2019 Skoda Kodiaq RS
About the Car
2019 Skoda Kodiaq RS
The Škoda Kodiaq RS is the first SUV in Škoda’s sporty RS family and also the new spearhead of the Czech car manufacturer’s SUV campaign. The performance model is powered by the most powerful production diesel engine in Škoda history with a power output of 176 kW (240 PS). It demonstrated its capabilities with a record lap time of 9 minutes 29.84 seconds on the toughest race track in the world – the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife. The performance SUV is the first Škoda to also feature Dynamic Sound Boost for a particularly emotive engine note.
The Škoda Kodiaq RS comes with all-wheel drive as standard. It provides everything the ever-growing target group for powerful SUVs could wish for thanks to its exceptional dynamics both on and off the road as well as its particularly bold appearance. It uniquely combines a modern lifestyle with sportiness; the efficient and powerful diesel engine impresses with its sustainability. With the perfect mix of a dynamic driving experience and excellent suitability for daily use, the Kodiaq RS is the first SUV to combine the distinguishing qualities of all the Škoda RS models.
Sportiness meets suitability for daily use
From a big shopping trip or a family outing to sporty usage on- and off-road, the Škoda Kodiaq RS is well equipped for almost anything that everyday life can throw at it. The Czech brand’s first performance SUV is aimed at active and design-focused customers. With the Škoda Kodiaq RS, they can cultivate their modern lifestyle and highlight it with the car’s sporty appearance. The SUV offers sporty and enjoyable driving on the road thanks to its powerful engine. In addition, it can transport mountain bikes to a remote downhill mountain track in its spacious boot and can easily cope with moving house on a small scale. In a nutshell: the Škoda Kodiaq RS combines the qualities of a sporty, long-distance vehicle with those of a robust and very safe family car.
Škoda Kodiaq RS with exclusive details
It is not just the brand’s most powerful diesel production engine and Dynamic Sound Boost, which provides a particularly striking sound, that are making their debuts in the new Škoda Kodiaq RS. It is also the first time a Škoda features 20-inch Xtreme alloy wheels as standard. Furthermore, the range of standard equipment includes full-LED headlights and LED tail lights. Selected body elements in gloss black underpin the sporty appearance of the Škoda Kodiaq RS. In addition to the engine, the 7-speed DSG and intelligent all-wheel drive also contribute to the dynamic driving characteristics; progressive steering as standard ensures particularly safe and agile handling.
Furthermore, the sporty RS also offers all the advantages of the large Škoda SUV. In addition to its spacious boot, the Škoda Kodiaq RS provides plenty of room for five or seven occupants, depending on the chosen version. It offers the latest technology for infotainment and connectivity. The car features a Wi-Fi hotspot and enables access to the Škoda Connect services. And in Škoda-typical style, the Kodiaq RS also makes everyday driving that little bit easier with numerous Simply Clever features.
Engine: Kodiaq RS features the most powerful diesel engine in Škoda history
The engine of the Škoda Kodiaq RS is a new milestone in the history of the brand from Mladá Boleslav, which spans more than 120 years. With its power output of 176 kW (240 PS) and maximum torque of 500 Nm, the engine exclusively available in the new performance SUV is the most powerful diesel engine used in a Škoda production vehicle to date.
The core of the Škoda Kodiaq RS’s powerful 2.0 TDI is its two-stage biturbo technology. The 2-litre engine features two complementary turbochargers connected in series. The first is a high-pressure exhaust gas turbocharger with a small turbine, a small compressor wheel and electronic turbine blade adjustment. This structure allows for an immediate response, even at lower engine speeds. The second turbo is a low-pressure charger. With its large turbine and compressor wheel, it achieves a considerably higher boost pressure of up to 3.8 bar at high engine speeds, which increases the engine output considerably. At lower engine speeds, the chargers work in two stages. The low-pressure charger is responsible for the pre-compression of the air drawn in; the high-pressure charger is responsible for the main compression. At high engine speeds, only the low-pressure charger is used in single-stage operation. Structured in this way, the turbo system guarantees continuous power output with a short reaction time and high peak values.
Great driving performance with low consumption
Thanks to the biturbo technology, the 2.0 TDI already delivers its maximum torque of 500 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm; the peak power output is 176 kW (240 PS). This gives the Škoda Kodiaq RS great driving performance. The all-wheel-drive SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds (five-seater) and has a top speed of 221 km/h.
The 2.0 TDI is powerful, yet extremely efficient. Average fuel consumption is just 6.4 litres of diesel per 100 km, which equates to CO2 emissions of 167 g/km. The Škoda Kodiaq RS is fitted with an oxidation catalytic converter and a diesel particulate filter directly on the engine as well as an SCR catalytic converter for exhaust gas treatment and fulfils the Euro 6d-TEMP emission standards. In order to achieve these figures, Škoda AUTO has implemented numerous technical measures, used direct injection in the biturbo and has integrated a Stop-Start system as well as brake energy recovery. The elaborate thermo-management system with a switchable coolant pump also has a consumption-reducing effect. The system quickly brings the engine to the desired operating temperature after the engine has started.
Škoda’s decision to use a diesel engine for a high-performance vehicle such as the Kodiaq RS is justified by its numerous advantages. The target group for large SUVs such as the Škoda Kodiaq is cost-conscious. Thanks to the low consumption of 6.4 litres per 100 km, running costs remain below those of a comparable petrol engine despite the high level of driving performance, and CO2 emissions are considerably lower.
In addition, thanks to its higher torque, the diesel is better suited to towing a horse box or boat trailer, for example. In total, 57 per cent of the engines in the Kodiaq model range worldwide are diesels.
Emotive and distinct sound with Dynamic Sound Boost
A dynamic car needs a sporty sound. That’s why, in the Kodiaq RS; Dynamic Sound Boost is used for the first time in a Škoda. Dynamic Sound Boost is a system that modulates the sound of the car. The dedicated control unit for this system reads CAN bus signals such as the engine speed, torque, selected gear and speed. It calculates a specific signal using complex algorithms. The actuator, which is positioned close to the exhaust tailpipe, produces an ‘artificial’ sound based on these signals, and interferes with and supplements the original note of the exhaust system to create an emotive and sporty sound.
This means different sounds can be generated depending on the driving mode or the driver’s preferences. The spectrum therefore ranges from quiet to particularly sporty. Just like the Dynamic Chassis Control, the three sounds available in the Škoda Kodiaq RS are coupled with Driving Mode Select. In Comfort mode, the Kodiaq RS has a soft and reserved sound; in Normal and Snow mode it is considerably more dynamic. By choosing Sport mode, the SUV’s performance takes on a particularly powerful note accordingly. In Individual mode, the driver can choose the tone to suit their individual preferences. In Eco mode, Dynamic Sound Boost produces no additional sound, and the car sounds very quiet.
Technology: Well-equipped for any challenge with all wheel drive and a 7-speed DSG
With its intelligent all-wheel drive as standard, the Škoda Kodiaq RS is perfectly equipped for a wide variety of needs on- and off-road as well as for all weather conditions. The SUV has an output of 176 kW (240 PS) and the power is transferred variably to all four wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG). The settings for the dampers are automatically adjusted to suit the driving conditions or the respective terrain at any time using Dynamic Chassis Control, which also comes as standard.
With its generously sized dual clutch, the 7-speed DSG has been specially designed for use with powerful engines such as the Škoda Kodiaq RS’s biturbo diesel and its maximum torque of 500 Nm. It transfers the power gently and comfortably or with the lightning-fast speed of a sportscar without losing any traction and to suit the conditions and the selected driving mode. The driver can allow the gearbox to automatically change gear or they can select the gears manually – also using steering wheel paddles.
All-wheel drive reacts within milliseconds
Thanks to its all-wheel drive, the Škoda Kodiaq RS automatically has the best-possible traction at all times, providing excellent driving dynamics when driving in a sporty manner, good off-road capabilities and more safety in bad weather such as rain or snow. A fifth-generation electronically controlled multi-plate clutch, which is more compact and 1.4 kg lighter than its predecessor, distributes the power variably to all four wheels within milliseconds and virtually without the driver noticing. It does this depending on the driving situation detected by the car’s sensors – and even in anticipation. Up to 85 per cent of the torque can go to a specific wheel; with small loads, only the front wheels are powered to save fuel. EDS electronic differential locks at the front and rear also prevent individual wheels from spinning on the same axle. The spinning wheel is slowed down automatically and more torque is transferred to the second wheel with better traction.
Dynamic Chassis Control specially adjusted for the RS
The Škoda Kodiaq RS comes equipped with Dynamic Chassis Control as standard, which provides optimal shock absorption to suit the surface and driving style. The system, which is also used in other Kodiaq models, was specially adapted to the sporty potential of the Škoda Kodiaq RS. Driving Mode Select allows the driver to choose from Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport, Individual and Snow modes with correspondingly electronically adjusted settings for the dampers, and to activate an Off-Road mode using a button in the centre console.
Hill-Descent Control is then available at speeds of up to 30 km/h and the ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), EDS electronic differential locks and Traction Control System (TCS) all operate with special off-road settings. The ESC features two stages in the Škoda Kodiaq RS. If the Sport mode is selected, the ESC becomes less restrictive and even allows a small amount of drifting in corners when the system recognises that the driver has the vehicle under control.
Progressive steering combines sportiness and ease of use
The Škoda Kodiaq RS is equipped with progressive steering as standard. To do justice to the performance SUV’s sporty capabilities and to enhance the dynamic driving experience, progressive steering provides a steering configuration that has been developed specifically for the Kodiaq RS. With this setup, the steering angle remains small, allowing the driver to control the car perfectly without having to move their hands on the steering wheel – even at higher speeds. In contrast, for larger steering angles – such as when turning at low speeds in the city – the steering forces are considerably reduced, making the car easier to manoeuvre. Progressive steering is therefore the perfect solution for all situations.
Design: Dynamic appearance and premiere of new RS logo
The Škoda Kodiaq RS presents itself as a member of the RS family, which is specifically designed for sportiness, with a bold and dynamic design as well as with the RS logo. Adorning the sporty lifestyle SUV, it features for the first time in a new version with red highlights. The bodywork emphasises the car’s performance aspirations with gloss-black details. For the first time at Škoda, the new Xtreme 20-inch alloy wheels are included in the standard equipment.
The redesigned RS logo that adorns the radiator grille and back of the Škoda Kodiaq RS is even more modern and fresh. It marks the SUV as the youngest member of the RS family. The logo features the ‘v’ for victory; the red colour symbolises sportiness and power. The latest version of the Kodiaq is immediately recognisable as an RS model: The bumpers at the front and rear have been redesigned, and – as with all RS models – the rear features a reflector that spans the entire width of the vehicle. The exhaust system’s decorative tailpipes with chrome effect are visible below the rear apron.
Black accents and red brake callipers
The radiator grille’s vertical slats and frame, window frames and wing mirror housings, as well as the Škoda Kodiaq RS’s roof rails all come in gloss black and emphasise the SUV’s sporty appearance. The Xtreme 20-inch alloy wheels come in anthracite as standard. The Kodiaq RS is the first Škoda to offer wheels of this size as standard.
The bright red brake callipers, which signify high performance even under heavy strain, are clearly visible through the wheels. The Škoda Kodiaq RS is equipped with 17-inch brakes on all wheels compared to the standard Kodiaq’s 16-inch brakes at the rear. For the Škoda Kodiaq RS, the diameter of the rear brake discs was increased to 310 mm. They are 22 mm thick, ventilated and are slowed down using pistons with a diameter of 42 mm. Single-piston brake callipers with a piston diameter of 60 mm are used for the front wheels. The discs, which are also ventilated, are 30 mm thick and have a diameter of 340 mm.
LED technology for the headlights and tail lights as standard
The Škoda Kodiaq RS makes use of state-of-the-art LED technology for its headlights and tail lights. At the front, it features full-LED headlights. The tail lights with bright LEDs that illuminate almost immediately also come as standard.
Race Blue metallic paintwork for the first time on an SUV
The first SUV in the sporty RS family is also the first to offer the metallic Race Blue finish. At the start of 2019, Crystal Black will be added to the range of colours available for the Škoda Kodiaq RS, which, in addition to red and white, also includes various shades of grey and black.
Interior: Sporty interior with Virtual Cockpit as standard
Even as the performance variant, the Škoda Kodiaq RS remains a true Kodiaq and perfectly combines its sporty lifestyle with a high degree of comfort, a generous amount of space for up to seven people and the brand-typical level of practicality. The sporty flair is emphasised by Alcantara® upholstery with contrasting stitching for both the seat covers and door trims, the instrument panel with carbon decor and the new RS logo. The freely programmable Virtual Cockpit, which comes as standard, blends in nicely with its dynamic appearance thanks to its carbon-effect background and offers an additional Sport view. The Škoda Kodiaq RS also offers numerous Simply Clever features that make everyday life easier, including the umbrella compartment in the front door and misfuel protection as standard.
The Škoda Kodiaq RS also confidently bears the new RS logo in the interior – featuring it on the multifunction sports steering wheel, the 7-speed DSG’s gearstick knob as well as on the front and two outer seats in the second row. Furthermore, refined materials, subtle contrasting stitching and red features create sporty accents. The sport seats with integrated headrests in the first row are covered with Alcantara®, carbon-leather and leather, and are adorned with RS-specific red contrasting stitching in a diamond-cross design. Alcantara® is a material frequently used in motorsport due to its low weight and good grip; it is also used in the Škoda Kodiaq RS’s door trims. Here, it is finished with black, diamond-cross stitching. Red stitching features again on the steering wheel and the armrests in the doors.
Carbon decor on the instrument panel, a black roof lining and pedal covers made from stainless steel complete the SUV’s sporty appearance. The door sills featuring the Kodiaq logo and the LED package with ambient lighting come as standard. This can be set to one of ten colours: Cool White, Fire Orange, Cinnamon, RS Red, Pink, Purple, Dusk Blue, Azure, Škoda Green and Acid Green.
New Sport view for the standard Virtual Cockpit
The new Škoda Kodiaq RS’s freely programmable Virtual Cockpit, which comes as standard, features a sporty, carbon-fibre effect and offers an additional fifth display mode. This Sport view positions the speedometer and rev counter in the centre, allowing the driver to clearly see their speed and rpm even when driving in a very dynamic style. In contrast, the radio station or navigational information is displayed smaller. Alongside all this sportiness, however, there is still plenty of room for comfort. A tinted rear window and rear side windows (SunSet) and an electrically adjustable driver’s seat with memory function feature as part of the standard equipment. Along with the driver’s preferred driving mode, the selected seating position can be saved in the optional personalisable key. Upon opening the car, these settings are then automatically applied. As an option, the child safety locks for the rear doors can be operated electrically.
Available with the option of seven seats
As with every Kodiaq, the sporty RS model comes with five seats as standard which can be increased to seven as an optional extra. The five-seater offers an impressive 725-litre boot with the seats in position and 1,960 l when the seats are folded down. With all of its seats occupied, the seven-seater has a boot capacity of 230 l; this increases to 715 l with the third row of seats folded down and 1,950 l with the second and third row of seats folded down. As standard, Škoda equips the Kodiaq RS with the Bolero infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity as well as SmartLink+ technology. With an integrated Internet connection, the optional Amundsen and Columbus systems allow access to Škoda Connect’s mobile online services. In combination with Škoda Media Command 2.0, the free Škoda app enables the functions of the Amundsen and Columbus infotainment systems to be controlled on up to two paired tablets.
A Phonebox with inductive charging for mobile phones is available as an option. This wirelessly connects a smartphone to the car’s aerial and charges it inductively in line with the Qi standard, providing the device is technically compatible. An optional package includes an additional front USB port, the Jumbo Box’s rear USB port and a 230-V socket between the front seats for the rear passengers. The In-Car-Communication (ICC) makes communicating with each other in the car easier by using a microphone to capture what is said by the occupants of the front seats and amplifying it in real time through speakers in the rear.
Simply Clever features for the Škoda Kodiaq RS
In typical Škoda style, the Škoda Kodiaq RS offers numerous Simply Clever features that make everyday life easier. The standard equipment includes the removable and retractable boot cover and boot nets. Classics such as the umbrella compartment in the front door and ice scraper in the fuel filler flap (for selected countries) are also standard, as is a ticket holder on the A-pillar on the driver’s side. The virtual pedal, electric tailgate incl. tip-to-close function and the removable LED torch in the boot are available as an option.