Revving Back to Life: Škoda Octavia RS Returns to India

In a highly anticipated move, Škoda Auto India is paving the way for the return of a legend in the motoring world—the Octavia RS. As the country prepares to welcome back this high-performance sedan, enthusiasts are already gearing up for October 6, 2025, when pre-bookings kick off exclusively through the company’s official website.

The all-new Octavia RS is slated to be available in limited quantities, making its return as a Fully-Built Unit (FBU) a cherished opportunity for the discerning car lover. With promises of unmatched driving dynamics and a bold design, the reintroduction of the Octavia RS is more than just a launch; it is a revival of an emotion that has captivated petrolheads across the globe.

The Iconic RS Badge

Representing Rally Sport, the RS badge is a testament to performance excellence and precision engineering. It emanates from Škoda’s rallying triumphs, translating motorsport success into a road-friendly marvel. Arriving first in India in 2004, carrying the honor of being the nation’s pioneer turbocharged petrol engine passenger car, the Octavia RS soon developed an almost cult-like following among automotive enthusiasts. Each new generation has consistently captured hearts, blending European engineering with the excitement and versatility desired in everyday driving.

A Word from the Brand Director

Ashish Gupta, Brand Director of Škoda Auto India, shares his enthusiasm about the Octavia RS's return: “Earlier this year, we promised that a global icon would return to India. Today, I’m proud to announce that we’ve delivered on that promise with the Octavia RS. This badge carries an unmatched legacy, one that has sparked passion among enthusiasts across the globe for over two decades. With the all-new Octavia RS launch in India, we’re not just bringing back a car. We’re bringing back an emotion. A legend that continues to define performance, aspiration, and the true spirit of driving.”

Škoda Auto's Broader Vision

Škoda Auto is maneuvering through the new era with its Next Level Škoda Strategy, as it aims to become one of Europe’s top three best-selling brands by the decade’s end. This ambition includes offering an attractive range of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV), hybrid, and Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) models that promise the best of both worlds to consumers.

Their focus extends into critical growth markets such as India, Vietnam, and the ASEAN region, with a strong product lineup consisting of 12 passenger car models like the Fabia, Scala, and the Karoq, among others. In 2024 alone, the brand delivered over 926,000 vehicles worldwide, further cementing its place within the global automotive landscape.

The Škoda Experience in India

Since 2001, Škoda Auto India has been captivating Indian buyers with its sophisticated lineup, currently offering models such as the Kylaq, Slavia, Kushaq, and Kodiaq. With an extensive presence in more than 177 cities, and over 310 touchpoints nationwide, Škoda Auto India remains a formidable player within the country’s automotive sector.

The Final Lap: What This Means

The Octavia RS’s reintroduction to the Indian market stands as a testament to Škoda Auto’s commitment to innovation and passion-driven design. While pre-bookings are limited and exclusive, the fervor surrounding this launch highlights the enduring legacy of the RS badge. As we look toward October and beyond, it becomes clear that the Octavia RS isn’t simply about owning a vehicle – it’s about embracing a storied driving experience that continues to inspire a deep-seated passion for motoring.