Skoda Superb RS in the works

At the launch of the Skoda Slavia Monte Carlo, Skoda India Brand Director Petr Janeba confirmed that Skoda is developing a Superb RS. This marks the first time the Superb will receive the RS treatment. While it is currently offered only as a CBU in India, with no plans for the next-gen Superb to be assembled locally, the arrival of an RS variant is exciting news for Skoda enthusiasts worldwide.

The Superb RS is likely to be powered by the same 2-litre TSI engine found in the fourth-generation Octavia RS, though we expect a power increase to set it apart from the recently launched Sportline variant of the Superb in Europe. The Sportline features the Octavia RS engine, which produces 261bhp and 370Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed DSG gearbox. In addition to the TSI engine, the Sportline sits 15mm lower and offers the option of 19-inch wheels. The Superb RS is expected to adopt similar RS styling cues, including RS-specific alloy wheels, a distinctive grille and diffusers, along with sportier seats and cabin materials.

The second-generation Superb, re-launched in India, carried a surprising price tag of Rs 54 lakh due to being available only as a CBU. Given the low sales volume of this premium sedan, it doesn’t make financial sense for the company to assemble it at their Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad) facility. When the third-generation Superb arrives, it will also be introduced as a CBU, with the Kodiaq taking precedence as Skoda’s premium CKD offering. Meanwhile, at the other end of the spectrum, the Skoda Kylaq compact SUV is just months away from launch, aiming to boost Skoda’s numbers and market share in a highly competitive segment.