India-bound 2017 Skoda Octavia RS (facelift) envisioned

Could launch sometime next year.

Skoda took the wraps off the 2017 Skoda Octavia (facelift) this week, and based on that, a speculative rendering from X-Tomi Design previews the 2017 Skoda Octavia RS (facelift) expected to arrive in 2017. While some European reports cast doubts on the future of the vRS, the general media perception is that it is here to stay.

The 2017 Skoda Octavia RS seen in the rendering incorporates the new quad-headlight setup and updated radiator grille design. While the former is a major turn-off for many, the big wheels and low profile tyres in the rendering are the things one would hope to see on the actual facelift. The rear-end should feature tweaked tail lights and bigger spoiler on the new model.

Like the exterior, the interior changes should also mimic the standard variant. The standard variant saw changes to the instrument cluster, upgradation of the infotainment systems and availability of comfort and convenience features like customizable key (with vehicle settings memory), heated steering wheel and two folding tables.

Also See: Skoda Polar (Skoda Fabia-class SUV) imagined

The current Skoda Octavia RS is available with 135 kW (180.97 hp) 2.0-litre TDI diesel, 162 kW (217.16 hp) 2.0-litre TSI petrol and 169 kW (226.54 hp) 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine options and 6-speed manual and 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission choices. An all-wheel drive system is available as well. These options should remain unchanged, but there could be some revisions to the engines. Also, a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission option could be introduced.

The Octavia RS has been confirmed for India next year, but it remains to be seen if it carries any added performance over the standard car.

[Image Source: X-Tomi Design]