A Skoda Kodiaq vRS is coming

Skoda will return to a multiple-vRS line up from mid-2018 when a diesel-only Kodiaq vRS arrives, sitting alongside petrol and diesel versions of the Octavia vRS. Don’t ask us how we know, we just know… alright?

As you’d expect, the bodywork will be suitably enhanced, with deeper body coloured bumpers punctured by larger vents, unique wheels and jazzed-up interior. Expect the springs and dampers to be given a light fettling to cope with more spirited cornering, although the ride height should remain the same – maintaining the Kodiaq’s SUV-ness.

It’s believed only a 4x4 diesel version will be offered – probably the 181bhp 2.0-litre TDI from the Octavia vRS (which outsells the petrol vRS two to one in the UK), although its vital stats (0-62mph in 7.6secs, 142mph, 55.4mpg) will be harmed a little by the seven-seater Kodiaq’s more generous proportions and mass. Alternatively, Skoda could reach for the top shelf of the VW parts cupboard and poach the 237bhp 2.0-litre BiTDI from the VW Passat. We strongly urge them to go for the latter.

Speaking of proportions, the Kodiaq will get a whole new set of them when a coupe version launches in late 2018. Sadly, for all you value-conscious fashion freaks out there, it will only be built and sold in China to begin with, although if Skoda bosses can find more production capacity in Europe it could be sold here in due course.

What European customers can start looking forward to, however, is a third, baby member of Skoda’s blossoming SUV family to sit below the Karoq. Based on the A0 MQB platform (shared with the VW T-Roc and Seat Arona, which gives you an idea of size) the as-yet-unnamed crossover (although it’s fair to assume it will start with a ‘K’ and finish with a ‘Q’, Skoda Kaq? Koq?… your guess is as good as ours) will be front-wheel drive only and go on sale in mid-2019.

New product, especially new SUVs, is more good news for Skoda which is on course to sell close to 1.2m cars globally in 2017, which would be another record-breaking tally following a 1.1m haul in 2016.

Pictured: Skoda Kodiaq Sportline