Skoda Octavia RS 2009 debuts in Europe

VW-owned Czech carmaker Skoda has launched the sporty RS versions of the their facelifted 2009 Octavia.

The 2009 Octavia has a new front end with redesigned lights and bumpers, and not much else new. On the other hand, the RS gets a carryover 197 hp 2.0-litre, adaptive headlight option, 18-inch wheels, lowered suspension, a mild body kit and a rear spoiler. The RS comes in sedan and station wagon body styles.

Also receiving the new front end is the Octavia Scout model, which adds nothing more to the basic Octavia wagon other than a bunch of black plastic cladding, as Skoda says, for an “off-road appearance.”

While it is unknown if the GCC-spec version of the new Octavia has debuted in the UAE (considering the lack of marketing by the local dealer), it is likely that the RS version will not hit the streets of Dubai and Abu Dhabi anytime soon.

Keep track of local pricing, specs and updates in the Skoda Octavia buyer guide.