Oliver Solberg behind the wheel of the new Octavia RS

The New Škoda Octavia RS comes with lots of new features. Rally driver Oliver Solberg tried out its more powerful engine and modified chassis. What were his impressions of the RS version of Škoda’s best-selling model?

6. 8. 2024 Škoda World

The Octavia RS has made huge progress over its four generations. The latest version has a supercharged two-litre TSI engine with 265 horsepower under the bonnet, 20 hp more than its predecessor. “Having this power on tap is great. You don’t really have to think about what gear you’re in – just touch the throttle at basically any revs and the Octavia shoots forward. I also like the sound of the new exhaust, which sounds fabulous, especially in Sport mode. It’s a proper sporty sound that doesn’t even need speakers inside. Sport mode also offers a sharper engine response, which makes the throttle respond even quicker,” the Swedish rally driver says, adding that his competition Fabia RS Rally2 has a similar powertrain base. You can watch him share his observations:

Another new feature that stands out on winding roads is the 15 millimetres lower chassis. “The lower centre of gravity has a big impact on the handling, just like in a racing car. The Octavia RS is fantastically agile in fast corners and the brakes can take a lot,” Oliver Solberg says. But making the Octavia RS more sporty has done nothing to compromise comfort on long journeys. The car is firm and precise, but the shock absorber settings aren’t too harsh. “Drivers will appreciate the combination of speed and comfort, especially on normal roads. This is thanks to a chassis that is responsive and precise, but still not too stiff,” Oliver explains.

Škoda Octavia RS

The key to a fun drive

“I also like the balance. The Octavia’s large boot gives it a pretty large overhang behind the rear axle. Compared to a hatchback, you have more weight in the back, and that’s always the key to making driving fun. It’s especially noticeable on corner entry, where the Octavia turns all the way around nicely, and can be very neutral in its handling. With the stabilisation system in ESC Sport mode, the car can even oversteer slightly, and that’s something I like,” Oliver adds, pointing out that he is of course talking about racing on a circuit, not day-to-day driving on the roads.

Škoda Octavia RS

The Octavia RS has a more angular front end with a sportier look and new headlight graphics, whose line is now lowered. LED Matrix headlights come as standard. The leading edge of the bonnet slopes more towards the radiator grille, giving the entire front end a lower and more dynamic appearance. Inside, you’ll find the tried-and-tested body-hugging sports seats with integrated head restraints, handsome décor with a combination of black and red elements and, in keeping with the RS tradition, a wealth of equipment. “You'll appreciate all this especially on longer journeys,” adds Oliver Solberg.

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After spending a day in the car, this is how Solberg summed up his experience. “It was great to drive. The Octavia RS is the perfect combination of speed, fun and, of course, comfort.”