Speed and everyday practicality. How experts tune RS models

Škoda’s RS models draw on the brand’s rich motorsport heritage. They deliver dynamic driving pleasure and impressive performance while losing none of the everyday practicality that has always been a hallmark of Mladá Boleslav brand's cars.

The RS models combine high performance, engaging driving dynamics, striking design with signature black details, and an extensive range of equipment. This unique balance places them at the top of their respective model ranges. In doing so, Škoda not only pays tribute to its long-standing tradition in motorsport but also provides comfortable and versatile companions for daily use.

“Our customers drive them every day, so we make them universally usable. At the same time, they deliver a truly enjoyable driving experience,” explains Petr Šulc from Škoda Auto’s Technical Development department. This balance is primarily achieved through precisely tuned chassis systems that combine agility with ride comfort. “Stiff does not automatically mean sporty. A car can be sporty if it is well-balanced, even if it absorbs road imperfections effectively,” adds Šulc.

Precision-tuned chassis

Among Škoda models, RS versions feature the most advanced chassis technology. Compared to standard models, the suspension is typically lowered by 15 mm and geometry is adjusted for improved grip in corners, stability, and precision at higher speeds.

RS models also offer advanced adaptive suspension solutions. The Octavia RS and Enyaq RS (including the Enyaq Coupé RS) can be equipped with DCC, while the Elroq RS features it as standard and the Kodiaq RS introduces the enhanced DCC+ system. Unlike conventional DCC dampers with a single control valve, DCC+ uses two. One managing compression and the other rebound. This setup not only minimizes body roll, but also better controls wheel rebound over uneven surfaces. Adaptive chassis systems enable drivers to switch between several driving modes (typically Normal, Comfort, Sport, and Individual). In Individual mode, suspension stiffness can be fine-tuned across 15 levels.

Top-of-the-range powertrains

The finely tuned chassis is perfectly matched to both relaxed cruising and dynamic driving, supported by powerful engines, robust braking systems, and progressive steering. The Octavia RS and Kodiaq RS, powered by combustion engines, are equipped with Škoda’s most powerful petrol engine to date – the 2.0 TSI delivering an output of 195 kW.

“In the fourth generation of the EA888 engine, a redesigned piston crown and a new crankshaft seal reduce internal friction. The engine also features acoustic damping for the crankcase and additional refinements that further enhance efficiency,” explains Šulc. Both models pair the engine with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission. The Octavia RS uses front-wheel drive with an electronically controlled VAQ limited-slip differential – a technology derived from motorsport – while the Kodiaq RS features all-wheel drive with an electrohydraulic multi-plate clutch. The control unit can distribute up to 100% of power to the rear axle when required.

Excellent dynamics

The electric RS models – Enyaq RS and Elroq RS – also feature all-wheel drive, this time via dual-motor setups, one for each axle. With a system output of 250 kW, they are currently the fastest-accelerating series-production Škoda cars, sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds. By comparison, the Octavia RS reaches 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds (liftback) or 6.5 seconds (estate), while the Kodiaq RS completes the sprint in 6.3 seconds.