Skoda is gearing up to reintroduce excitement into India’s premium sedan market with the Octavia RS iV plug-in hybrid, which is expected to launch in September 2025. This marks the return of the Octavia RS badge to India after a long wait, but this time in an electrified avatar. Globally, the RS iV has been a success, combining sporty performance with the efficiency of hybrid technology.
Launch Timeline and Availability
The Skoda Octavia RS iV is scheduled for launch in India in late September 2025, with deliveries expected to begin in October 2025. Bookings will open across Skoda dealerships and online platforms shortly after the official reveal.
Exterior Design and Styling
The RS iV stays true to the sporty RS character while incorporating subtle hybrid-specific touches:
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Aggressive Front Bumper: Wider air intakes with gloss black inserts.
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LED Matrix Headlamps: With signature RS detailing.
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Alloy Wheels: 18-inch diamond-cut alloys standard, 19-inch optional.
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RS Badge: On the grille, boot, and brake calipers.
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Aerodynamic Enhancements: Rear diffuser and subtle boot spoiler.
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Color Options: Iconic RS Red, Steel Grey, and new Hybrid Blue.
These updates ensure the Octavia RS iV stands out as a performance-oriented sedan with eco-friendly credentials.
Engine and Performance
The Octavia RS iV is powered by a 1.4-litre TSI turbocharged petrol engine paired with an 85 kW electric motor, making it a true plug-in hybrid.
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Combined Power Output: 245 hp.
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Torque: Around 400 Nm.
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Transmission: 6-speed DSG automatic.
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0–100 km/h: In just 7.3 seconds.
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Top Speed: Around 225 km/h.
This setup balances thrilling performance with efficiency, making it suitable for both enthusiasts and eco-conscious buyers.
Battery, Range, and Efficiency
The RS iV comes with a 13 kWh lithium-ion battery pack:
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Electric-Only Range: Around 60 km (WLTP cycle), ideal for daily city commutes.
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Hybrid Mode: Automatically switches between petrol and electric power for efficiency.
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Charging:
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AC charging: 3.5 hours with a wall box.
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Standard charger: Around 6 hours.
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This ensures the RS iV can operate as an EV for short trips while retaining petrol backup for longer drives.
Features and Technology
The Octavia RS iV comes loaded with modern features:
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10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit: RS-specific graphics and hybrid readouts.
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10-inch Infotainment System: With wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
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Sports Seats: Alcantara upholstery with RS stitching.
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Three-Zone Climate Control: For passenger comfort.
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Drive Modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual.
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Ambient Lighting: Customizable cabin moods.
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RS Steering Wheel: Flat-bottom design with paddle shifters.
These features combine sporty driving with everyday convenience.
Safety Features
The RS iV also includes a strong list of safety technologies:
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Six Airbags Standard.
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Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
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Adaptive Cruise Control.
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Lane Keep Assist.
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Park Assist with Sensors and Camera.
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ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts.
Together, these features make it one of the safest sedans in its class.
Expected Price in India
The Skoda Octavia RS iV is expected to be priced between ₹42 lakh and ₹45 lakh (ex-showroom) in India. While significantly higher than the old petrol-only RS, the added hybrid technology and global demand for electrified models justify the premium.
Rivals and Competition
The Octavia RS iV will compete with:
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BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe – More premium badge but petrol-only.
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Mercedes-Benz A-Class Limousine – Luxury rival without hybrid tech.
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Toyota Camry Hybrid – Hybrid competitor, though less sporty.
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Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus – Affordable turbo-petrol alternative.
The Octavia RS iV aims to sit in the sweet spot between performance sedans and eco-friendly hybrids.
Who Should Buy the Octavia RS iV?
The RS iV is perfect for:
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Performance Enthusiasts: Looking for sporty driving with hybrid efficiency.
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Eco-Conscious Buyers: Wanting to reduce emissions without losing petrol backup.
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Premium Sedan Buyers: Wanting something different from German luxury sedans.
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Skoda Loyalists: Longtime fans of the RS badge awaiting its return.
Verdict: Can the RS iV Reignite the RS Legacy in India?
The Skoda Octavia RS iV brings back the legendary RS badge in a modern avatar. With 245 hp performance, sporty styling, hybrid efficiency, and premium features, it has the potential to reignite excitement in India’s sedan market. If priced aggressively, the RS iV could attract both enthusiasts and environment-conscious buyers, making it one of the most unique launches of 2025.
FAQs
When will the Skoda Octavia RS iV launch in India?
It is expected to launch in late September 2025, with deliveries starting in October.
What engine does the RS iV use?
It combines a 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine with an electric motor, producing 245 hp.
What is the electric range of the RS iV?
It can drive around 60 km in pure EV mode.
What is the expected price in India?
It is expected to cost between ₹42 lakh and ₹45 lakh (ex-showroom).
Who are its main rivals?
It will compete with the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, Mercedes A-Class Limousine, Toyota Camry Hybrid, and Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus.