Skoda Octavia RS iV has an electric-only range of 60 km and is expected to be priced around Rs. 41 lakh (ex-showroom) upon launch
Skoda’s India division is reportedly working on introducing its first-ever plug-in hybrid model, the Octavia RS iV in the domestic market and it will likely go on sale by the middle of next year. Back in 2020, the Czech Republican auto major launched the Octavia RS iV to celebrate twenty years of presence of the performance-based RS brand.
The Skoda Octavia RS iV is based on the fourth-generation Octavia and it comes equipped with a hybrid engine. It will be brought into the country via CBU (Completely Built-Up) unit, taking advantage of the relaxation in homologation regulations as the central government allows for up to 2,500 passenger cars to be imported per year.
Compared to the regular Octavia, the RS iV comes with a host of updates inside and out to differentiate itself. Up front, it features a blackened front grille, sporty fog lamp housings, an aggressive-looking bumper, air inlet done up in black colour and a glossy black skid plate. Other highlights are a black rear skid plate, contrast RS badges, black painted Outside Rear View Mirrors, new wheels, etc.
The Octavia RS iV will be sportier than the standard Octavia and on the inside, it gets a number of unique touches as well. It gains a three-spoke multifunctional steering wheel, contrast red inserts, integrated headrests on the driver and co-passenger seats and improved bolstering. It will also feature a large touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Skoda will also offer a 10.25-inch digital instrument console with the Octavia RS iV. As for the performance, a 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine capable of 150 hp works in concert with an electric motor producing 116 hp. The combined power output stands at 245 hp while the peak torque is rated at 400 Nm (30 Nm more than the previous model).
The Li-ion battery pack is mounted under the floor and the 13 kWh unit enables an electric-only range of 60 km. The performance-based sedan is claimed to accelerate from zero to 100 kmph in 7.3 seconds before topping out 225 kmph (0.7 s slower with 25 kmph lower top speed compared to the old RS245). It is also heavier due to the large size of the battery.