Skoda Octavia RS First Impression

To set the tone of things to come let me just throw in some numbers for you. A top speed of 250kmph, a 0-100kmph time of 6.8 seconds, 226hp from 5500-6200rpm and 350Nm of torque from as low as 1500rpm to 4500rpm. That is what Skoda has managed to churn out of the 2.0L, 4 pot, turbocharged, petrol TSI motor in the new Octavia RS. With those figures out of the way I can safely tell you that the Octavia RS is menacingly fast. But the Raymond racing track built by Gautam Singhania is not really designed for speed, much rather to drift. It would make an ideal proving ground for the agility and stability of the new Octavia RS.

Putting this performance saloon through its paces I floored the accelerator and was off in a jiffy. The engine revs freely and the turbo is tuned with precision. The engine has been mated to a 6-speed automatic DSG gearbox which is accurate in most situations. The transmission shows no signs of lag and is quick to downshift when more power is demanded. Skoda has built the Octavia RS on a sports chassis which lowers the ride by 15mm. The Czech manufacturer has also bolted on their electronically regulated XDS+ limited slip differential as part of the standard equipment. While cornering on the track the XDS+ will gently brake the inner wheels and transmit more torque to the outer wheels. Thus rendering more control in corners.

The suspension setup on the Octavia RS leans on the stiffer side. The steering has been weighted well, it gave a very solid and sporty feel. The braking setup on the Octavia RS also features discs in the front and rear. Progressive in nature, these brakes are accurate and sharp, making for a controlled and confidence inspiring ride. While putting the Octavia RS in some tight corners and accelerating rapidly out of them, I was thoroughly impressed with the control and power it had to offer. But that alone does not define this sedan.

Skoda has also been known for their solid build and lavish appeal. The Octavia RS does a fabulous job of seamlessly combining that with a very sporty appearance both in and out. The sedan's facade sports a bold looking bumper with broad honeycomb air inlets. Skoda's new headlamp design theme for the Octavia also sits well with the overall sporty theme of the sedan. Skoda has also slapped on the RS badges on the radiator grille and tailgate. The tailgate also features a spoiler. On the inside a black colour scheme dominates and sets a raffish tone. Skoda has installed Alcantara sports seats which are comfortable and provide decent support. The seats also feature red topstitching along with the vRS logo where in 'v' stands for Victory.

The overall package of the Octavia RS can be defined as sporty and exquisite. Not only has Skoda packed in the right amount of power and performance, but the Octavia RS also gets just the right amount of features and fitment to create a very comfortable and technology rich driving experience. What was extremely remarkable was the way, the Octavia RS handled its weight and was able to shift its line almost instantly, almost like the race pedigree greyhound. Coming in at a price point of Rs. 24.62 lakh (ex-showroom) the Octavia RS is a sure shot winner in my book with not just the performance to thrill but looks and features to elate you.