New Delhi: Skoda Auto India has announced the expansion of its performance-focused RS portfolio with the upcoming launch of the all-new Kodiaq RS, further strengthening the brand’s motorsport-inspired legacy in the country.
Bookings for the new performance SUV will open on June 22, 2026, marking the next step in Skoda’s efforts to bring its globally recognised RS (Rally Sport) identity to the Indian market.
Built on more than five decades of RS heritage and over 125 years of motorsport engineering excellence, the new Kodiaq RS aims to blend high performance with luxury and practicality. The model combines strong driving dynamics, advanced 4×4 capability, and the versatility of a seven-seater premium SUV, positioning it as a flagship performance offering in Skoda’s India lineup.
Speaking on the announcement, Ashish Gupta said the RS badge has long represented the brand’s global performance DNA and has built a strong enthusiast following in India over the years.
He noted that the previous generation of the Octavia RS saw overwhelming demand, with the latest iteration reportedly selling out within minutes of its launch, highlighting the growing appetite for performance-oriented vehicles in the Indian market.
According to him, the new Kodiaq RS continues this legacy and marks a significant milestone as it becomes the first seven-seater SUV in India to carry the iconic RS badge. It also represents one of the fastest Skoda SUVs introduced in the country to date, combining speed, space, and off-road capability with the brand’s racing heritage.
The RS badge, short for Rally Sport, has traditionally symbolised precision engineering, dynamic handling, and an engaging driving experience across global markets. With the introduction of the Kodiaq RS, Skoda aims to extend this philosophy into India’s premium SUV segment, offering a more performance-driven alternative within a practical, family-oriented package.
The company also emphasised that the launch aligns with its broader differentiation strategy, where each model is designed to meet evolving customer aspirations while strengthening the overall product portfolio.
With bookings set to open later this month, the Kodiaq RS is expected to further intensify competition in the premium performance SUV space in India, combining Skoda’s motorsport heritage with modern SUV versatility.
