Fourth-gen Skoda Octavia RS expected to launch in India by 2022

Tuhin Guha Updated: June 14, 2021, 05:57 PM IST

Following the launch of the fourth-gen Skoda Octavia, the next addition to this sedan's line-up is expected to be the hot RS version. Unlike with the third-gen Octavia, there's not long to wait for the Skoda Octavia RS this time around. Skoda India is looking at launch the Octavia RS in India sometime in 2022. The sports sedan will again be a CBU import and should be available in limited batches of around 150 to 200 cars, like with the previous two versions.

India is expected to continue with the petrol-powered Octavia RS, the hybrid and diesel may not make their way here. Unveiled globally last year, the fourth-gen petrol RS continues with the same 2.0-litre turbo-petrol motor as the last model. The outputs remain identical too, at 245PS and 370 Nm, while a seven-speed DCT also continues. The Dynamic Chassis Control system has been added here along with the RS-specific suspension tuning. This lowers the car by 15mm from the standard Octavia while the control system enables parameters such as suspension, damping and steering characteristics or the gearbox to be adjusted to suit individual preferences. The VAQ electronic limited-slip differential continues as well. Finally, a new RS drive mode has also been added.

Visual changes to the Skoda Octavia RS are similar to what was seen on the previous car. There is a sharper front and rear air dam, with more prominent diffusers. The 19-inch wheels are shod on RS-specific alloys while there are dark highlights and RS-lettering all-around the car. On the inside, the digital instrument cluster carries a new RS-specific layout and there are models-specific graphics for the touchscreen too. Further enhancements here are a three-spoke steering wheel, all-black suede interiors, sports seat and red highlights. Read our review of the fourth-gen Skoda Octavia here

The new Skoda Octavia RS should be priced similarly to the last-gen model at around Rs 35 to 36 lakh ex-showroom when it launches here. Read our review of the last-gen Skoda Octavia RS 245 here.

Watch our review of the new Skoda Octavia below: