DSG for Skoda's petrol Octavia RS

Skoda's quickest Octavia, the 2.0-litre petrol-engined RS, has so far done without the DSG transmission that came as an option with the turbodiesel RS variant introduced locally in October 2008.

For the 2009 model year that's now been rectified, with the twin-clutch six-speed DSG gearbox now available as an alternative to the standard six-speed manual for a premium of $2300.

As is typical with DSG transmission, the twin-clutch petrol Octavia RS is quick, clean and economical, with an average consumption figure of 7.9L/100km equalling that of the manual version.

The turbo 2.0-litre TSI engine produces 147kW between 5100rpm and 6000rpm, with 280Nm of torque available from 1800rpm to 5000rpm.

RS Octavias are available in sedan or hatch form and add a fair bit of kit to the already generous Skoda: Both petrol and turbodiesel models get 18-inch alloy wheels, a twin exhaust, RS bumpers, rear boot spoiler (hatch), RS sport seats, three-spoke leather steering wheel, red brake calipers and lowered suspension.

This is on top of standard safety gear including six airbags, active front headrests, ESP stability control and ABS with electronic brake-pressure distribution (EBD).

2009 model year updates for Octavia RS include a 'Bolero' touch-screen radio with SD card reader and an additional storage box in the rear armrest.

The manual-transmission petrol Octavia RS was introduced locally, along with the Skoda brand, in October 2007.