brakes are the same on each (310x22mm with single-piston calipers).
Black exterior accents
Black highlights are a hallmark of Škoda RS models. So this second-generation Kodiaq RS comes with a glossy black finish for its grille frame, exterior mirror covers, the upper parts of the window frames, the roof rails and the D-pillar. The Kodiaq RS also has a distinct front bumper with various parts finished in black.
Another exterior highlight is the front grille that has a horizontal light strip. The rear features a reflector spanning the width of the vehicle. Skoda lettering and model designation on the tailgate also come in black. Polished stainless steel exhaust tips emerge from the rear bumper. The standard 20-inch Elias alloy wheels have a polished black finish and are exclusive to the RS.
Eight exterior colours are on offer for the Kodiaq RS.
LED Matrix headlights and DCC Plus
The comprehensive standard equipment includes LED Matrix beam headlights, a self locking and unlocking key system, and the latest-generation of adaptive damping (DCC Plus).
The latter comprises 15 settings ranging from comfortable to sporty.
This new solution provides a faster shock absorber response and further improves driving performance and ride comfort. Driving Mode Select features six settings, along with an Off-Road mode.
Sporty interior
The RS Suite Design features sports seats with integrated headrests and black perforated leather/artificial leather with red contrast stitching. Kodiaq RS comes with a three-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel finished in red stitching and an RS badge. Laminated glass offers better sound insulation.
The driver faces a 10-inch Virtual Cockpit and a 13-inch infotainment screen. A premium Canton sound system is standard in the RS.
Seats are powered up front, and heated and ventilated. In the rear they’re heated. Ambient lighting and decorative trim rounds out the spec of this $95,000 Kodiaq RS TSI 2.0 4×4 offering.
Luggage capacity ranges from 340L to 2035L with seven or two seats in use, and 845L with five seats occupied. Braked tow capacity is a stated 2500kg.
First examples arrive towards the end of the year.
To find out more go here.
