The last time we paid any attention to the Kodiaq vRS, it was to relate news of the prototype's stage-managed lap of the Nordschleife, a stunt which rendered it the self-appointed 'record' for seven-seat SUVs. Three months later, the car is finally ready for launch proper - just ahead of its debut at the Paris show alongside the slightly more interesting RS Concept.
What more do we know about the manufacturer's first performance branded SUV? Well, nothing that's likely to set your knees trembling. As we explained previously, the vRS is powered by the 240hp 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine that ought to be familiar from a number of other VW Group products (if it isn't, think punchy oil-burning four-pot).
Of course, its output is easily sufficient for the Czech firm to tag it with the 'most powerful diesel engine in Skoda's history' banner, and 369lb ft of torque from 1,750rpm is not to be sniffed at. But there's still a whole Kodiaq to take into account, which a mediocre 7.0-second 0-62mph time clearly does (it being the best part of a second slower than a Passat wagon with the same motor).
Still, drive is delivered to all four wheels via a standard 7-speed DSG and the electronic multi-plate clutch/diff lock which makes up the VW Group's 'intelligent' all-wheel drive system, and it ought to ensure that the Kodiaq's rumbling power delivery ought to be a fairly usable commodity. And it ought to rumble in a fairly interesting way too given the introduction of Dynamic Sound Boost on the inside, which is said to make the car's 'acoustic character more attractive and intense'.
As you might expect from a range-topper, Skoda has worked hard to make vRS's cabin a little more attractive and intense, too. There are Alcantara trimmed sports seats upfront. to go with an instrument panel 'finished in a carbon decor' and Virtual Cockpit as standard (which offers a fifth 'Sport' view that makes the rev counter and current speed appear in the centre of the display). Expect to see plenty of vRS badges as well, and some subtle LED mood lighting.
There will be new badges front and back on the outside, too - but expect the model to be most easily distinguished by the new anthracite Xtreme alloy wheels, which ought to standout at 20-inches. There will also be modified bumpers, gloss black accents in the usual spots and much more conspicuous exhaust tailpipes. How much for all this little lot? Well, that's still TBC for the moment - although we'll confidently wager that it outstrips the £38,500 you'd pay for Superb wagon in Laurin & Klement trim with the 280hp 2.0-litre TSI. Which - rather predictably - will make it the most expensive Skoda on sale, too.
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