2017 Skoda Octavia RS245 revealed ahead of Geneva

Skoda has unveiled the 180kW Octavia RS245 – the model's most powerful variant yet – ahead of its public debut at Geneva motor show in March.

Aside from output changes, the new mid-size sedan and wagon variant will also include minor styling revisions to both the exterior and cabin, as well as the addition of various driver assistance technologies and a limited-slip differential (LSD).

The most dynamic and technologically advanced Octavia to date will see its 180kW of power and 370Nm of torque produced by a carry-over 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine from the model's former flagship variant.

Increases of 11kW and 20Nm over the recently updated donor RS – which is scheduled to land Down Under in August – sees the RS245 sprint to triple figures in 6.6 and 6.7 seconds for the sedan and wagon body-styles, respectively, whilst both share an electronically limited 250km/h top speed.

Skoda Australia general manager of corporate communications Paul Pottinger said the likelihood of the RS245 being offered Down Under is dependent on the availability of a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission for the Australian market, ahead of its potential fourth quarter local debut this year.

"While we settled for manual only in the limited edition RS230, which we released late last year as something of toe in the water exercise, we’d need the option of an auto this time to make the variant viable," he said.

The electronic VAQ LSD featured in the RS245 allows for greater traction for the front tyres when powering out of corners.

The upgraded flagship Octavia variant will be offered overseas with the choice of either an automatic transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox.

The electronic VAQ LSD featured in the RS245 allows for greater traction for the front tyres when powering out of corners, increasing real-world performance.

Additionally, Performance Mode Select with Performance Sound Generator lets the driver adjust the engine, chassis and suspension tune, which can also be enhanced with the optional dynamic chassis control.

The RS245's chassis sits 19mm lower than a standard Octavia's, in addition to a 38mm wider rear track when compared to the preceding RS230.

When side-by-side with its updated RS little brother, the RS245 sports minimal external changes as the two share a black upper grille, honeycomb-styled lower air intake mesh and restyled LED headlight cluster, but the range-topper boasts 19-inch alloy wheels as standard.

The all-new Skoda Connect multimedia system from the updated Octavia range will also be inside the RS245.

Alcantara sports seats embroidered with RS logos up-front, branded front door sills, aluminium-finish pedals, multifunctional sports steering wheel with heating function and paddle shifters for DSG variants, and ambient lighting round off the internal revisions.

The all-new Skoda Connect multimedia system from the updated Octavia range will also be inside the RS245, offering drivers up-to-date information on driver assistance systems and infotainment via a 9.2-inch touchscreen.

The Octavia RS245's suite of driver assistance systems includes adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind spot detection, predictive pedestrian protection, rear cross traffic alert, and crew protect assist which closes the sunroof and windows when an impending collision is detected.

Another technology called trailer assist – which offers steering assistance when reversing a trailer –  will not be offered Down Under due to its non-compliance with Australian Design Rules (ADR) regulations.

Full details on the Skoda Octavia RS245 will be unveiled at the Geneva motor show, which starts on March 7.

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