Although the sketches are nice, don’t expect to see the real thing.
The Mlada Boleslav marque will soon unveil an electrified Skoda model with RS badge. The 2020 Geneva Motor Show will see the debut of the Octavia RS iV. It will feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain that can produce 241 horsepower (180 kilowatts), or exactly the same output as the previous-generation Octavia RS 245.
Skoda released a trio design sketches that show both the liftback as well as the more practical wagon to ease the wait for the model’s unveiling in Switzerland next month. Some lines are exaggerated in a teaser to make the Octavia RS iV appear more impressive than it is. The regular model is already a popular choice among compact cars. However, the Rally Sport upgrades will make these electrified performance cars even more attractive.Sticking to tradition, the horizontal LED strip of daytime running lights will soldier on in the new Octavia It comes in RS flavour to distinguish it from the lower versions. The familiar front bumper features large side air intakes and a lower grille. Meanwhile, the vRS logo adorning this grille is the most recent design.Kodiaq RS.
The vehicle’s side profile shows that the alloys that fit in the wheel arches are not so large. The wagon is equipped with black mirror caps, while the liftback’s mirror caps are the same as the body. The Combi comes with an optional black optics package, and the front end has dark accents.
The dual exhaust tips at the rear reveal that this car is a little more special than the regular Octavia. The large spoiler on the liftback is another sign that it’s an upgraded trim. While those air vents in its bumper are probably just for show, they’re likely to be a hint at the car’s higher trim. The wagon’s derriere is not yet visible in a photo, but the Combi will have a large roof-mounted spoiler. The RS logo will move from the bottom-right corner of the screen to the left, as shown in the teaser. The Skoda badge, as with regular Octavias is no longer there and will be replaced by large letters “SKODA”. Another clue is the large red reflector.
Skoda designed the Combi with a right hand-drive layout, unlike the LHD configuration of the hatch. The interior images aren’t available right now, but you can see that the Octavia RS iV features two body-hugging front seats and integrated headrests.
In less than a month, we will have all the details. We also hope to learn more about the traditionally-powered versions. Skoda will sell the new Octavia RS in TSI-only or TDI-only variants. These versions should be cheaper and lighter than the PHEV version. It will be interesting for Skoda to confirm whether diesel will once again be available with all-wheel drive. Additionally, it would be great for gasoline models to have an optional AWD layout.