The Spicy Next-gen Skoda Octavia RS Could Reach Indian Shores Next Year

• The Octavia RS is powered by a 2.0-litre TSI making 245PS/370Nm, with the option of a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG gearbox overseas.

• Other enhancements include a sport differential, lower ride height, larger brakes and Dynamic Chassis Control .

• Exterior enhancements include aggressive bumpers, larger alloy wheels, and  blacked out accents.

• Cabin receives sports seats, an RS-themed digital driver’s display and infotainment system as well as a three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel.

• Will most likely carry a premium over its predecessor that retailed from Rs 35.99 lakh (ex-showroom).

While we await the fourth-gen Skoda Octavia’s launch on June 10, Zac Hollis, Director of Sales, Service and Marketing at Skoda Auto India, has hinted that its performance-focused RS trim is under consideration for India. Unveiled in markets abroad back in July 2020, the RS trim makes the new Octavia a mean-looking  performance sedan the ‘RS’ way.

Speaking with Zac Hollis, he said, “I would love to bring as many as I can at a good price. Certainly it’s something we’re considering. But it won’t happen this year. As a limited edition FBU it is something we’re considering for the future.”

In markets abroad, the main talking point of the Octy RS is under the hood. Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre TSI petrol mill, it makes 245PS of  grunt and 370Nm of twist, the same as its predecessor, the RS245. It can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG gearbox and go from 0-100kmph in 6.7 seconds with a top speed of 250kmph. There’s also a 1.4-litre TSI petrol-hybrid -- a first for the Octavia -- and a 200PS 2.0-litre TDI on offer but the India-spec model will most likely stick with the petrol motor.

In true RS fashion, the new Octavia RS gets other performance trickery such as its ride height lowered by 15mm, larger brakes, a sport differential, as well as Dynamic Chassis Control. This system adapts various parameters of the car such as the suspension, damping, and steering characteristics or the operation of the 7-speed DSG gearbox depending on the mode selected.

The spicier Octavia also looks the part with bolder bumpers, larger alloy wheels with low-profile tyres and blacked out elements all over. Inside, you’re treated to sports seats with an Alcantara finish, a three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel, and an RS-themed Skoda virtual cockpit and touchscreen infotainment.

Since Zac Hollis ruled out a launch this year, we expect the more potent Octavia RS to reach Indian shores by 2022. It is likely to get a premium over its predecessor that retailed at Rs 35.99 lakh (ex-showroom).