Fourth-gen Skoda Octavia RS range revealed

Skoda has revealed the fourth-generation Octavia RS and for the first time, you’ll now be able to own the RS in one of the three powertrain options. There’s a 2-litre turbo-petrol with no change, a 2-litre diesel and a 1.4-litre TSI plus plug-in hybrid. All three variants also feature typical RS features including an all-black interior and subtle black bits on the outside.

RS stands for Rally Sport and continuing the tradition is the top-of-the-line 2-litre TSI that churns out 241bhp and 370Nm and sold with the option of either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG gearbox. The 1.4-litre TSI with PHEV churns out an identical combined output of 241bhp while the torque is higher at 400Nm. However, you can have the PHEV with only a 6-speed DSG gearbox. The 2-litre diesel on the other hand churns out a healthy 197 bhp but the addition of AWD (optional) makes it unique when compared to the other two. Skoda hasn’t revealed the performance figures of the diesel variant but the TSI is able to hit 100kmph in just 6.7sec while the PHEV can do the same in 7.3 seconds. Top speed of the TSI is rated at 250kmph while the heavier PHEV manages to hit 225kmph on speedo.

In terms of looks, the RS features numerous black attributes including the grille, diffuser, and air curtains above the exclusive LED fog lights. The wing mirror housings and the window frames also come in gloss black. At the rear of the hatchback, the aeroflaps, diffuser and RS rear spoiler is gloss black too.

All the RS models feature black 18-inch alloy wheels as standard while 19-inchers are offered as an option; the brake callipers boast an eye-catching RS-typical red finish 19-inch alloys are available as an option. The three RS models are fitted with the Virtual Cockpit instrument panel as standard, which offers an additional Sport layout. They come with Driving Mode Select as standard, featuring a new RS mode. You also get a RS-typical sports suspension, which is lowered by 15 mm for the 2.0 TSI and the 2.0 TDI.

We have no word on the launch of the fourth-gen Octavia in the country but 2021 is when we are expecting it to see it on our roads.