GENEVA MOTOR SHOW: Plug-in Skoda Octavia RS iV unveiled
Czech brand's first-ever hybrid hot hatch brings 180kW, 60km of pure-electric range and ultra-low emissions, but unlikely to make it hereFull details and pictures of the 2020 Skoda Octavia RS iV have been released following the plug-in hybrid hot hatch's online reveal overnight.
Already teased in the lead-up to its ill-fated reveal at the Geneva motor show, the plug-in iV version of the Skoda Octavia RS will be offered in both the hatch and wagon variants alongside the more traditional petrol and turbo-diesel RS models.
Generating 180kW and 400Nm from its petrol-electric hybrid powertrain – a 1.4-litre turbo-petrol engine, plus a 13kWh battery and 85kW electric motor – the quick Skoda can travel up to 60km in EV mode or combine both motors to deliver a 0-100km/h time of 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 224km/h.
Like the upcoming Mk8 Volkswagen Golf GTE it shares its powertrain with, the plug-in hybrid hatch (and wagon) channels its power to the front wheels via a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Sitting 15mm lower than the standard car, the Octavia RS iV is said to gets its own bespoke chassis tune while, externally, you'll be able to pick out the sporty charging plug and a distinct body-kit that features an aggressive front bumper, rear diffuser, rear spoiler and gloss black 18-inch rims.
The performance flagship also gets Skoda's latest LED-matrix headlights and LED tail-lights and there's also the option of larger 19-inch alloys.
Inside, heavily-bolstered Alcantara sport seats take pride of place and the same pseudo suede finish has been applied to the headlining and dash in front of the passenger.
Ahead of the driver, meanwhile, is a sportier three-spoke steering wheel and a full digital instrument panel, while a 10-inch landscape-mounted touch-screen infotainment system also joins the Octavia RS party.
The plug-in Octavia RS iV goes on sale in Europe in the third quarter of 2020, but sadly for those who desire a fast, efficient hatch or wagon, it's almost certain to be ruled out for Australia.
Instead, when the next Skoda Octavia range arrives Down Under in early 2021, it's likely to include a new RS version powered by a non-hybrid 180kW/370Nm 2.0-litre turbo-petrol powertrain.
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