2009 Skoda Octavia RS Update Launched

INTRODUCING THE SAME styling updates brought to the rest of the Octavia range earlier this year, Skoda has today launched the new-look Octavia RS.

A largely aesthetic update, the new model is powered by the same turbocharged 2.0 litre TSI petrol and 2.0 litre TDI diesel engines of the pre-facelift model.

The updated Octavia RS, available in both sedan and wagon form, features revised headlights, a refreshed grille and a new, sportier and more aggressive design for the front bumper.

Perhaps the most instantly noticeable feature of the new face, LED daytime driving lights are fitted above the fog lamps each side of the now larger main air intake.

Developing 147kW between 5100rpm to 6000rpm, the turbocharged 2.0 TSI four-cylinder petrol engine features high-pressure direct injection.

Torque for the turbocharged petrol engine is impressive, with 280Nm coming online at 1800rpm through to 5000rpm.

Fuel consumption for the TSI engine is rated at 7.7 l/100km, emitting 179g/km of CO2. The Octavia RS TSI manual liftback crosses 100km/h in 7.3 seconds, and the manual wagon in 7.5 seconds.

The 2.0 TDI common rail direct injection diesel engine is the most power diesel in Skoda's range, producing 125kW. Torque is the diesel's strong suit however, with 350Nm available between 1750rpm and 2500rpm.

Fuel consumption is just 5.9 l/100km on the combined cycle, and CO2 emissions are rated at 155g/km.

The Octavia RS 2.0 TDI manual liftback reaches 100km/h in 8.4 seconds, and the wagon in 8.5 seconds.

Both engines are available with either a six-speed manual or with Volkswagen's six-speed DSG automatic transmission.

Standard active and passive safety features for the Octavia RS include six airbags, front whiplash optimised head restraints, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), advanced Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution (EBD).

Pricing for the new Octavia RS starts at $37,990 for the liftback and $39,990 for the wagon. The optional six-speed DSG gearbox is $2,300.

Note: Prices are Manufacturer's List Price only.