Skoda Octavia RS Might Be Revived For India Market

Report from Autocar India suggests that Skoda Octavia RS might be relaunched in India. Previously, the Skoda Octavia RS was exported to India as CKD units (completely-knocked-down units). But this time around, it is more likely to be delivered via CBU (completely built unit) route.

Also read - Skoda Octavia Corporate Edition Launched At Rs 15.49 lakh

Skoda Octavia RS was introduced to Indian customers for the first time back in 2017 at the price of Rs 24,63 lakh. It was in sales shortly for just one month and a haft. Within this time, 300 units available were sold out. Another 200 units were imported to meet the increasing demand. The sales was halted after 500 units were cleared. Thanks to the relaxed import norms that allows carmakers to import 2,500 units per year without homologation, Skoda might reconsider the Octavia RS for Indian launch.

The new Octavia RS might  be imported to India via CBU unit

The last Octavia RS launched in India was of the RS 230 AT variant. This variant is powered by 2.0-litre TSI engine that churns out 230 BHP and 350 Nm. However, if the rumour is true, it is likely that the top-spec RS 245 will be introduced. This top-range vehicle is capable of producing 245 PS and 370 Nm, which is more powerful than the previous RS 230. The transmission choice would include a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Here we will make a quick comparison of the two versions’ specs. The RS 245 could do the 0-100kmh sprint in 6.6 seconds which is slightly quicker with than the RS 230 (6.7 second with MT and 6.8 seconds with AT). The top-speed on the Skoda Octavia is 250 km/h, which is on par with the RS 230 MT and marginally higher than the RS 230 AT (244kmph). In addition to the performance specs, the RS 245 also has a wider rear track, allowing better handling.

New Skoda Octavia RS could offer better performance than its predecessor

Another good news is that the Skoda Octavia RS 245 will feature Virtual Cockpit system that includes a large 10.25-inch full-digital instrument cluster with RS-exclusive interface. The previous 17-inch wheels of the India-spec RS 230 will be replaced with bigger 18-inch units.

However, as the new Octavia RS might not be assembled in India as its predecessor, the price hike is unavoidable. If the RS 130 was available at around Rs 25 lakh, the new RS 245 will go on sales at around 40 lakh.

Be updated on the latest car news in India by visiting our website  - IndianAuto.com