Here’s a write-up on the upcoming Skoda Octavia RS move in India — its booking opening, launch plan, and what we know so far:
Skoda Octavia RS — The Comeback & Booking Launch
Skoda Auto India is reviving the Octavia RS nameplate in India after a gap, and has confirmed that bookings (pre-orders) for the model will open on October 6, 2025. The booking window will be hosted via Skoda’s official website, rather than through traditional dealer networks.
Skoda will limit the initial allocation to just 100 units, making the Octavia RS quite exclusive in India’s market. The price reveal is slated for October 17, 2025, and deliveries are expected to commence on November 6, 2025.
Background & Strategy
The return of the Octavia RS marks the reintroduction of the Octavia line (in performance avatar) in India, after the regular Octavia model was withdrawn around 2023. Skoda intends to import the RS as a Completely Built Unit (CBU) under India’s GSR 870 rule, which permits limited imports (typically up to 2,500 units) without requiring full homologation. Under this route, the model has to be a UK- or Japan-spec version — in this case, the UK-spec version made in the Czech Republic.
Because Skoda is adhering to the standard UK-spec version, certain features typical in other markets might be omitted in the Indian variant if they weren’t part of that spec. For example, Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) will not be offered in India. Also, the variant is expected to come fully loaded (single variant) without options to add or remove features.
Technicals, Features & Expected Price
Powertrain & Performance
The India-spec Octavia RS is expected to carry over the 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine, tuned to deliver around 261 bhp and 370 Nm of torque. Power will be managed via a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission, driving the front wheels. Reported 0–100 km/h timing is about 6.4 seconds, with a claimed top speed of 250 km/h.
One point: since the UK-spec car (as imported) lacks DCC in its basic spec, that system is not expected in the Indian version either.
Features & Design
The Octavia RS will be based on the facelifted fourth-generation Octavia body. Some confirmed or strongly expected features include:
- A sporty, blacked-out aesthetic (RS styling cues).
- 19-inch ‘Elias’ anthracite wheels (non-changeable).
- Absence of a sunroof in the Indian model.
- An all-black interior treatment, combining suede/alcantara and leather materials.
- A 12.9-inch central infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, head-up display, 360° cameras, and other advanced equipment.
Colours are expected to be restricted to a select few, such as Mamba Green, Race Blue, Velvet Red, Magic Black, and Candy White.
Pricing Expectations
Skoda has not officially confirmed the price yet (to be announced October 17), but industry expectations place the ex-showroom price in India in the ₹50–55 lakh range. Some earlier speculative estimates (less recent) suggested lower numbers (e.g., ~₹45 lakh), but these are likely outdated given import costs, taxes, and exclusivity.
Given its performance orientation, exclusivity, and halo-car status for Skoda India, many expect it to occupy a premium territory without many direct rivals.
What Makes This Important / Risk & Considerations
- Halo effect: Though volume will be minimal, the Octavia RS helps Skoda strengthen brand perception in India, especially among enthusiasts and performance-oriented buyers.
- Limited supply: With just 100 units allocated initially, demand may exceed supply, pushing waiting lists and potential premium markups.
- Import & tax costs: As a CBU import, the Octavia RS will come with high duties, making it more expensive.
- Spec compromises: Because Skoda is sticking with the UK-spec variant, certain optional features (like DCC) won’t be available in India, which might disappoint buyers expecting full customizability.
- No direct competitor: In performance sedan territory at this price, there are few true rivals in India, giving the Octavia RS a niche but potentially commanding position.