Skoda has confirmed that the eagerly awaited Octavia RS will return to India this year. Ashish Gupta, the new Brand Director for Skoda Auto India, shared this news in an interview with Autocar India. While there’s no exact launch date yet, we can expect it around the festive season of 2025.
For Indian driving enthusiasts and Octavia fans, this is exciting news. The last-generation Octavia RS 245 sold out quickly, despite its high price, showing the RS brand’s strength in India.
Brought as a CBU, Priced Above ₹50 Lakh
The 2025 Skoda Octavia RS will be imported as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) unit. This means it won’t be locally assembled, leading to higher taxes and duties. The expected price is above ₹50 lakh (ex-showroom), similar to performance cars like the Volkswagen Golf GTI, which has the same powertrain.
Even at this price, the Octavia RS is likely to draw interest from driving enthusiasts and loyal Skoda fans. Skoda may limit the number of units for India, making it a niche but desirable choice.
Power and Performance: What’s Under the Hood?
The 2025 Skoda Octavia RS features a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that delivers 265hp. This is the same engine found in the latest Volkswagen Golf GTI. The car promises thrilling performance on both road and track. International reviews have praised this new-gen RS for its balanced mix of power, handling, and everyday usability.
With its turbocharged engine and sporty tuning, the Octavia RS continues its performance sedan legacy in India. It will be a solid upgrade for fans of the older RS 245 and RS 230 models.
Limited Imports, Strong Brand Following
This isn’t Skoda’s first time offering the RS badge in India. The brand previously sold limited units of the Octavia RS, all of which were well-received. The 200 units of the Octavia RS 245 sold quickly to performance car fans, even at a premium price. This strong following has encouraged Skoda to bring back the RS in 2025.
Though the new Octavia RS will be imported, it remains a key “halo” model for Skoda in India. It highlights the brand’s ability to deliver sporty, high-performance cars and keeps the RS badge alive in one of Skoda’s most loyal markets.
What About the Superb and Kodiaq RS?
While the Octavia RS launch is confirmed, other models like the Kodiaq RS and new Superb are on hold. Gupta explained that this is due to uncertainties around Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), tariffs, and global economic factors. Skoda had considered reintroducing diesel options and local assembly for the Octavia, but those plans are currently paused.
Focus Remains on Core Models: Kylaq, Kushaq & Slavia
Despite the excitement around the Octavia RS, Skoda’s main focus is on its locally produced models. The recently launched Skoda Kylaq compact SUV has been a game changer, averaging 5,000 monthly sales and helping Skoda achieve its highest-ever monthly sales of 7,422 units in March 2025.
Updates for the Kushaq and Slavia are also planned. Skoda is investing heavily in expanding its dealer network and service reach across India, which will support growth for its core volume-driven models.
Final Thoughts
The return of the Octavia RS is great news for Indian car enthusiasts. Despite its premium price due to CBU status, the performance, legacy, and driving excitement make it an attractive choice. Skoda’s decision to bring it back shows there is still room for enthusiast-driven cars in the market.
If you’ve been waiting for a practical yet powerful performance sedan, keep an eye on the 2025 Skoda Octavia RS—it’s making a comeback, and it’s ready to impress.