Skoda has taken the wraps off a fully-loaded special edition of its Octavia RS, called the vRS Challenge. Extra kit – over the standard model – is mostly cosmetic, with the RS Challenge featuring the same 245hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that’s under the bonnet of the RS 245 DSG. The motor, which puts out 370Nm of torque, will help the Challenge hit the 100kph from standstill in around 6.6sec.
The other mechanical upgrade is the motorsport-inspired, VAQ limited-slip differential that is capable of transferring increased engine power to whichever front wheel has the most grip while cornering. The RS Challenge also comes with Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) as standard and customers can pick between a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
Visual changes can mostly be seen on the exterior and include new 19-inch black alloy wheels, a black-trimmed sports exhaust, black folding door mirrors and black RS badging.
In the cabin, the RS Challenge is fitted with electronically adjustable figure-hugging Alcantara seats that come with a heating function for the front seats. There’s also keyless entry, push-button and a trip computer with a lap timer. Equipment such as the satnav, Wi-Fi and LED interior lighting are shared with the standard RS.
There has been a relatively high demand for the Octavia RS in the Indian market, with all 500 units allocated for the market having sold out. The initial allocation of 300 units of the Octavia RS, which had launched at Rs 24.62 lakh (ex-showroom, India) in September 2017, sold out quick, after which an additional 200 units were imported. Skoda may re-introduce the car to our market in the near future, though has not yet officially said so.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Uday Singh
Suraj Viswanathan
Lenny D'sa
Saptarshi Mondal
