2020 Skoda Octavia Combi RS

ŠKODA is continuing the tradition of its performance RS models in the fourth-generation OCTAVIA too. This iteration, however, is the first in which the Czech car manufacturer is offering three different drive systems: in addition to the OCTAVIA RS versions with either a petrol or a diesel engine, the OCTAVIA RS iV – the brand’s first RS plug-in hybrid – is now being launched. Both the 2.0 TSI OCTAVIA RS and the OCTAVIA RS iV have an output of 180 kW (245 PS). The 2.0 TDI produces 147 kW (200 PS) and is the only model in the RS range to be available with all-wheel drive on request. All three variants feature sporty bodywork detailing including RS-typical black touches. The interior, with its traditional and dynamic design, is also predominantly black.

Since the success story of ŠKODA’s RS family began in the year 2000 with the first-generation OCTAVIA, the sportiest versions of a variety of the Czech manufacturer’s production models have borne the distinctive abbreviation ‘RS’. The letters stand for ‘Rally Sport’ and are reminiscent of the ŠKODA 180 RS and 200 RS rally prototypes as well as the success of the ŠKODA 130 RS at the Monte Carlo rally in the 1970s. ŠKODA built more than 17,600 units of the first OCTAVIA RS featuring a 1.8-litre turbo engine and generating 132 kW (180 PS) as a hatchback initially – and, as of 2002, also as an estate. More than 87,800 of the second-generation OCTAVIA RS rolled off the production line. In addition to a 147-kW (200-PS) petrol engine, it was also offered for the first time with a 125-kW (170-PS) diesel. The third-generation OCTAVIA RS, launched in 2013, was even more successful. It was the first to boast the continuous red reflector strip at the rear, which has been a defining detail of RS models ever since. It was initially available with a 162-kW (220-PS) petrol engine, and later also with 169-kW (230-PS) and 180-kW (245-PS) petrol engines. The 2.0 TDI had an output of 135 kW (184 PS) and offered all wheel drive as an option for the first time in an RS. A total of more than 172,000 vehicles were produced. In Germany, the United Kingdom and Switzerland, RS variants now account for more than 20 per cent of models in the range.

A choice of three drive concepts now available
In the fourth generation of the OCTAVIA RS, customers can opt for one of three drive systems for the first time. With a power output of 180 kW (245 PS), the new OCTAVIA RS iV with plug-in hybrid drive and
6-speed DSG as well as the OCTAVIA RS equipped with a 2.0 TSI petrol engine and a manual 6-speed gearbox or 7-speed DSG are each on a par. The 2.0 TDI delivers 147 kW (200 PS); it is always coupled with a 7-speed DSG, and all-wheel drive is an optional extra. The control electronics of the optional all wheel drive react to changing driving conditions within a fraction of a second and support the driving dynamics, for example when cornering fast. Here, the system transfers part of the driving torque to the opposite wheel when the load on the inner wheel is reduced, and maintains traction.

František Drábek, Head of the Compact Model Range at ŠKODA AUTO, said, “No matter which drive concept you opt for as an OCTAVIA RS enthusiast, ŠKODA’s RS models deliver exactly what you would expect: they combine the performance that has been cherished by customers for decades and supreme everyday practicality. All three drive systems are convincing with their consistent power delivery and excellent fuel consumption, and showcase the latest technology in impressive style.”

Sporty appearance featuring RS-typical black details
RS models traditionally look much more dynamic than other OCTAVIAs. In addition to exclusive front and rear aprons, they feature numerous black attributes. These include the ŠKODA-typical grille, diffuser, and Air Curtains above the exclusive LED fog lights. The wing mirror housings and the window frames also come in gloss black, as do the COMBI’s roof rails. At the rear of the hatchback, the aeroflaps, diffuser and RS rear spoiler are gloss black too. The COMBI’s roof spoiler is body-coloured. RS models feature black 18-inch alloy wheels as standard; the brake callipers boast an eye-catching RS-typical red finish. 19-inch alloys are available as an option. The sporty top-of-the-range versions are characterised by exclusive vRS badges on the ŠKODA grille and tailgate. Standard equipment includes the innovative full LED Matrix headlights, which are making their OCTAVIA debut.

Dynamic, RS-style interior
The interior of all OCTAVIA RS models is predominantly black. The redesigned multifunction leather sports steering wheel has three spokes and bears the RS logo. It has rearranged buttons and new knurled wheels in a chrome design; vehicles with DSG feature shift paddles. The front sports seats with integrated headrests are upholstered in black fabric, whilst the optional ergonomic seats come with a cover made of Alcantara®, leather and artificial leather as well as seat-depth adjustment and a massage function. The seats bear the RS logo and coloured decorative stitching in red or silver-grey, which can also be found on the leather steering wheel, the armrests and the Alcantara®-covered instrument panel. Carbon-effect decorative strips and pedals in an aluminium design add the finishing touches to the car’s athletic appearance.

Virtual Cockpit with Sport layout; Driving Mode Select with RS mode as standard
The three RS models are fitted with the Virtual Cockpit instrument panel as standard, which offers an additional Sport layout. They come with Driving Mode Select as standard, featuring a new RS mode. All driver assistance systems from the fourth-generation OCTAVIA are of course also available for the RS variants. These include the new Collision Avoidance Assist, Turn Assist and Exit Warning as well as Local Traffic Warning.

Dynamic Chassis Control with new functions
In the three nippy range-topping models, dynamic driving characteristics are ensured by the progressive steering system (standard) and RS-typical sports suspension, which is lowered by 15 mm for the 2.0 TSI and the 2.0 TDI. Dynamic Chassis Control is available as an option and constantly adjusts the damping, thus enabling a particularly dynamic driving style in Sport mode. In Driving Mode Select, DCC now enables parameters such as suspension, damping and steering characteristics or the operation of the DSG to be adjusted to suit individual preferences. These adjustments are made using sliders via the central touchscreen. The ground clearance of the OCTAVIA RS iV remains unchanged when equipped with DCC. In TSI variants, an electronic VAQ limited-slip differential provides more traction on the front axle. The two most powerful versions feature 17-inch brakes, whilst the diesel is fitted with 16-inch brakes at the front and 15-inch brakes at the rear.

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