2025 Skoda Kodiaq here next February, RS due July

The new-generation 2025 Skoda Kodiaq will arrive in Australia next February, followed by the all-new RS performance flagship in July 2025.

The initial large seven-seat SUV line-up will comprise the entry-level Select and middle-tier Sportline variants, both of which will be powered by a 140kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

That peak power output is 10kW down on the European versions, but word is the new Kodiaq RS – which is yet to be revealed – will pack the same 195kW headline figure here as its overseas counterpart, once again courtesy of a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine.

Half of all Kodiaq vehicles sold Down Under are RS versions, so it’s little wonder Skoda Australia is looking forward to the new model’s introduction here in about 12 months.

“It’s been like this for some time,” Skoda Australia head of product and marketing Kieran Merrigan said of the RS sales split.

“I think when you look at the Kodiaq RS there’s not really anything else in market that can offer similar performance at that price point.

“It’s our flagship and it’s a key model for us.”

The original Kodiaq RS packed a punchy biturbo-diesel engine good for a hearty 176kW/500Nm, however, the oil-burner was swapped out for the more athletic (180kW/370Nm) 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine from the Octavia RS in early 2022.

It’s possible the new Kodiaq will also be available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain for the first time, comprising a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, an electric motor and a 25.7kWh battery.

The system outputs a combined 150kW and is good for 100km of emission-free motoring.

Merrigan said negotiations with Skoda HQ were ongoing about offering the Kodiaq PHEV in Australia, but ruled out Europe’s lesser 1.5-litre mild-hybrid powertrain for local release.

He said the new Kodiaq RS will be a “significant step up” compared to its predecessor, with an extra 15kW of power promising improved performance, plus a heap of new cabin tech and sophistication that will be shared with the lower grades.

“A new premium-ness is certainly there but I think one of the key things in the interior is the new smart dials, which have been received really well in Europe,” said Merrigan.

“So moving away from touch-screens, you’ve got haptic dials that are digital and customisable. They’re physical dials that can be programmed to your favourite features.”

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