Skoda Octavia RS, 2014
The new Škoda Octavia RS is a continuation of the current model offensive of the Czech automaker Škoda. With its top speed of 248 km/h, the new RS is the fastest production Octavia of all time. Beginning in July 2013, the third RS generation will be entering markets both as a saloon and as an estate. Both model versions are equipped with powerful yet efficient engines, and they boast classy design as well as innovative technology. Furthermore, the new RS models offer all of the Škoda Octavia's outstanding features: outstanding functionality, ample room, top-notch safety, state-of-the-art safety and comfort assistance systems, and excellent value.
The Škoda Octavia has always represented 'a bit more car'. The new Octavia RS represents this tradition as well. "Here's a car that is not stingy with superlatives: It is the fastest and most economical, the largest, roomiest, safest, smartest and most comfortable Škoda Octavia RS that has ever been produced. The new Octavia RS marries power, technology and utility, and it is a perfect car for everyday use and recreation," says Frank Welsch, Škoda board member for technical development.
New engines with more power and lower fuel consumption
Customers can choose between a 162 kW (220 hp) two-litre petrol engine and a 135 kW (184 hp) two-litre diesel engine in the Škoda Octavia RS. Compared with the second-generation Octavia RS, the new engines have up to 10 percent more power while saving up to 19 percent in fuel. Start-stop and regenerative braking systems are standard features. Both engines are available with a manual or a DSG dual clutch transmission, each as a six-speed.
With the 2.0 TSI/162 kW (220 hp) petrol engine, the Škoda Octavia RS accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 6.8 seconds, making the new-generation saloon with manual six-speed transmission 0.4 seconds faster than the previous generation. With its 248 km/h top speed, the new model outruns the second-generation Octavia RS by 6 km/h. Despite significantly improved performance, the new petrol engine with manual transmission is 17 percent or 1.3 l/100 km more economical than its predecessor. This new Octavia RS only uses a combined 6.2 l/100 km. CO2 emissions have dropped by 33 g to 142 g/km.
The 2.0 TDI/135 kW (184 hp) diesel engine also delivers maximum performance and boasts low consumption. The Škoda Octavia RS diesel engine accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 232 km/h. The saloon with manual six-speed transmission averages a combined 4.6 l/100 km and emits 119 g CO2 per kilometre - a 19 percent improvement.
Standard sports suspension, progressive steering and XDS differential lock
On the new Škoda Octavia RS, sports chassis is standard equipment. Furthermore, the clearance is 15 mm lower than in the standard Octavia. The MacPherson front axle with lower triangular wishbone suspension provides precise front tracking. The rear axle uses a newly developed multi-link suspension.
Standard features also include the electronic XDS differential lock, which is part of the ESC electronic stabilisation programme. It improves wheel traction and reduces the risk of understeering in fast cornering. Thanks to XDS, the vehicle's cornering behaviour has become more sporty, faster and more precise.
The new progressive steering provides the third-generation Škoda Octavia RS with better handling and agility. Thanks to this technology, the driver can use smaller steering inputs to achieve a desired curve radius. This means less changes of steering wheel grip are necessary in tight turns. A progressive gear ratio enables this new steering mechanism.
Sporty design: well-bred and classy
The new Škoda Octavia RS conveys pure emotion at first sight. Whether as a saloon or as an estate: The Octavia RS has athletic genes but keeps bragging to a minimum.
The attractive front view is a combination of a characteristic grille, striking air inlets with a honeycomb structure, a new apron and fog lights in RS design as well as new, now standard bi-xenon headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights. The RS plaque in the grille is the seal of this sportiness.
Seen from the side, the body is lower compared with the standard Octavia. Furthermore, the new model has grown in length and width in comparison with the second-generation Octavia. The new Octavia RS is longer (saloon plus 88 mm, estate plus 86 mm) and 45 mm wider than its predecessor. At the same time, the wheel base increased by 102 mm. Both this and a shortened front overhang underscore the vehicle's powerful appearance. Standard red brake callipers, powerful proportions, a high tornado line and sharp, precise edges create passion.
The Škoda Octavia RS's new alloy wheels provide a very sporty touch. The designers created a total of four classy 17", 18", and 19" bi-colour RS wheel designs that are visually striking, optically light with sharp edges and precise craftsmanship down to the last detail. The standard Octavia RS comes with silver 17" Dorado alloy wheels and 225/45 size tyres. Customers have a choice between the Gemini and Pictoris 18" alloy wheels, both of which are suitable for 225/40 tyres. The Gemini wheels are available in two colours: silver and anthracite. Customers preferring extremely sporty rims can choose the 19" Xtrem aluminium alloy rim in black, available through Škoda Accessories.
Sporty black is the dominant colour in the interior of the Škoda Octavia RS. The ambient door handle light on the inside of the front doors is a new feature. For the front seats, customers can choose newly designed RS sport seats in fabric and leather or in full leather, embellished with red or grey contrast stitching. And a sporty 3-spoke steering wheel with perforated leather is now one of the standard features.
