Skoda Octavia RS: First impression

The Mk1 vRS (2004) was the first taste of accessible European turbo-petrol performance, instantly becoming a tuner darling and a legend among those who understood what a simple ECU remap could achieve, thanks to its 150hp 1.8-litre turbo engine. The Mk2 Laura vRS (2011) was a bit of a mixed bag. While it looked the part, the initial 160hp tune disappointed many who had tasted the international 200hp specification.

The Mk3 vRS 230 (2017) and the subsequent vRS 245 (2020) were Skoda’s triumphant return to form. Imported as a proper CBU with the full-fat 2.0-litre TSI engine (245hp in its final form), an electronic limited-slip differential, and the correct aggressive stance, it was ballistic. It sold out instantly, cemented its status as an icon, and is now trading for ridiculous money in the used car market.

Which brings us to the latest iteration, where Skoda is playing to the purists, and the styling reflects that intent. It’s evolutionary, sure, but the design is sharp, maintaining the classic two-and-a-half--box silhouette. The new front end, with its angular creases, looks like origami-folded paper, harmoniously integrated with the rest of the silhouette. But the thing about Octavias that no SUV can match is the notchback. This unique liftgate aperture offers unparalleled practicality and a cavernous boot space of 600 litres, giving the Octavia an almost Audi RS5-ish feel to it, at half the price. There's no mistaking the notchback and the practicality it offers. 

The interior design is indeed a bit plain Jane, focusing on function over flamboyant flair. However, the quality is high and the seats, upholstered in Suedia and leatherette, are clearly geared for performance. Crucially, Skoda still understands user interface and the value of hard keys. The presence of a dedicated row of buttons for easy access to drive modes and climate control just below the new 12.8in infotainment screen is a huge win for usability. And the classic Skoda quirky details like the umbrella in the door and door panel waste bin remain. 

On the feature front, the car is well-equipped. While a full Level 2 ADAS suite is often expected in this segment, the RS provides performance-focused driver aids like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, and Blind Spot Detection. The inclusion of a 360-degree parking camera, head-up display, 3-zone AC, Wireless phone mirroring and Intelligent Park assist covers the premium convenience bases. What could be a sore miss for most potential owners are cooled or ventilated front seats. 

Out on the Buddh International Circuit, the RS proves its mettle where it matters most. The chassis is sublime. With 265hp and 370Nm of torque on tap from the 2.0-litre TSI engine, the power is adequate, never feeling overwhelming or intimidating. A claimed 0-100 kmph sprint in 6.4 seconds with a top speed limited to 250 kmph means this car can hustle. The real mastery is in the dynamic setup, which includes Progressive Steering and Sports Suspension. In the tight sections, the turn-in is sharp, and the steering feels super direct. This trait was fully evident during the slalom and autocross sections that were prepared by the Skoda India team. Body control is impeccable, thanks to the chassis tuning and XDS+ electronic differential lock, you only feel a hint of body roll, a remarkable feat considering its daily driver comfort credentials. 

My only minor complaint is that the sonic fury could’ve been turned up a notch. But I appreciate that the engineers chose honesty over theatre, at least a fake aural drama isn't being piped into the cabin through the Canton sound system. The high-end Canton system, with its total output of 675W via 11 speakers and a subwoofer, is a proper audiophile setup, but unfortunately, I couldn't get a chance to experience it due to time constraints.

The 2025 Octavia RS is a blend of performance heritage, segment-defying practicality, and the quiet satisfaction of owning a real driver's car. The only piece of bad news? The entire allocation of the 100 units allotted to India is already sold out. But there is no doubt that Skoda is only wetting our appetite here, and another batch is likely to come at some point. The conclusion is simple: Value for money? Yes. Fun to drive? Yes. A Mamba Green garage? Yes please!