Currently reading: Skoda to launch hot Kodiaq vRS SUV next year
Upcoming hot variant of the Kodiaq will sport more aggressive styling and power

Skoda will launch a hot vRS version of the Skoda Kodiaq SUV next year.

The variant of the five- and seven-seat machine is still in development, and no details of powertrains are available. However, sources describe the model as having "lots of torque" suggesting the range-topping version could have a diesel engine, as with the Octavia vRS.

There is also likely to be a petrol version, like the Octavia vRS, but the focus will likely be on diesel, because the bulk of the Kodiaq market is diesel. It is expected to have standard four-wheel drive.

The Kodiaq vRS will feature some design tweaks to stand out from the standard Kodiaq, which are likely to include more aggressive bumper styling elements and extra trim around the windows and front grilles.

The Kodiaq vRS has now been revealed - get your first look here

Skoda kodiaq 003 008 rhd 2 0

The hot Kodiaq is likely to prove popular in Germany and the UK in particular. In Britain, vRS models account for around 20% of Skoda Octavia sales - and the bulk of those are of the diesel vRS.

Skoda is understood to be considering vRS versions of certain 'special' models where there is demand.

Skoda will also launch a coupé variant of the Kodiaq in the Chinese market, which will be manufactured in that country. While there are no plans to bring it to Europe yet. It is understood the model could eventually be introduced here if the brand believes there is demand and production capacity can be found.

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Skoda to launch Nissan Juke rival in 2019

Skoda Kodiaq review 

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James Attwood

James Attwood, digital editor
Title: Acting magazine editor

James is Autocar's acting magazine editor. Having served in that role since June 2023, he is in charge of the day-to-day running of the world's oldest car magazine, and regularly interviews some of the biggest names in the industry to secure news and features, such as his world exclusive look into production of Volkswagen currywurst. Really.

Before first joining Autocar in 2017, James spent more than a decade in motorsport journalist, working on Autosport, autosport.com, F1 Racing and Motorsport News, covering everything from club rallying to top-level international events. He also spent 18 months running Move Electric, Haymarket's e-mobility title, where he developed knowledge of the e-bike and e-scooter markets. 

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Statto 31 August 2017

BiTdi

If this is true then please let it be the 237bhp BiTdi that's already in the Tiguan.  For several thousands less.

The Apprentice 31 August 2017

Judging by todays web page

Judging by todays web page the Skoda PR rep was in yesterday and bought cake...