Despite the delay in importing models like the Superb diesel, Octavia diesel, and Kodiaq RS, there’s exciting news for enthusiasts: Skoda is set to launch the Octavia RS in India this year. Ashish Gupta, the new brand director for Skoda India, confidently stated in an interview with Autocar India that “The Octavia RS is something that we will definitely bring to India this year.” While he didn’t provide an exact date, it’s likely we can expect the new Octavia RS to hit Indian roads by the festive season.
This model will arrive as a Completely Built Unit (CBU) and boasts an impressive 265 hp 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine. Although plans for other CBU models, including diesel variants, are temporarily on hold, the arrival of the Octavia RS is a strong indicator of Skoda’s commitment to delivering thrilling performance cars to Indian customers.
Skoda Octavia RS to be brought as a CBU
Get ready for the highly anticipated launch of the Octavia RS, which is expected to arrive with a price tag surpassing Rs 50 lakh. After making waves at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo in January, this impressive model will be available as a full import this year, although supply may be limited. The Octavia has gathered a dedicated fan base in India, especially in its RS variant, making this release a true must-have for enthusiasts. The last batch of 200 units of the previous-gen Octavia RS 245 flew off the shelves despite their high price.
The fourth-generation Octavia RS boasts an exhilarating 265 hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine—the same powerhouse found in the newly launched Volkswagen Golf GTI. We’ve had the chance to put this new model through its paces in Croatia on both road and track (check our full review here). However, since it’s being imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), expect pricing to reflect that premium quality—we anticipate it will start at over Rs 50 lakh (ex-showroom). This positions it squarely alongside competitors like the VW Golf GTI, making it an essential addition to any performance car enthusiast’s garage.
Skoda Kodiaq RS, Superb India launch put on hold
The prospect of Skoda launching diesel models in the near future seems unlikely. While the recent confirmation of the Octavia RS is indeed positive news, there were plans to introduce other popular models like the Kodiaq RS, Superb, and even the standard Octavia to India. In fact, Skoda had hinted at potentially reintroducing diesel with the Superb and considering local assembly for the Octavia. However, these ambitions are currently on hold. Gupta attributes this pause to ongoing uncertainties surrounding Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations and various geopolitical factors.
Gupta explains, “With discussions around FTA agreements and evolving policies along with tariffs, uncertainty looms large over the market. Even if we’re eager to establish a plan for our upcoming product lineup, there are simply too many variables at play that make every strategy perilous right now. We do have a vision for which cars we believe should enter India; nonetheless, these unpredictable elements hinder our decision-making process.”
While the Octavia RS will certainly be a flagship model and help build Skoda’s brand reputation, the company’s main focus will be on its locally produced vehicles, particularly the Kylaq. This compact SUV has dramatically improved Skoda’s fortunes in India, boasting impressive average sales of 5,000 units per month. Additionally, there are exciting lifecycle updates coming for both the Kushaq and Slavia models. Skoda is also committed to expanding its dealer network and customer interactions to tap into a broader market.
“We absolutely want to prioritize models from our global lineup, but we plan to do it strategically. We’re not looking to overwhelm ourselves or the market with too many options at once. Our priority right now is clearly defined: it’s all about the Kylaq and our existing portfolio. We aim for a consistent offering that’s always available rather than spreading ourselves thin with too many inconsistent choices,” Gupta emphasized. After launching the Kylaq, Skoda achieved an impressive jump to seventh place in India’s automotive market while maintaining high standards of quality in their offerings.