Volkswagen Golf GTI Vs Skoda Octavia RS: The Clash Of Performance Cars

Some cars are worth writing about, and the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Skoda Octavia RS are definitely in that category. These two cars are global icons and have a fan base of their own in many markets. The Octavia RS was discontinued on our shores in 2023 due to the emission norms and will be reintroduced in a new avatar. Fans of the iconic Polo demanded that Volkswagen bring back the hot hatch, but instead, we will be getting the larger Golf in its most potent GTI version. While the Golf is a much superior product than the Polo in all measures, it is also a much more expensive car. Ok, enough diverting from the topic!

In this report, we compare the upcoming Volkswagen Golf GTI with the Skoda Octavia RS. Both share the same VW DNA but have different demeanors. Let’s break down the same: 

Design 

Both the Golf GTI and the Octavia RS have a sporty appeal and look really desirable. For those who are less aware of these two legendary cars, it is important to know that the Golf is essentially a hatchback, while the Octavia is a sedan. The Octavia gets a large butterfly grille and a more macho fascia, while the Golf boasts a sleeker fascia featuring sharp LED DRLs. Both come with respective GTI and vRS badging. 

The Golf measures around 4.3 metres in length (the size of a Hyundai Creta), while the Octavia RS measures around 4.7 metres. In short, the Octavia RS is the larger one out of the two, and this could lead to more space inside the cabin. 

The Golf is offered globally with 18-inch (optional 19-inch) alloy wheels, while the Octavia gets 19-inch wheels as standard. Both cars get a blacked-out shark fin antenna for a sporty appeal. Both are equipped with chunky bumpers, and the Golf comes with a flashy dual-tip exhaust system. The Octavia gets plenty of blacked-out elements at the rear as well that add a nice, sporty touch. 

Interior 

Step inside, and you will notice an evident difference between their cabins. The Golf GTI shares its cabin with the standard Golf but with added sporty touches all over the interior. For instance, it gets a GTI-specific digital instrument cluster and sporty red inserts. The Octavia RS has a darker black and red theme, which clearly sets it apart from the regular Octavia. Both the Octavia RS and Golf GTI come with sport seats, which offer great support over sharp corners. Both cars come equipped with large touchscreen infotainment systems (around 13 inches in size), which give them a modern look. Both the cars get a sporty-looking three-spoke steering wheel, which get the respective GTI and RS badging, so you do not forget flooring the pedal every time you want a grin on your face. 

Features 

The Golf GTI and Octavia RS both offer a cabin loaded to the brim with all the modern tech and amenities. The top common features include a 10.25-inch driver’s display, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, multi-zone climate control, a heads-up display, powered and ventilated front seats, multi-colour ambient lighting, and a wireless phone charger. 

Safety features for both include a bunch of ADAS features, multiple airbags, electronic stability control (ESP), a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and an electronic parking brake. 

We will be comparing their features in detail once the models are launched in India and we get more information about their specifications. 

Powertrain 

Here’s a detailed look at their specifications: 

Coming from the same family, both are powered by the same engine that is tuned slightly differently for the two. The Octavia makes more power output, but it is the Golf which reaches the 100 kmph mark quicker since it's the lighter one amongst the two. The top speed of both cars is electronically limited to 250 kmph. 

Expected Price 

The Golf GTI will be launched in India around April 2025, while the Octavia is expected to be launched in the second half of 2025. The Golf GTI will likely be priced around Rs 52 lakh, while the Octavia RS will probably be priced around Rs 45 lakh (ex-showroom). 

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is for those who like hot hatchbacks and want to own a real Volkswagen with the OG German DNA. The Skoda Octavia RS needs no description, especially if you are an enthusiast. It is quick, sporty and looks extremely classy as well. It is for those who have a family of 5, but also want something which they can enjoy with when they want to. We are excited and glad that Volkswagen and Skoda are bringing these two models to our shores, and we can't wait for their launches. 

Which one out of the two do you like more? Let us know in the comments.