Overview: What You Need to Know
- Octavia RS confirmed for 2025 India launch, expected by festive season.
- Packs a punch with a 265hp, 2.0L turbo-petrol engine, brought in as a CBU.
- Expected price tag of ₹50 lakh, limited units for true enthusiasts.
- Skoda puts diesel models and Kodiaq RS on hold due to policy uncertainty.
Introduction: India’s RS Fever is Back
Skoda enthusiasts, rejoice! The much-loved Octavia RS is making a grand comeback to India in 2025, and it’s already creating waves across automotive circles. After years of speculation and a sneak peek at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo earlier this year, Skoda has now officially confirmed that the fourth-generation Octavia RS is headed our way.
With its aggressive styling, track-tuned performance, and a loyal fan base that’s only grown with time, the Octavia RS promises to be more than just a car—it’s an icon reborn. And while Skoda’s other CBU plans take a backseat for now, this RS revival might just be what Indian petrolheads have been waiting for.
Octavia RS: Performance Reimagined
Under the hood, the new Octavia RS packs a powerful 265hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, the same one that powers the recently launched Volkswagen Golf GTI, which has already seen its first batch sold out in India. Whether it’s a spirited drive on winding roads or a weekend at the track, the RS has always delivered on performance, and this generation is no different.
While Skoda hasn’t announced the final price yet, sources suggest that it will be brought in as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), which means pricing could go above ₹50 lakh (ex-showroom). This may limit its audience, but for those who’ve tasted RS thrill before, it’s a premium worth paying.
A Legacy of Loyalists
India has seen the magic of the Octavia RS before. The last-gen RS 245, despite being priced at a premium, sold out all 200 units in record time. That says a lot about the cult following this badge commands in India. From tuners to track-day junkies, the RS has been the go-to performance sedan for years—and its return couldn’t be better timed.
The new RS not only carries forward this legacy but also raises the bar in terms of technology, refinement, and design, making it the perfect performance-luxury blend.
No Diesel Dreams – For Now
While the RS launch is exciting, there’s a flip side. Skoda had earlier hinted at reintroducing diesel engines in India, especially with the Superb and Octavia. The plan even included bringing the Kodiaq RS, but as per Skoda’s new Brand Director, Ashish Gupta, these plans are now on hold.
The reason? Geopolitical uncertainties and unclear Free Trade Agreements (FTA), which make long-term product planning difficult.
Focus on What Works: Kylaq, Kushaq, and Slavia
Instead of spreading itself thin, Skoda is doubling down on its local stars. The recently launched Kylaq compact SUV is already doing wonders for the brand with average monthly sales of 5,000 units. Add to that the upcoming updates (facelifts) for the Kushaq and Slavia, and Skoda’s India game plan seems sharp and focused.
Here’s a quick comparison of Skoda’s current and upcoming models in India:
| Model | Fuel Type | Segment | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Octavia RS | Petrol (CBU) | Performance Sedan | Launch Confirmed – 2025 |
| Kylaq | Petrol | Compact SUV | Launched – Selling Strong |
| Kodiaq RS | Diesel (CBU) | Performance SUV | Launch on Hold |
| Superb (Diesel) | Diesel (CBU) | Executive Sedan | Launch on Hold |
| Kushaq/Slavia | Petrol | SUV/Sedan | Lifecycle Updates Incoming |
Conclusion: The RS Badge Still Has Its Bite
The return of the Skoda Octavia RS is a clear signal that performance cars still have a place in India’s evolving market. While high pricing due to CBU import may limit the audience, the RS will continue to be a halo car—a symbol of Skoda’s engineering prowess and emotional connect with driving enthusiasts.
Though we’ll miss the diesel-powered models and the Kodiaq RS for now, Skoda’s sharp focus on volume drivers like the Kylaq ensures a balanced portfolio with something for everyone.
So, if you’ve been waiting for a sedan that blends thrill, tech, and European charm—the Octavia RS in 2025 might just be your next dream machine.