More power for next generation
Skoda has announced the second generation of its Kodiaq RS is more powerful than its predecessor with a 2.0 TSI petrol engine delivering 195kW and 400Nm of torque.
The updated model sports glossy black exterior details and standard equipment includes LED Matrix beam headlights, progressive steering and a Canton sound system.
The new engine in the SUV is combined with a seven-speed direct-shift gearbox and all-wheel drive, while dynamic sound boost ensures an emotive engine sound.
All-wheel drive is delivered by an electro-hydraulically controlled inter-axle multi-plate clutch, supported by various sensors that continuously evaluate the driving situation.
The control unit calculates and applies the optimal power distribution, allowing up to 100 per cent of torque to be redirected to the rear axle, and up to 85 per cent to a single wheel.
The all-wheel-drive set-up also increases the braked towing capacity of the vehicle to up to 2,500kg.
Progressive steering is standard in the Kodiaq RS, which has a MacPherson strut suspension with lower triangular links and torsion stabiliser up front, and a multi-link suspension with torsion stabiliser on the rear axle.
All brake discs come with red-painted calipers and are ventilated and sized to match the performance of the car.
The five-seater comes with disc brakes measuring 340mm x 34mm on the front axle, while the seven-seater bumps these up to 335mm x 30mm with double piston calipers.
The rear axles on both variants are fitted with disc brakes measuring 310mm x 22mm with one-piston calipers.
The second-generation Kodiaq RS features 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.
It also has a distinct front bumper with various parts finished in black. Another exterior highlight is the front grille featuring a horizontal light strip.
The standard 20-inch Elias alloy wheels have a polished black finish and are exclusive to the RS, which is available in a choice of eight exterior finishes.
Another standard feature is the latest-generation DCC Plus Dynamic Chassis Control, which offers 15 settings ranging from comfortable to sporty and continuously adjusts the dampers.
Driving mode select is also a feature of all models and allows drivers to choose between eco, comfort, normal, sport, individual and snow modes, each with corresponding electronic damper adjustment, and offers an off-road mode as well.
On the inside there is a three-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel, a 10-inch virtual cockpit with a free-standing 13-inch infotainment screen, and a Canton sound system.
Pricing starts from $95,000 plus on-road costs. Pre-sales are now open, with limited supply due to arrive in New Zealand in late 2025.
