Skoda Octavia RS

The 2021 Skoda Octavia range was revealed in Europe over the weekend, with the model to be fitted with petrol, diesel, hybrid, and compressed natural gas (CNG) options. In total, the Octavia will come with eight powertrains offering 12 performance levels to European buyers. However, Australia will be offered a more focused range of engine options, starting with the familiar 2.0-litre turbo petrol four-cylinder producing 180kW in the flagship Skoda Octavia RS.

The exterior of the next-generation Skoda Octavia has been accidentally revealed via a faulty online configurator a few weeks ahead of its official debut. UPDATE, 22/10/19: We've added a new image from the online configurator which shows the all-new Octavia RS. Let us know your thoughts in the comments! Initially picked up by the Czech Skoda Home forum, the picture fits neatly with the sketches provided by Skoda last week.

Skoda Australia has revealed pricing and specs for the 2019 Octavia RS, now available exclusively with a dual-clutch transmission and the more powerful 180kW engine tune. The car will be offered in RS 2.0 TSI and RS 245 grades as a sedan or wagon, sending 180kW and 370Nm to the front wheels through a seven-speed DSG. An electrically-controlled limited-slip differential is standard across the range, too.

The 2018 Skoda Octavia RS245 will kick off from $43,390 before on-road costs when it arrives in November, the company has confirmed. Compared to the standard petrol-powered Octavia RS, the RS245 commands a $4500 premium. And, unlike the previous RS230 that came before it, the 245 is now a permanent member of the range. Fans will also note availability of both six-speed manual and seven-speed DSG automatic transmissions.

The updated Skoda Octavia RS was unveiled overnight with a smidge more power for the petrol model. Visually, the Octavia's controversial new headlight arrangement is a little less obvious in the RS, as the sports model has a completely dark grille that blends into the secondary headlamp units. The RS models are distinguished from lesser Octavias by their more aggressive front fascia, a full width red reflector and black diffuser style element at the rear, and LED tail-lights.