We test the Škoda RS Range: a perfect estate, an amazing 4x4 and a sporty electric SUV

Škoda has been growing a lot in recent years, offering models with very good value for money and a catalogue that covers every segment. The brand has undergone a change in its corporate image, and this is reflected in models such as the Kodiaq or the Superb, in the redesign of its logo and even in its new range of colours, which, by the way, is amazing.

Its entire dealership network is also beginning to change to adapt to this new corporate range. 60% of Škoda dealerships already have an RS “corner” where an RS model will always be on display: the Kodiaq RS, the Octavia RS, or its latest addition to the RS range, the Enyaq IV RS.

Škoda’s RS range

Škoda has always been a sign of good quality and good features at very competitive prices, but its RS range, which still relies on petrol models such as the Octavia RS or the Kodiaq RS with 4×4 traction, is amazing, and they let us see it first-hand. The people at Škoda invited us to Algete for a press conference that continued at the INTA Circuit, where we were able to test their entire RS range on 4×4 tracks with the Kodiaq RS, a handling test at the INTA Circuit with the Octavia Combi RS, and a braking test with the latest addition to the range, the ENYAQ IV RS.

Behind the wheel of the Octavia RS

Honestly, for me, it’s the jewel in the crown. It’s amazing how a compact car from the B-segment can have the features and finishes of the Octavia RS. That said, I also had the chance to try the Octavia Combi RS, and I’d stick with the regular one. Although they don’t differ much in features, if you want to have fun and enjoy driving, don’t buy the Combi version. It measures 4.7 m in length and, with such a long rear end, it doesn’t grip as well when exiting corners. However, if you already have children and lots of luggage, the Combi version could be a very good option for you, with its 640-litre boot: a family car that’s also sporty. Another thing that caught my attention is its ground clearance: it has a height of 142 mm, quite high compared with the segment average of around 128 mm. A very clear competitor could be the Volkswagen Golf Variant or the Ford Focus Sportbreak.

The Octavia RS is also offered in a Combi or Saloon version, or in diesel and petrol versions. In our case, we tested the version with a 2.0 TSI petrol engine capable of delivering 245 CV of power (180 kW). The throttle response was amazing, but where the 370 Nm of torque really shows is when we activate Sport mode, although it can also play tricks by increasing consumption. It is homologated at 6.9 l/100 km, but during our route, without ever exceeding 120 km/h, we achieved a consumption of 8.5 l/100 km. Imagine if we had pushed it to top speed, which, by the way, doesn’t exceed 225 km/h, but why would you want more?

As for the interior, the Combi version is fantastic: you won’t lack space anywhere, and even with a child seat installed, the driver or front passenger can sit perfectly in the desired position on the front seats. The seats are bucket-style in the RS versions, and the dashboard finish is very good, with a mix of fabric and plastic finishes that aren’t very flashy. It has a lot of ADAS, but the most notable are the variable-assistance power steering that adjusts with speed, central locking with keyless entry or smart key, the telescopic steering wheel adjustment, and the electric heated door mirrors which, together with standard cruise control, add a touch of convenience and comfort. Safety and practicality are reinforced by the rear parking sensor, standard rain sensing, and electrically folding mirrors. With dual-zone climate control, this model demonstrates a commitment to well-being and the pleasure of driving. And its price? This wonderful version starts from 42,000€.

We test the Kodiaq RS on the 4×4 circuit

We had the chance to test the flagship SUV of the range, this time on the INTA offroad circuit. The Kodiaq RS features a 2.0 TSI 180 kW DSG RS engine, a four-cylinder petrol unit producing 245 CV with automatic gearbox, whereas before it had a 2.0 TDI of 240 CV. Its ground clearance is 187 mm, it measures 4,690 mm in length and 1,882 mm in width.

The experiences on the circuit were amazing. When you activate offroad mode, many driver-assistance systems engage: hill-start assist, i-pedal, and of course, all-wheel drive. When you’re at the top of the slope looking down, you can release the brake pedal fully, since it also has a descent assist that won’t let you exceed 30 km/h and will help you brake as you approach the ground. It’s a very good option for those seeking a practical car with fairly good offroad capabilities without losing the SUV look and all its interior capacity. Its RS version starts at a price of 55,000€, is homologated at 8 l/100 km, and carries the C emissions label.

ENYAQ IV RS, we get behind the wheel of the latest addition to the range

In this case, they have opted for total electrification: no hybrids or petrol engines, in order to proudly present their new electric SUV, with 0 g of polluting emissions.

We had the opportunity to test the ENYAQ IV RS in an acceleration and braking test, and both the throttle response and the brake pedal respond perfectly. I liked the brake pedal quite a lot because, even with practically new brake pads, it let you modulate the braking very well, slowing down progressively to whatever point you wish.

It has a battery of 82 kWh (77 kWh net), giving it a power of 341 CV (250 kW) and a consumption of 18.3 kWh. With these characteristics, its top speed only reaches 180 km/h, and you’ll wonder: why so many horsepower, then? Well, that’s what I say too, but with a weight of 2,267 kg, they had to equip this unit well to avoid unexpected surprises. The Coupé version has a range of 545 km and an amazing design. It has undergone several changes, for example in the side skirts, which now appear in body colour, while the badges and trim now feature a sporty glossy black finish. All of this is further accentuated by the exclusive presence of the “Magma Green” colour. Its equipment includes cutting-edge technologies such as app control, rear parking sensor, rain sensor, adaptive cruise control, alloy wheels, or automatic emergency braking. The RS version is available from 62,000€.

RS Range Image Gallery Skoda

Technical specifications of the cars in this article

HatchbackSkoda Octavia24 versions · from 35,200 €

Off-RoadSkoda Kodiaq16 versions · from 46,800 €