Skoda Kodiaq vRS review

If we were to ask you to list some likely record holders for Germany’s fearsome Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit, we doubt any of you would mention a diesel-powered SUV. However, the vRS version of Skoda's Kodiaq is the fastest seven-seat SUV ever to be timed around this circuit, zipping around in a respectable 9min 29.8sec.

Although we suspect that a tidily driven Audi SQ7 would decimate this figure, outright performance isn't really what the Kodiaq vRS is about, despite its ’Ring bragging rights. No, this remains a sensible SUV that just so happens to be rather brisk.

How fast? Try 0-62mph in 7.0sec, courtesy of a twin-turbocharged 2.0-litre diesel engine with a potent 237bhp. If it sounds familiar, that's because it's also offered on other Volkswagen Group cars, such as the Tiguan and Tiguan Allspace.

Backing up the muscle, there's standard four-wheel drive and a stronger seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. You also get adaptive dampers and variable-ratio steering thrown in for free to help tighten up the handling. There's also big, 20in wheels and more aggressive body styling –  just to let everyone know you’ve chosen a vRS.

But while we already know just how classy and practical the Kodiaq is inside, the big question is whether the vRS makeover has broadened its appeal or compromised an already very good package. And, if sportiness is what you seek in an SUV, is the Cupra Ateca a better bet?

Keep reading for our full verdict and don’t forget, if you want to buy this or any other new car, check out our New Car Buying pages for huge savings.