Paris show: Skoda reveals RS-tuned Kodiaq, Vision

SKODA has finally officially ripped the covers off its high-performance Kodiaq RS large SUV at the Paris motor show, along with a plug-in hybrid hatch concept dubbed Vision RS.

 

Long rumoured and teased, the Kodiaq RS is powered by a twin-turbo-diesel 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine outputting 176kW/500Nm, which would make it the highest torque output of any Australian Skoda if it makes it to local showrooms.

 

Skoda Australia is yet to confirm whether the Kodiaq RS will be offered locally, but the brand’s general manager of communication Paul Pottinger said the company is keen to secure the Kodiaq RS, believing it would be a hit with local customers.

 

As previously reported, its Aussie fate remains up in the air due to ongoing climate issues – namely heat and dust – which could prevent the Kodiaq RS from coming, or may require a detuned version to be offered here similar to the situation with the local Golf R.

 

If the Kodiaq RS were to landfall in Australia, it would be the second RS-badged Skoda vehicle following the 180kW/370Nm Octavia RS245. 

 

Driving all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the Kodiaq RS completed the famous Nurburgring circuit in 9:29.84, which was the fastest seven-seat SUV to lap the track when it was tested in June.

 

The Kodiaq RS adds a number of subtle visual changes over the regular Kodiaq, including a chrome grille, RS badging, sporty front bumper, black mirror caps and roof rails, and sporty alloy wheels.

 

Other details on the Kodiaq RS include Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) system with selectable driving modes and dynamic steering, as well as a Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster. 

 

As mentioned, the Kodiaq RS will be available with a seven-seat option.

 

Few other details have been revealed about the Kodiaq RS, but it will likely retain standard specification from the regular Kodiaq including an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, dual-zone air conditioning, front and rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, nine airbags, a flat-bottom steering wheels and Alcantara seats.

 

Also revealed alongside the Kodiaq RS was the Vision RS concept, a plug-in hybrid hatchback that Skoda says will preview the future of the brand’s RS division.

 

The RS Vision employs an 110kW/250Nm 1.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine, mated to a 75kW electric motor. The brand has not detailed its driveline, however an all-wheel-drive set-up is most likely given its dual power sources.

 

It is the first time Skoda has used plug-in hybrid technology in its RS line-up. Pure-electric driving range is pegged at 70km.

 

The Vision RS hatchback looks unlike any other Skoda model, with sleek headlights, a grille with vertical louvres, sporty front bumper with a protruding black splitter, large alloy wheels, and recessed door handles.

 

Contrasting black-coloured elements are also featured on the roof, rear spoiler and rear window surrounds, while aggressive LED tail-lights, a red stripe across the rear bumper and a black rear diffuser add to its sporty look.

 

Inside, the Vision RS features environmentally friendly vegan seat upholstery, a large, centrally positioned infotainment display and compatibility with Alexa, Amazon’s voice assistance technology.

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