Skoda adds to new-look Octavia line-up

Czech firm Skoda has unveiled two important new models based on the redesigned Octavia unveiled earlier this year (more here). The sporty RS and rugged Scout will be crucial models in the company's continued attempts to establish itself in Australia.

Although it hasn't given away any figures, Skoda claims to have improved the RS Octavia's performance all round with a higher top speed, faster acceleration and better responsiveness. The main factor in that have been the changes to the car's aerodynamics, according to the company.

Engineers have additionally stripped 20kg of weight out of the petrol model and 15kg from the diesel. The car has also been lowered 127mm courtesy of its sports suspension.

The RS features the same new front end treatment as the regular Octavia with new headlights and a more aggressive grille and front bumper design. In a first, the RS is available with xenon lights and Skoda's adaptive front lighting system.

Other changes include new 18-inch alloy wheels, a new metallic paint option, updates to the air-conditioning system and a new taillight design.

Engine options include the 147kW 2.0-litre TSI with claimed fuel economy of 7.5L/100km and the 125kW 2.0-litre TDI CR with 5.7L/100km consumption. The only gearbox is the Volkswagen Group's six-speed DSG unit.

The Scout comes in for less work; the main focus being the new front end to bring it in line with the rest of the range. In Europe the Scout will be offered with the choice of two engines; one petrol and one diesel. The petrol option is the 1.8-litre TSI -- producing 118kW -- and the 103kW 2.0-litre TDI. Both are mated to a six-speed manual transmission and a fourth-generation Haldex clutch to give the car better off-road credentials.
 
The RS and Scout are both expected in Australia later this year but we'll have a full report from the international launch next month so check back soon.

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