Škoda’s new-generation Kodiaq vRS will deliver 265hp of power, all-wheel drive and boosted equipment when sales open next week.

Škoda’s new-generation Kodiaq vRS gets a 20hp power boost over the previous model

Priced from £52,595, the sporting flagship of the large SUV launches some nine months after the rest of the second-generation line-up and delivers more power and performance than the previous vRS range-topper. It also benefits from all the practicality, comfort and design improvements introduced on the new model.

Available solely as a seven-seater, it’s powered by a 2.0 TSI petrol engine that delivers 265hp – up 20hp over the previous model – and 400Nm of torque; the highest figure yet of any current combustion-powered Škoda production model.

Power is sent to all four wheels via a seven-speed DSG transmission, giving 0-62mph in 6.4 seconds and a top speed of 143mph. Efficiency-wise, it returns 33.8mpg on the WLTP combined cycle.

Progressive steering is fitted as standard, along with DCC Plus Dynamic Chassis Control, which extends the range of damping characteristics and offers 15 different suspension settings. Drivers can also choose from pre-programmed Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport, Individual, Snow and Off-road modes, each with corresponding electronic damper adjustment, via the standard-fit Drive Mode Select. And a new Dynamic Sound Boost system enhances engine noise.

The new range-topper of the Kodiaq range also comes with standard-fit LED Matrix beam headlights, keyless entry and start with open on approach and walk away locking, Canton sound system and an electrically operated boot with Virtual Pedal.

It also gets the full vRS treatment when it comes to design, adding extra black details including for the horizontal light strip in the grille, body-coloured door sills and rear bumper, the latter featuring a full-width reflector strip, polished stainless-steel exhaust tips and 20-inch alloy wheels with a polished black finish.

The interior comes with the bespoke vRS Lounge Design Selection that 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 interior also gets a three-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel with red stitching and vRS badge and stainless-steel pedal covers.

Onboard technology includes a 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit and a free-standing 13-inch infotainment screen as standard, as with the rest of the Kodiaq range.

Orders for the new Kodiaq vRS open from 16 January 2025.

In addition to the new vRS model, Škoda is also introducing a new engine option to the Kodiaq range. The 2.0-litre TSI petrol unit delivers 204hp and 320Nm of torque, and is available on SE L and SportLine trims, priced at £45,255 and £47,755 respectively.

All models equipped with the new engine feature a seven-speed DSG gearbox and 4×4 all-wheel drive as standard.