Skoda launch new Octavia RS 230

Skoda has announced the Irish launch of a new version of its Octavia RS model — the RS 230.

Propelled by a 230bhp two-litre petrol engine — Skoda has upgraded the two-litre TSI engine by 10bhp — and combined with a six-speed gearbox, the car will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 6.7 seconds. Top speed potential is 250kph. This makes the Octavia 230 RS the fastest ever production Octavia. The 2.0 TSI can also be combined with an automatic six-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The car comes in a choice of hatchback or Combi (estate) version and is the flagship of the Octavia RS range and will cost €35,995, €620 more than the older model.

Features in addition to the rest of the RS range include the ‘black’ design package (black glossy door mirrors, grill and roof rails for the combi), black glossy exhaust tailpipe, a sports exhaust tailpipe with a sports sound, 19in Xtreme alloys with a black glossy finish, and a black grid on the bumper.

Inside, the car gets a special black leather interior, a colour Maxi Dot display with a Lap Timer, a 3-spoke Supersport multi-function steering wheel with controls for the phone and radio and in DSG models, there are paddle shifters behind the wheel. It also features electronically controlled front seats, with a memory function.

The Octavia RS 230 is the brand’s first car to feature an electronically-controlled front axle inter-wheel lock (front differential lock) as standard — a feature well suited to dynamic cornering. This provides greater traction, reduces understeer during acceleration and provides more accurate vehicle behaviour.

The RS 230 has a starting price of €35,995 for the hatchback model with a six-speed manual gearbox and €37,095 for the Combi version.