2017 Skoda Octavia Combi RS 2.0L TDI 6AT FWD (184 HP)

Vehicle Overview

The Czech automaker Skoda introduced the third generation of the Octavia in 2012 and delayed the facelift until 2017, and along with the rest of the range, it upgraded the RS Combi (station wagon) version as well.

Being under Volkswagen’s umbrella was a good thing for the East-European car manufacturer. It could benefit from advanced technologies and from punchy engines. Even though this version was way more expensive than the base Octavia model, it was a sought-after vehicle. In addition, the station wagon RS proved to be an excellent mix between a sporty vehicle and a family car.

In the RS trim, the medium-sized Czech vehicle featured a more aggressive front fascia with a black grille at the front. Its headlights stirred many talks since they resembled those installed on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class from the same era. But the angular style was typical for the Czech brand, a nation well-represented in cubist-style design. From its profile, the long roof version featured blackened B- and C-pillars and a chromed trim surrounding the windows’ area. Finally, at the back, the racked-forward tailgate was adorned at the top with a roof spoiler, while a dual exhaust system peaked underneath the rear bumper.

Inside, the RS featured specific high-bolstered seats with integrated headrests and upholstered in a leather/fabric combination as standard or with Alcantara as an option. The polished aluminum pedals were more visible thanks to the standard interior ambient lighting. At the back, the split-folding benchseat could expand the trunk space.

Under the hood, the Octavia RS had a choice of diesel and gasoline engines. While the sportiest was the 230 hp gasoline version (10 hp more than the non-facelifted version), the 184 TDI was the most fuel-efficient.