Skoda Kodiaq vRS
The new Skoda Kodiaq vRS might be the fastest seven-seater ever (allegedly) around the ’Ring, but it isn’t actually all that different from the standard car. The engine, for example, is a 2.0-litre, 4cyl diesel with twin-turbochargers working sequentially. New to the Kodiaq, sure, but already familiar to many VW Passat and Tiguan drivers.
And why a diesel in the ‘performance’ Kodiaq, given the general move towards petrol? Seat went with the 2.0-litre 300bhp motor from the Golf R for the Cupra Ateca. Surely Skoda could have done the same? But as it happens, 57 per cent of lastgen Kodiaqs sold were diesel, and the diesel unit suits the car rather well. It’s almost as smooth as a 6cyl diesel, and makes short work of the 1,800kg.
A reasonable 236bhp and 369lb ft is supplied to all four wheels through a 7spd DSG auto ’box. 0–62mph takes seven seconds, making it brisk, if not massively fast. It accelerates purposefully, with satisfying surge. The gearbox is smooth too, whether you leave it to its own devices or take control with the disappointingly plastic paddles.
But besides that more powerful drivetrain, the vRS is pretty much as per lesser Kodiaq Sportline models. Looks the same, feels the same inside. You get vRS-specific software for the standard Progressive Steering and Dynamic Chassis Control, but nothing more in-depth than that.
That’s not to say there’s no fun to be had here. Body control is good, and though feel-less the steering is accurate. The ride’s good too, in even the sportiest of the Kodiaq’s six selectable drive modes. You can keep the vRS moving at a reasonable rate of speed using only fourth, fifth and sixth and a couple of thousand rpm. Up to 85 per cent of the power can be sent to any one corner if needs be – though it always feels distinctly all- or front-wheel driven. Grip is good, but where’s the interactivity or engagement?
Taken as a whole, the Kodiaq vRS is a fine thing. But it’s also £42,870. A Sportline with the next biggest diesel engine is over five grand less and only 46bhp down. You see the vRS name and your expectations change. It writes cheques the rest of the car can’t cash.
Skoda Kodiaq vRS £42,870 WE SAY: SKODA’S SUV GETS THE vRS BADGE. NOW IT HAS TO PROVE ITSELF...