Skoda is reportedly working on a vRS performance derivative of its recently-launched Kodiaq SUV.
The Kodiaq, launched last year with UK deliveries following this March, is the first ever full-size SUV from Skoda and it’s available in five or seven-seat configurations. A very important new family car for Skoda, the Kodiaq has been hotly anticipated since the first concept for it was shown to the public.
In more recent months, there has been speculation that Skoda were considering making a performance-focused vRS version of the new Kodiaq to expand the SUV’s appeal further.
At the moment, Skoda only make a vRS derivative for its Octavia range. The facelifted Octavia range launching later this year will retain its vRS specifications.
But it now seems that the Kodiaq vRS is very much happening, according to a recent report. In a recent interview with Evo, the head of Skoda’s Research and Development division Christian Sturbe said that Skoda is working on a new sporty vRS model which will be based on the Kodiaq.
Twin-turbo diesel engine to feature
In the same interview, Sturbe said a Kodiaq vRS would use a 2.0-litre twin-turbocharged diesel engine, the same BiTDI unit available with the latest Volkswagen Tiguan. This engine in the Tiguan produces 237bhp and leads to a 0-62mph acceleration time of 6.5 seconds. We can expect similar performance figures for the Kodiaq vRS, as well as four-wheel drive as standard.
Sturbe also revealed that Skoda were looking into making a vRS derivative of the Superb, a large family car currently available in hatchback and estate forms, but these plans have been put on hold.
Also, while Skoda has made a vRS version of its Fabia in the past, Sturbe played down the chances of the current Fabia receiving such a model. Skoda reportedly does not believe there is a solid business case for making vRS models based on its small cars, therefore ruling out the likes of the Fabia and the Citigo city car.
