The updated Škoda Octavia RS comes exclusively with the 2.0 TSI engine delivering 195 kW (265 hp), an increase of 15 kW over the predecessor. It produces 370 Nm of torque and is always mated to a 7-speed automatic DSG transmission. From a standing start, the hatchback reaches 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds; the Combi estate does it in 6.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
The standard sports suspension is lowered by 15 millimetres and, together with the progressive steering and electronically controlled VAQ limited-slip differential, ensures excellent traction and driving dynamics in any situation. The RS-specific adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) can be installed as an option. It enables the driver to select Normal, Comfort, Sport or Individual mode for the chassis settings. Excellent braking performance is ensured by ventilated disc brakes measuring 340 × 30 mm at the front and 310 × 22 mm at the rear. Furthermore, the Octavia RS versions now feature genuine sports exhausts with black tailpipes as standard. New engine software supports the cars’ powerful sound. It increases the engine’s revs on start-up and delivers even more enjoyment when driving in Sport mode.
Extensive, hallmark RS detailing emphasises the car’s sporty appearance. The Škoda grille surround, the window frames and the wing mirrors are finished in high-gloss black, as are the roof rails on the Octavia Combi RS estate. Black accents can also be found on the front apron, which has a unique and sporty look. The rear section is dominated by a black painted rear diffuser. In typical RS style, the rear valance features a red reflector strip stretching across the entire width of the vehicle. The rear side windows and the rear window are tinted (“Sunset”). Exclusive to the Octavia RS are the standard black and aerodynamically optimised 18-inch Comet alloy wheels, available in gloss black as an option, and new 19 inch polished Elias alloy wheels in silver or anthracite with large black aero trims. The RS models are the only Octavia variants to come with LED Matrix beam headlights as standard. They include LED rear lights with animated turn indicators and the animated Coming/Leaving Home function. In addition, they feature a new RS logo design, which can be seen on the exterior badge as well as in the interior. An electric tailgate with a virtual pedal and the advanced KESSY function also come as standard.
The interior of the Škoda Octavia RS is predominantly finished in sporty black. The 13-inch central display and navigation system are included as standard, as is the automatically retractable load cover in the Combi. The interior features sports seats with integrated headrests, a new RS logo and quilted fabric upholstery with red stitching on the seat bolsters as standard. The design section of the dashboard is covered with neoprene and has double rows of contrast stitching in red. Artificial leather is found on the door trim panels. The decorative strips on the doors have a gloss black finish, while the dashboard features Black Middle Carbon trim. The three-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel with shift paddles is covered in leather, while the pedals have a stainless-steel look.
In the optional RS Suedia Design Selection, the sports seats feature perforated covers made from Suedia microfibre and artificial leather. There is also additional red stitching on the seat surface and backrest. The ergo comfort seats come with electric adjustment, a memory function and seat cushion depth adjustment as standard. They also offer adjustable lumbar support and a massage function as standard in the Octavia RS. The combination of Suedia and artificial leather can also be found on the door panels in the RS Suedia Design Selection. The design section of the dashboard is covered in Suedia and features double rows of contrast stitching in red.
