Skoda will officially unveil the next-generation Octavia RS a few days from now at the Geneva Motor Show and the big news is the sporty compact model will gain a plug-in hybrid powertrain for the first time.
Named the Octavia RS iV, it was spotted recently by our spy photographers with minimal camouflage. The only covered parts are the lower sides of the front bumper, while stickers were also applied to the tailgate.
Compared to regular Octavia models, the new RS sports a redesigned front bumper, boasting a larger lower grille and redesigned fog lamps. It also features a thin deck lid spoiler, as well as a restyled rear bumper with a subtle diffuser and rectangular tailpipe trims. Additionally, one can spot a set of beefier brakes with red calipers and Y-spoke wheels on this particular prototype.
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The best indication that we are indeed looking at the plug-in hybrid version of the Octavia RS is the charging port located on the front left quarter panel. The Octavia RS iV will be powered by a 1.4-liter petrol engine and an electric motor with a total system output of 245 PS (242 HP / 180 kW). The power will reportedly be delivered to the front wheels through a six-speed DSG automatic transmission.
Look for the Octavia RS iV in European dealerships starting this June. Two months later, the lineup is said to expand with the petrol-powered variant expected to pack a 245 PS (242 HP / 180 kW) 2.0-liter TSI matched to a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic transmission.
The Octavia RS family will reportedly be completed by a diesel version, expected at around the same time as the petrol model with a 200 PS (197 HP / 147 kW) 2.0-liter TDI hooked to a 7-speed DSG.