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Feann Torr11 Nov 2016
NEWS

More Skoda RS models possible

High-performance Octavia RS could soon be joined by RS versions of Superb, Kodiaq

Australian new-vehicle buyers have long had a penchant for fast cars and Skoda has been dining out on this predilection for performance.

The company's best-selling car is the Octavia, and the most popular version of the mid-size liftback and wagon is the Octavia RS -- by a significant margin.

With the huge interest in its Octavia RS, Skoda Australia Director, Michael Irmer, said the company's go-fast RS sub-brand has big potential in this country and that Skoda's head office in the Czech Republic is actively researching its next RS model, based on the Superb large car.

"It would be absolutely fantastic for us to have it [Superb RS]. I have heard that the factory is evaluating it right now, but it's unconfirmed [for production]," said the Skoda Australia chief.

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"The question is also what engine you put in it? Is it a petrol engine or a diesel engine, because Europe is very diesel heavy," he queried.

"Then we'll make an assessment when we know for sure if it's confirmed and what is confirmed."

Currently the most powerful Skoda Superb is an AWD variant powered by a VW Golf R-based 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine (206kW/350Nm) that rips to 100km/h in 5.8 seconds.

The Superb RS would need to be quicker, look more menacing and deliver improved driving dynamics. But that's certainly not an impossibility and with markets like Australia eager to pay a premium for an athletic model, Irmer is upbeat.

"But what is certain, any performance version is going to be hot for Australia," he said.

Skoda is also eyeing off a hot RS version of its new SUV, the Kodiaq seven-seater.

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Although it's not due in Australia until July or August 2017, the Kodiaq could be a perfect addition to the RS family, with sales of SUVs continuing to blossom globally.

Werner Eichhorn, Skoda Auto's global sales and marketing board member, said that while the Fabia RS was canned because small-car buyers found it too expensive, the RS brand still has room to grow.

"The Kodiaq is a good looking car, so the Sportline will definitely come through and then we have to find out whether in that sector [RS] could also be possible," he told us at the recent Paris motor show.

"It makes sense right now to analyse what is needed in the market," said Skoda's sales and marketing global boss, who added that development of an upgraded Octavia RS, based on the facelifted Octavia revealed recently, was now under way.

Tipped to make its debut at the 2017 Geneva motor show next March, the updated Octavia RS will launch in Australia around August 2017 and motoring.com.au understands it will pack the same powertrain as limited-edition Octavia RS 230 launched in Australia this week.

Skoda Octavia RS badge

That means an upgrade from 162kW to 169kW is on the cards, and potentially the 230's electro-mechanical limited-slip differential too.

"The next evolution of the Octavia is due next year," Irmer confirmed this week.

"I don't want to call it a facelift because it’s a bit more than that, but at the end of the day it's got quite a bit of new technology.

"The regular range will continue and the RS 230 gives you a hint of what the engine will look like in the next-generation RS, then we'll see whether we have an upgraded version on top of that as well."

Skoda's sporty RS sub-brand will become an increasingly important part of the company and with more models on the way it will give the Czech brand increased visibility and spice in the marketplace.

"When we have the opportunity to get performance versions of the cars for our market, we'll always put our hand up to get it done," concluded Irmer.

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