Skoda is set to thrill Indian car enthusiasts with the launch of the all-new Octavia RS, a dynamic sedan blending exhilarating performance with family-friendly practicality. Showcased at Auto Expo 2025, this sporty vehicle is slated to hit Indian dealerships in early November, though in limited quantities, much like the Volkswagen Golf GTI introduced earlier this year.
Power-Packed Performance
The heart of the new Octavia RS is a robust 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine, delivering an impressive 261 horsepower and 370 Nm of torque. This engine, shared with the latest Golf GTI, is paired with a swift 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox, channeling power to the front wheels. An electronically managed limited-slip differential enhances cornering precision, ensuring the car grips the road firmly without wheel spin, even during spirited drives.
A unique feature, dubbed โEmotion Start,โ activates with a long press of the ignition button, instantly revving the engine to 2,100 rpm for a thrilling roar through the dual-outlet sports exhaust. The Octavia RS sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds and reaches a capped top speed of 250 km/h. Braking is equally confident, with large 340 x 30 mm front and 310 x 22 mm rear ventilated disc brakes providing strong stopping power.
Advanced Handling and Comfort
Globally, the Octavia RS offers a Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) system, which adapts the suspension to the driverโs selected mode for a tailored ride. While this feature is absent in the Indian-spec Golf GTI, Skoda may include it for the Octavia RS, aligning with its positioning as a versatile family sedan. This system ensures a balance between sporty handling and everyday comfort, making it ideal for both thrilling drives and daily commutes.
Practicality Meets Style
Beyond its performance credentials, the Octavia RS excels in practicality. It boasts a spacious 600-litre boot, which expands to 1,555 litres with the rear seats folded, perfect for family road trips or weekend getaways. The exterior design is bold yet refined, featuring sleek LED Matrix headlights, dynamic LED tail lights with animated indicators, and a hands-free power tailgate activated by a foot gesture. While 19-inch alloy wheels are available globally, the Indian model is expected to come with 18-inch wheels to better suit local road conditions.
Modern and Sporty Interior
Inside, the Octavia RS offers a driver-centric cabin with a premium feel. Carbon-style accents, a mix of fabric and artificial leather upholstery, and aluminium pedals create a sporty ambiance. A 10.25-inch digital driver display offers customizable views, while a 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation. These features ensure connectivity and convenience for both driver and passengers.
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Pricing and Availability
Skoda plans to bring the Octavia RS to India as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), which may position its price around โน55 lakh (ex-showroom). With its limited availability, this high-performance sedan is poised to attract enthusiasts seeking a blend of speed, style, and practicality.
