On paper, the Skoda Octavia RS is a bigger version of the Golf GTI. It has the same platform (although substantially enlarged), and the same 2-liter turbocharged engine. However, the Czechs don't use some high-end components to save you money.
In one particular area, the Octavia RS has been falling behind its hot hatch rivals, and that is the aural experience. Unless you're really giving it the beans, the Octavia just doesn't sound like it's being powered by a 220 horsepower 2-liter turbo engine.
Out of all the custom exhaust systems we've seen, the one made by Remus is our favorite. These German tuners have been in the business since the days of the Mk1 Octavia, and it shows in the quality of their work.
It consists of the following parts: 806015 0500LR - RACING stainless steel L&R sports exhaust system, Y-connection tube, two integrated electrical valves and remote control module.
The good news is that because the tips are fake pieces of trim attached to the bumper, the Remus system fits without body modifications.
When dyno testing was carried out, Remus found the stock 232,4 HP output was increased slightly, to 239.6 HP. That doesn't sound like a good reason to spend €1,190 on a custom exhaust, but just wait until you listen to this baby.
The fully aural experience is only unleashed when you press a button and butterfly valves open up in the custom pipes. A cavalcade of popping sounds tricks you thinking this Octavia is a rally car. The neighbors won't like it very much, but it's hard to ostracize somebody that drives a Skoda wagon.
Launched in 2013, the Octavia RS is available in both sedan and wagon body styles. The 2.0 TSI engine is joined by the 2.0 TDI alternative, a diesel with 184 PS and noticeably improved fuel consumption. Even 4x4 is now available, so Skoda has a versatile range of vehicles.
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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