Powering into space: All-new Kodiaq vRS seven-seater

As befits it position as the sporting flagship of the new Kodiaq range, the vRS comes with a feature-packed specification list. Included as standard are LED Matrix beam headlights, KESSY Advanced system with Open On Approach and Walk Away Locking, Canton sound system and an electrically operated boot with Virtual Pedal.

The new Kodiaq vRS is powered by a 2.0 TSI petrol engine that develops 265 PS - an increase of 20 PS over the previous model. The motor’s torque output of 400 Nm is the highest of any current combustion-powered Škoda production model and gives the Kodiaq remarkable flexibility and performance. The new vRS is capable of sprinting from 0-62 mph in just 6.4 seconds and has a top speed of 143 mph. Despite its remarkable performance, it returns 33.8 mpg on the WLTP combined cycle.

Power distribution to all four wheels is handled by a seven-speed DSG transmission, while a new Dynamic Sound Boost system ensures that the Kodiaq vRS has a soundtrack that matches its sporting nature. 

The all-new sporting flagship of the Kodiaq range features a design package, which is unique to the vRS sub-range, that includes a gloss black finish for the grille frame, D-pillar and window frames.

The vRS model has a redesigned front bumper with various elements finished in black, along with a horizontal light strip in the grille. As with all Škoda vRS models, the rear features a reflector strip that spans the entire width of the car. The Škoda lettering and model designation on the tailgate also come in black, while the rear bumper and side sills are painted in body colour. Polished stainless-steel exhaust tips are visible under the rear bumper while standard 20-inch Elias alloy wheels with a polished black finish, complete the vRS design package.

The bespoke vRS Lounge Design Selection includes sports seats with integrated headrests and black microsuede/artificial leather upholstery with red contrast stitching. Both front seats are electrically adjustable as standard and come with a memory function. The headlining is finished in black while the dashboard panels, door inserts and centre armrest are all trimmed with black microsuede material.

The driving environment is suitably sporty with a three-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel with red stitching and a vRS badge on the lowest spoke. Stainless-steel pedal covers are included as standard while the front door sills feature Kodiaq lettering.

The laminated glass of the acoustic side windows at the front and rear improves comfort inside the car through even better sound insulation. And, like the other Kodiaq models, the vRS features both a 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit and a free-standing 13-inch infotainment screen as standard. To ensure that drivers are in no doubt about the model they are driving, the infotainment system displays a vRS welcome logo upon start-up.

Naturally, the Kodiaq vRS has a chassis set-up designed to appeal to driving enthusiasts. Progressive steering is fitted as standard, along with DCC Plus Dynamic Chassis Control, which extends the range of damping characteristics. DCC Plus offers 15 settings ranging from comfortable to sporty and continuously adjusts the dampers to deliver an optimised driving experience. Drive Mode Select is also included as standard. This allows drivers to choose between Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport, Individual and Snow modes, each with corresponding electronic damper adjustment. An Off-Road mode is included as well.

Finally, to ensure that the Kodiaq vRS stops as efficiency as it accelerates, drivers benefit from ventilated front and rear brake disks and larger two-piston calipers on the front axle. To further enhance its sporting credentials, the calipers are finished in gloss red.

In addition to the new vRS model, Škoda is also introducing a new engine option to the Kodiaq range. A new 2.0-litre TSI petrol unit delivers an output of 204 PS and 320 Nm of torque and is available on SE L and SportLine trims. All models equipped with the new engine feature a seven-speed DSG gearbox and 4x4 all-wheel drive as standard.

Kodiaq SE L (7 seat) 2.0 TSI 204 PS DSG 4x4 £45,255.00

Kodiaq SportLine (7 seat) 2.0 TSI 204 PS DSG 4x4 £47,755.00