Next Skoda Octavia RS revealed in leaked images

Skoda recently released images of its new third-generation Octavia sedan, and now come these leaked images of the go-faster RS variant.

These low-res shots are believed to have been pilfered from an online car configurator, and they reveal all the key visual details that differentiate the RS from lesser versions of the Octavia.

Apart from the obvious RS badging on the grille, there’s a more aggressive front fascia with separate brake-cooling ducts that incorporate a horizontal strip of LED daytime-running lights.

Meanwhile, the flanks are distinguished by bespoke side sills and a beefier wheel/tyre combo with red brake calipers peeping through the five-spoke rims.

Out back sits a bootlid spoiler, and integrated into the rear diffuser is a pair of trapezoidal exhausts.

Inside, expect a raft of sporty accoutrements – such as leather-upholstered bucket seats, RS-specific gauges and a flat-bottomed steering wheel – to boost cabin ambience appreciably.

Although tech specs are yet to be confirmed, it’s likely the Octavia RS will use the essentially the same 2.0-litre turbo engine that powers the Mk7 Golf GTI.

In the latest Golf, the GTI is offered in two states of tune – a standard 162kW/350Nm version and an optional 169kW/350Nm version that comes with larger front brakes and a mechanical limited-slip differential.

Drive to the front wheels will be via the VW Group’s DSG dual-clutch transmission, making for a 0-100km/h split in what’s likely to be the high-six-second range.

The third-generation Skoda Octavia range lands here in the second half of 2013, but it’s not yet known whether the RS will be launched concurrently.

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