Paris Motor Show 2018: Skoda Kodiaq RS is a ‘Ring record holder

-    The seven-seater SUV clocked the Nordschleife in 9:29.84 minutes.

-    Powered by a diesel motor from Passat producing 237bhp and 500Nm.

-   Will come to India as well.

After a myriad of teasers, Skoda officially took the covers off the Kodiaq RS at the Paris stage. The Kodiaq RS has a lap record under its belt for a seven seater after it went  around the 21 kilometre long Nordschleife in just 9:29.84 minutes.

Powering the Kodiaq RS is the same BiTDI engine turbodiesel motor that sits under the hood of the humble Volkswagen Passat and the Tiguan. It puts out 237bhp of power at 4,000 rpm and 500Nm of torque from as low as 1,750 rpm. The power is sent to the four-wheel-drive system via an automatic DCT. The SUV is capable of revving to a 100kmph from standstill in just 6.1 seconds before hitting a top speed of 220kmph.

Helping the Kodiaq’s go-fast nature is additional equipment like adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) which alters the springs and shock absorbers based on the six selectable modes. There are six drive modes – Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport, Individual, and Snow – to choose from. Even the steering gets progressive control which electronically changes the ratio depending on variable conditions.

Also part of the package is the Dynamic Sound Boost which comes as standard. This feature uses the data gathered from the Kodiaq RS’ electronics and provides a more appealing acoustic sound to complement the TDI’s actual sound. This artificial acoustic can automatically change its settings based on the driving mode.

Appearance wise, it has all the RS elements including chunkier 20-inch wheels, new blue hue body colour, extended body kit and full-LED headlights. The cabin comes with Alcantara treatment on the seats and dashboard while the Virtual Cockpit is a standard offering. 

Skoda India will surely bring the Kodiaq RS to India given the popularity that the Octavia RS garnered in the country. It would also add another feather in the hat of the Kodiaq which is gaining enough demand in India as well as in international markets.