Skoda Kodiaq vRS returns with 265hp
Second-generation seven-seater gets more power, same vibe
Easy thing to like, the Kodiaq. It has many seats and lots of space and yet feels no more difficult to park than a bicycle. No wonder it is a family favourite in the UK. The idea of a vRS version originally made sense because it meant Skoda could install a lusty diesel engine in the car, to the approval of pretty much everyone. It seemed to make a bit less sense when the manufacturer switched to petrol - but evidently the transition was successful enough for the model to return for a second bite of the cherry. Welcome then to the new Skoda Kodiaq vRS, now with 265hp.
This is modestly more than before (20hp) and eagle-eyed PHers will note that it draws the vRS level not only with the latest Octavia, but also the current Golf GTI. As you might imagine, its size and shape mean that it won’t be as quick - but with standard all-wheel drive, it’ll still manage a pleasingly brisk 6.4-second-0-62mph time. And on the basis that it’s the latest version of the ubiquitous 2.0-litre EA888 doing the powering - via the equally familiar seven-speed DSG - you can be certain that its 295lb ft of torque will arrive smartly, too.
That’s about it for technical excitement. Skoda mentions that it gets the newly improved Dynamic Chassis Control system (i.e. the one that offers 15 damper settings you’ll never use) but doesn’t suggest it is lower or dramatically different to the standard model. Certainly the brakes have been upgraded with vented discs all round and two-piston brake calipers on the front, but otherwise the vRS seems only mildly breathed on - with the exception of the ‘emotive’ Dynamic Sound Boost that may or may not be naff.
Instead, Skoda’s rundown dives a bit more deeply into the styling confetti, which includes ‘numerous black exterior accents’, 20-inch Elias alloy wheels (also in black) and LED Matrix headlights. You’ll have noticed the ‘sporty front bumper’ that is obviously specific to the vRS, as are the polished stainless steel exhaust tips to the back. Additionally, you get a choice of eight paint finishes: one solid colour and seven metallic, including the wonderfully named Bronx Gold Metallic.
Inside, it’s much as you would expect. The UK will only get the seven-seat version, although interestingly there will be two ‘Design Selections’ offered. The first, unfortunately named ‘Lounge’, comes as standard, but there’s also ‘Suite’ available as an option. The difference is mainly about whether you prefer your sports seats and dash to be trimmed in perforated Microsuede or perforated leather. Assuming it’s the first one, you won’t need to do any ticking; obviously you get Skoda’s latest freestanding 13-inch infotainment screen by default.
And that’s about it. Or it is for now at least - we don’t yet know what exactly the UK spec will look like (or how much it will cost) but expect to hear more about both in the very near future because Skoda says the first deliveries will happen in April next year. As a guide, when John H drove the last one back in 2021, it cost from £45,170. So it’s a safe bet that it’ll be knocking on the door of £50k this time around. Or you could have a nearly new, slightly less powerful one right now for £37k…
Wonder how well it will cope with a full load and all that frontal area? - Given the regular 1.5 PHEV is making 204PS, I'm not sure the (+65PS) performance would justify the level of "bling"?
It isn't the budget brand it once was and seems to be almost a direct competitor to it's parent company given it is going full bling but at maybe a slightly lower price point to keep the badge snobs happy. It isn't a budget brand like Dacia, that's for sure.
Sliders are cheap and cheerful parts and on quite expensive performance models look tacky.
On this though it looks less a feature and more something they just didn't finish, it doesn't look purposefully done.
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