In the world of SUVs, where powerful versions are mostly the domain of prestigious brands, Škoda is firmly among the exceptions with its redesigned Kodiaq RS. In the second generation, this "family tank" took over the heart of the legendary Golf GTI and, like a true all-round sportsman, set out on a journey between vehicles that are not purely utilitarian. With 261 horsepower and enviable performance, the new Škoda Kodiaq RS is Škoda's most powerful petrol SUV to date. But is all this enough to win the hearts of enthusiasts?
Skoda Kodiaq RS first arrived in 2018 with a 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel engine that offered solid acceleration and excellent economy. In 2021, Škoda replaced this diesel engine with a petrol one, and now in the second generation of the SUV, the heart of the 2.0-liter TSI engine beats under the hood - the same one found in the iconic VW Golf GTI. This engine develops 195 kW (261 hp) and 400 Nm of torque, which is 22 Nm more than the previous version. This gives the Kodiaq RS extra energy for those looking for more than just everyday family transportation.
Engine designation "EA888” is well known to fans of Volkswagen sports cars. It is a popular 2.0-liter TSI engine, which, in addition to the Golf GTI, is also found in the VW Tiguan R, Audi S3, and even the Porsche Macan (basic version). With the same engine in the Kodiaq RS, Skoda is clearly targeting buyers looking for performance without the astronomical prices of luxury brands.
Technical data and capabilities
- Engine: 2.0-liter TSI, four-cylinder, turbo
- Power: 195 kW (261 hp)
- Torque: 400 Nm
- Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 6.3 seconds (five-seat version), 6.4 seconds (seven-seat version)
- Top speed: 232 km/h (144 mph)
- Gearbox: 7-speed dual-clutch DSG, four-wheel drive
With five or seven seats, the Kodiaq RS can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds, which is just a bit more than you'd expect from a compact sports hatchback. This figure puts the Kodiaq RS among the fastest "non-premium" SUVs, as most mainstream SUVs can only struggle to match its performance.
New features for 2025 – more than just power
At Škoda, they clearly decided that the Kodiaq RS should be more than just another sports SUV. That's why this family SUV has a range of technological goodies that make it special. First of all, there are matrix LED headlights that adjust the lighting according to traffic and driving conditions. Then there are active shock absorbers that adjust according to the selected driving mode – from Sport to Snow and even Off-Road.
The interior is even more impressive. In addition to the 13-inch touchscreen that dominates the center console, the Kodiaq RS also features ventilated seats, a premium Canton sound system, and additional laminated glass to reduce cabin noise. As Škoda would like to say: "You don't need an Audi Q7 to feel like you're in a premium SUV." While some rivals, such as the Ford Edge ST or Toyota RAV4 Prime, are more focused on performance or economy, the Kodiaq RS successfully combines both.
Competitiveness and price
Although prices for the Slovenian market have not yet been officially announced, the Kodiaq RS is expected to cost around €50,000 (approx. USD 53,000) in Europe, which puts it in the middle class among SUVs. In comparison, the Porsche Macan with the base engine costs considerably more, while having considerably less space and practicality. The Kodiaq RS offers better value for money, especially when you consider the many technological features included and Skoda's reputation for durability.
Where does the Kodiaq RS rank among sports SUVs?
In the SUV category, where luxury competitors often overshadow "regular" manufacturers, Škoda sticks to its philosophy of affordability and reliability, while at the same time offering performance that many desire. The Kodiaq RS is a truly versatile SUV: powerful enough for dynamic driving, roomy for family adventures and equipped with a range of technological gadgets.
With 261 horses and 400 Nm of torque, it is a serious competitor in the European market and brings a real sporty character to a class of SUVs that usually value comfort and safety. In fact, you could say that the Kodiaq RS, with its GTI heart and SUV body, strikes the perfect balance between power and practicality.
Conclusion: Can the Kodiaq RS be a serious competitor in its class?
In an era when the SUV market is facing a transition to electrification, the decision to go for a petrol Kodiaq RS seems a bit "retro", but it still appeals to many enthusiasts. While the electric Enyaq RS and Enyaq Coupe RS offer even more power and instant torque, the Kodiaq RS is the perfect example of a vehicle for those who still swear by the sound and feel of a classic turbo petrol engine.
For car enthusiasts looking for power, roominess and affordability, the Kodiaq RS is simply one of the best options. After all, why settle for a sporty hatchback when you can get an SUV with the same power and added practicality? And while the Porsche Macan and Audi SQ5 offer similar specifications, the Kodiaq RS is affordable and tailored for those who want an “all-in-one”.
