One may not expect a mid-sized seven-seat SUV to emerge victorious at the Nurburgring; yet this vRS version proves otherwise with its powerful 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine.
It is a reliable unit used across Volkswagen Group vehicles and capable of propelling the Kodiaq from 0-60mph in just 6.4 seconds.
1. Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC)
Skoda has released their performance mid-sized SUV offering, the Kodiaq vRS. Priced similarly to premium badged crossovers from other manufacturers, this unique design provides more personality, family utility and economical running costs while offering thrilling acceleration than any of its rivals.
Its 261bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine is 20bhp more powerful than its predecessor and enables acceleration from rest to 62mph in just 6.4 seconds while reaching top speeds of 143mph.
DCC (adaptive chassis control system), controls electrically regulated dampers and steering at the touch of a button. Drivers can choose between Normal, Sport or Individual modes to tailor driving characteristics further using settings menu.
2. Adaptive Chassis Control (ADC)
As with other Kodiaq vRS models, this SUV features progressive steering and an adaptive damping system which adapts its settings depending on which drive mode is selected. Furthermore, a new system called Dynamic Sound Boost emits synthetic engine noise which varies in tone and volume according to which driving mode you select.
Skoda’s vRS specific adaptive suspension offers a smooth ride through winding roads, cushioning harsh bumps and potholes very effectively despite having 20-inch wheels.
This vehicle offers more excitement to drive than its Volkswagen Tiguan R and entry-level Porsche Macan counterparts, but remains family friendly, accommodating five children and two adults comfortably. Boot space measures 289L with all seats occupied while expanding to 794L when all three rows have been folded flat.
3. All-wheel drive
Skodas tend to steer nicely, with an assured amount of weight and sensible gearing – and the Kodiaq vRS is no different. Hustling this massive but pretend-sensible family SUV down a back road can be surprising satisfying and enjoyable.
The powertrain in the vRS is well matched to its design, offering quick acceleration and reaching a top speed of 144mph in an almost two-tonne vehicle. Furthermore, DCC Plus Dynamic Chassis Control features 15 settings to suit various driving environments (off-road mode or adaptive dampers can be adjusted individually).
Road and wind noise levels are well suppressed, too – even when riding over short imperfections with 20in wheels on them the ride never becomes unduly harsh. Inside is also delightful with a stylish dashboard and comfortable sports seats that don’t encroach too significantly into rear legroom.
4. Adaptive dampers
The Kodiaq vRS’s 20-inch “Elias” alloy wheels and red “vRS” badges make no attempt at disguising its enormous size; it weighs almost two tonnes, can seat seven people, and accelerates from zero to 62mph in less than one second.
Skoda’s vRS range has long been known for combining family car functionality with sporty handling; and this model is no different. Cornering shows off expertly judged steering and suspension setups; adaptive dampers offer three levels of stiffness – softest setting can be too wallowy while stiffest gives excellent body control without compromising compliance.
The vRS can also be equipped with an all-wheel drive system, sending power to each wheel as necessary. Should any tire lose grip while traversing slippery roads, brake pressure can be applied directly to it to assist recovery efforts.
5. Dynamic steering
Skoda’s philosophy of ‘Simply Clever’ can be seen throughout its Kodiaq SUV, which embodies this saying by offering practicality with interior aesthetics while being fun to drive. Achieving this feat requires great ride quality on 20-inch wheels as well as a strong braking system capable of quickly stopping this large seven-seater.
The Kodiaq’s engine, the same EA888 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol found in the Golf GTI and Octavia vRS, fits it well, providing plenty of power with smooth delivery. There’s even an Sport mode to handle twistier roads safely while progressive steering makes handling the car even safer.
Choose a seven-seater model if desired, as its boot space is impressive with all seats up or down. Furthermore, its second row can fold flat to make this family-friendly vehicle ideal for school runs as much as any hatchback would be.