2007 Skoda Octavia RS
Previously we mentioned that Volkswagen Australia are going to bring back the Skoda brand this year. However a new brand news a hero car for its reintroduction, and what better car than the Turbo charged Skoda Octavia RS.
The turbocharged Octavia RS will be the top of the range vehicle available from the Skoda range and it wll be officially launched at the Australian International Motor Show (in Sydney) in October.
Last 12 months have seen the introduction of DaimlerChrysler’s Dodge & reintroduction of Fiat and this year so far has seen Toyota's new performance arm, Toyota Racing & Development (TRD).
Nonetheless, Volkswagen Australia believe that the Skoda brand will have to battle it out to become a success.
“Australia is a tough market for manufacturers – almost 50 brands are here - but customers are embracing new brands and we think we probably have a chance. Price level is tough and Skoda is basically selling everything they produce at the moment, so there was a tough discussion going on between headquarters and any potential importer about whether it makes sense or not". said Volkswagen Australia managing director Jutta Dierks
Volkswagen Australia hope to be selling about 10,000 Skoda's per year by the end of the decade. One of the rather odd facts about the "new" Octavia RS is that.. it really isn't new!
The current shape has been on sale in Europe since 2004 and for Volkswagen to have a 3 year old car as their halo car for Skoda's launch in Australia, its a risky gamble.
The Australian version of the second-generation Octavia will measure 4572mm long, 1769mm wide and 1462mm high. The turbocharged RS version will be available in both Sedan and Wagon bodystyles. The Octavia RS is powered by the same engine found in the Volkswagen Golf GTi, the 147kW TFSI turbocharged petrol four-cylinder.
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Video: ‘Top Gear Australia’ first preview and release date
