Skoda Kodiaq RS vs Volkswagen Tayron R-line: Price, specs, features compared

Skoda Auto India has just launched the new Skoda Kodiaq RS SUV in the Indian market. The limited-run performance SUV quickly attracted strong interest from enthusiasts across the country, and all 50 units from the initial allocation have already been booked.

With all 50 units now sold out, it remains to be seen whether Skoda Auto India will allocate additional Kodiaq RS units for the Indian market.

The Volkswagen Tayron R-Line emerges as the Skoda Kodiaq RS’s nearest competitor in India. The performance SUV also goes up against other premium three-row offerings, including the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster and Jeep Meridian. Of the lot, the Tayron R-Line is the closest match, as both SUVs share similar underpinnings, engine and transmission combinations, all-wheel-drive hardware and comparable market positioning.

In this article, let’s compare the new Skoda Kodiaq RS with the Volkswagen Tayron R-Line. Skoda Kodiaq RS vs Tayron R-Line: PowertrainComparing the powertrain first, both SUVs are powered by the Volkswagen Group’s EA888 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine, paired with a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. The difference lies in the engine tuning. The Tayron R-Line delivers 204hp and 320Nm, whereas the Kodiaq RS produces 265hp and 400Nm, giving it an additional 61hp and 80Nm of torque.

The Skoda Kodiaq RS additionally features Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC+) and adaptive suspension.Skoda Kodiaq RS vs Tayron R-Line: PriceThe Volkswagen Tayron R-Line is priced at Rs 46.99 lakh (ex-showroom) and is assembled in India from CKD kits. In comparison, the Skoda Kodiaq RS costs Rs 66.99 lakh (ex-showroom) and arrives as a fully imported CBU. The import route results in the Kodiaq RS carrying a Rs 20 lakh higher price, although both SUVs occupy a similar premium segment and share closely related mechanicals.

Skoda Kodiaq RS vs Tayron R-line: DimensionsThe Volkswagen Tayron R-Line is 4,792mm long, 1,853mm wide and 1,666mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,791mm. The Skoda Kodiaq RS, meanwhile, measures 4,758mm in length, 1,864mm in width and 1,679mm in height, and also has a 2,791mm wheelbase. Compared to the Kodiaq RS, the Tayron R-Line is 34mm longer, while the Skoda is 11mm wider and 13mm taller. Since both SUVs have the same wheelbase, cabin space is expected to be broadly similar.

Skoda Kodiaq RS vs Tayron R-line: FeaturesMoving inside, both the Volkswagen Tayron R-Line and Skoda Kodiaq RS feature a three-row, seven-seat layout. The Kodiaq RS features RS-specific interior elements, including sports seats with integrated headrests, red contrast stitching, a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.24-inch digital instrument cluster, a 13-speaker Canton audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, powered tailgate, 360-degree camera, park assist, powered driver’s seat with memory function, heated front seats, three-zone climate control, ambient lighting, keyless entry and a panoramic sunroof.

Safety equipment is expected to include nine airbags, ESC, ABS with EBD, traction control, electronic differential lock, brake assist, hill start assist, hill descent control, ISOFIX mounts and Level 2 ADAS.

The Tayron R-line features a large 15-inch touchscreen that is angled towards the driver and controls most of the vehicle’s key functions, leather-appointed front seats with massage function, front-seat ventilation, a fully digital instrument cluster, a panoramic sunroof, customisable ambient lighting with up to 30 colour options, and Matrix LED lighting technology.