Superb and Kodiaq get new 2-litre TSI engine making 187bhp and 320Nm
Rapid gets new 1-litre TSI engine making 108bhp
Karoq gets both the 1.5-litre TSI engines making 148bhp
Kodiaq, Superb and Rapid set for April launch
Skoda displayed the Vision IN concept, the brand’s first MQB A0-IN platform-based compact SUV at its stall at the Auto Expo 2020. Powered by a 1.5-litre TSI engine making 148bhp and 250Nm, the Vision IN will go up against the likes of the Kia Seltos and Hyundai Creta when it goes into production in early 2021, and going by its specs on paper, it will definitely raise the benchmark with its combo of luxurious interiors and spirited performance.
However, all eyes were on the Vision IN’s numerous production-ready brethren, namely the updated Superb, Kodiaq and Rapid, the Octavia RS 245 and the all-new Karoq. Let’s first address the elephant in the room.
The Skoda Octavia RS has already had three generations in India (including the Laura), and has almost a cult following. The previous iteration made 227bhp from its 2-litre turbo-petrol motor, and Skoda has now upped the stakes, managing to squeeze out 15bhp more, bringing the figure to 242bhp! However, the ’RS 245 will be limited to only 200 units, so you better have your chequebook ready when Skoda announces the launch date, which will be very very soon.
Next, we move on to the Superb, which receives an update for 2020. And more than a few cosmetic nips and tucks, the Superb, now in its Sportline FL trim, gets a 2-litre TSI, making 187bhp and 320Nm, The Superb shares its engine with the updated Kodiaq as well. On to the Rapid, which, despite getting an engine downsize (from 1.5-litre to 1-litre), still gets near-identical power figures. Skoda also showcased the India-spec Karoq, which will get the MQB IN-A0 1.5-litre TSI (which it will share with the Vision IN and Volkswagen Taigun) making 148bhp.
Lastly, with 2020 being the 125th anniversary for the brand, Skoda also displayed a 1948 Superb OHV. This particular model had the 3.1-litre OHV engine, and coachwork manufactured by the Skoda plant in Kvasiny, Czech Republic.