A while ago, Skoda made the headlines when it unveiled the Octavia RS iV. As the first-ever plug-in hybrid to join the RS family, it attracted lots of attention. Not more than half a year after releasing the RS iV plugin hybrid, the Volkswagen Group sub-brand introduced the Octavia RS iV for the 2021 model year with the same great design and technology, but new powertrain options.
The 2021 Octavia RS delivers an excellent driving experience, thanks to its drive modes, smooth drivetrain, and agile handling, much like its Octavia vRS sibling.
From its distinctive exterior design to its tech-packed interior, here are the most outstanding features of the 2021 Škoda Octavia RS.
The 2021 Škoda Octavia RS: Strong TSI And TDI Engines Available
Following the success of the Octavia RS iV plug-in hybrid, Skoda decided to introduce the 2021 versions with the TSI and TDI engines. This not only provides options to Octavia RS's dedicated buyers, but it also opens the Škoda Octavia RS to new customers.
Here, the 2021 Škoda Octavia RS has a standard 2.0-liter TSI engine, which produces 245 horsepower (180 kilowatts) at 6,500 RPM and 273 pound-feet (370 Newton-meters) of torque at 4,300 RPM. This power output places it right above Volkswagen’s 2021 Golf GTI - which makes 228-horsepower and 258 lb.-ft of torque. It's also light years ahead of the 2021 Honda Civic, with the 158-hp base engine output.
The base TSI engine comes with an exclusive front-wheel-drive configuration. You can choose to have this engine send power through a 6-speed manual or the optional 7-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) from the Volkswagen Group. But if you need an engine with more pulling power, then the TDI powertrain is the answer. The Octavia RS’s 2.0 TDI engine makes 200 horsepower with a higher torque of 295 lb.-ft, marking it as the most powerful TDI-fueled Octavia yet. The TDI engine also comes with a four-wheel-drive as standard. But there’s an optional all-wheel drive for customers who have a few extra bucks. Also, keep in mind that the TDI can only be had with the Direct Shift.
The 2021 Škoda Octavia RS: Smooth And Engaging Drive
Thanks to the great powertrain and drivetrain complement, the Škoda Superb is a pleasure to drive. It’s also an ideal vehicle for long-distance travel. Its smooth and versatile in-gear feel makes it ideal for both city and highway driving. The Octavia RS has a dynamic drive, courtesy of the steady chassis and rapid steering.
Like its modern counterparts, the 2021 Octavia RS comes equipped with a unique Drive Mode system. This allows the driver to throttle response, the steering, and the suspension systems, to give you a drive that suits every condition. The gearbox doesn’t miss a beat when shifting through gears. You should certainly have a great time driving the Octavia RS, whether in town or on the highway.
With the standard TSI engine, you should expect a sprint from zero to 62 mph to take about 6.7 seconds. It also has a top speed of 155 mph, placing it on a head-to-head route with the 2021 Audi S3 and the Ford Mustang Ecoboost. On the other hand, the Octavia RS’s TDI engine can propel the vehicle from a standstill to 62 mph in 6.8, with a top speed of 151 mph.
The 2021 Skoda Octavia RS Has A Bold Character
As we said earlier, the 2021 Octavia RS was inspired by the plug-in iV version released the prior year. In terms of appearance, the vehicles are the same, except for the ‘iV’ emblem that was initially present on the tailgate and fender. The Octavia RS features uniquely-designed headlights that blend in very excellently with the large grille. It also has exceptional fog lights, which come standard.
The 18-inch alloy wheels boost the vehicle’s side profile with the RS-typical brake calipers. Customers that want more ground clearance can opt for the available 19-inch wheels. The hatchback version gets a black RS spoiler, while the estate version gets a color-matched spoiler.
The 2021 Škoda Octavia RS: Dynamic Interior With Lots Of Amazing Technology Features
First, the interior of the Škoda Octavia RS is predominantly black. The three-spoke leather steering wheel features an RS logo and comes with a pair of paddles for the dual-speed automatic transmission. The front sports seats are also equipped with black fabric, adorned with an RS logo and decorative embroidery. The steering wheel and armrests are also covered in silver or red stitching. The optional Ergo seats come with leather upholstery and seat-depth adjustment.
The inside features a sporty look, thanks to the strips of aluminum attached to the pedals. The center of its interior is a standard 10-inch touch-screen infotainment set-up, nicknamed “Columbus”. This system comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as navigation and more. As a complement to the RS trim, the Virtual Cockpit incorporates the RS logo and animation.