Skoda had several smaller debuts at the 2015 IAA that were overshadowed by the Bentayga and all-new Tiguan. However, the expansion of the Octavia RS model rang very exciting for us hot hatch fans.
Yes, we know the Octavia doesn't look like a Golf GTI, but it's technically a hatchback and packs plenty of practicality. Power is not a problem either, as the new RS 230 model brings the same amount of oomph as a Golf GTI with the Performance Pack
That's 230 PS from a 2-liter engine, just enough o get you to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 250 km/h. On paper, the Ford Focus ST Wagon is more powerful, but tests have shown the official Skoda numbers are underrating the car.
Skodas are very popular with pensioners that appreciate the low fuel consumption of TDI engines. However, this 64-year old can easily handle a 230 horsepower engine. That's because Hans-Joachim 'Strietzel' Stuck has seen more action than most racing drivers, winning Le Mans two times and also participating in F1.
Stuck is excited about the new power Octavia: “A fantastic day with a fantastic car. Skoda has injected a double dose of dynamism into their sportiest model.”
He's not taking things easy either. On a perfect sunny day, the 64YO racer attacks every corner with anger to find out how the Octavia uses its brakes to eliminate understeer. In a couple of fast-paced curves, he even manages to turn the RS into a tripod.
The design improvements also impress him, most notably the black design elements and 19-inch alloy wheels, along with leather sport seats and a sports steering wheel. The partially redeveloped exhaust system ensures a powerful sound. It's the first time we've seen the 230 hp Octavia in action and it sounds that 10% better than its previous version.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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