Skoda Octavia RS gets a 180kW upgrade

Skoda’s popular Octavia RS will offer more for less from October, with the introduction of a new 180kW petrol tune.

Mirroring updates to the Volkswagen Golf GTI, the RS’ EA888 turbo-petrol engine will have standard outputs raised to 180kW/370Nm in Australia, in changes brought about by the WLTP testing overhaul in Europe.

A 180kW tune of the RS was already available in local showrooms, anchored by lesser-powered 169kW entry models. However, the revisions mean entry into the higher-powered model is now approximately $5000 cheaper than before.

Additionally, Skoda Australia will consign the RS’ manual transmission to history – for now, at least – opting solely for a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission paired standard with an electronically-controlled limited-slip front differential.

The Octavia RS will be available in sedan and wagon forms across two grades of specification – RS and RS245.

The former will be priced from $39,990 in sedan form, the wagon adding a $1500 premium.

Standard features on the entry-level RS include: 18-inch alloy wheels, 8-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, reversing camaera and rear parking sensors. The car’s safety suite will comprise seven airbags, adaptive cruise control, front assist, city emergency brake.

The RS245 uses the same 180kW tune, but adds further equipment to justify its $45,490 plus on-road costs (wagon $46,990) sticker price. Added specification includes adapative chassis control with adjustable dampers, keyless entry and start, front parking sensors and automatic parking capability.

In addition, the RS245 score a further two airbags (total of nine), an upgraded 10-speaker audio system, larger 9.2-inch touchscreen and wireless phone charging.

Across the Octavia RS range, Skoda has made its Virtual Cockpit display a $700 optional extra. And as before, it offers the go-fast sedan and wagon set with a luxury pack ($2800) bringing leather-appointed seat upholstery, electrically adjustable driver and passenger seat, lane assist, blind spot detection, heated front and rear seats and auto dimming/folding door mirrors.

Both RS versions can be purchased with three-year ($860) and five-year ($1700) servicing packs covering general maintenance.

How much is the 2019 Skoda Octavia RS?

*Prices exclude on-road costs