Skoda has lifted the veils off its Vision RS concept at the Paris Auto Show during a preview event that also showcased the new Kodiaq RS.
The compact study previews both the styling language of future RS models as well as one of those models from the compact class — rumored to be a larger successor to the current Rapid. The five-door hatchback concept is 4,356-mm long, 1,431-mm high, 1,810-mm wide, and has a 2,650-mm wheelbase.
It’s a practical car with a 430-liter boot and space for four passengers — although the production model will likely accommodate five occupants.
Design-wise, the Vision RS sports crisp edges and precise lines, as well as several motorsport-inspired features. At the front, highlights include the sculpted bonnet that features the Skoda logo made of illuminated crystal glass, the new radiator grille with high-gloss black carbon fiber slats (also illuminated), the angular LED headlights consisting of four glass stones, the carbon fiber spoiler, and the generous air intakes in the lower grille.
Viewed from the side, the Vision RS looks sporty and practical at the same time. It features frameless side windows, a third lateral window, recessed door handles, small Czech flags on the carbon fiber side sills, and carbon fiber side mirrors with crystal-glass indicators. Finally, the lightweight 20-inch alloys have been optimized to reduce drag and feature carbon fiber detailing and a glass Skoda logo.
The rear end is dominated by the massive diffuser and roof spoiler, both made of carbon fiber. The rear air vents are from the same material, while the L-shaped taillights are made of Bohemian crystal glass. There’s also the identification mark of Skoda RS models, a light strip that spans the entire width of the car. Another interesting detail is the illuminated Skoda lettering on the rear screen.
Moving on to the cabin, it looks quite production-ready and features a large central display, sports seats, colorful touches, as well as carbon fiber and crystal glass details — most of them illuminated. The center console is made entirely of carbon fiber and integrates a minimalistic gearstick that uses shift by wire to operate the DSG transmission. While the door pull straps are a nod to motorsport, the elastic bands securing the door cards are a Simply Clever feature.
The plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a 150PS (148hp) 1.5-liter TSI turbocharged gasoline engine with a 75kW (102PS/101hp) electric motor for a total output of 180 kW (245 PS/242 hp). This translates into a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint of 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph). The 80-120 km/h (50-75 mph) acceleration takes 8.9 seconds. To do that, drivers need to use the Sport mode, with the Vision RS also offering Normal and EV driving modes.
Skoda claims the compact hot hatch emits only 33 g of CO2 per km and is able to drive up to 70 km (43.5 miles) in EV mode thanks to a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 13 kWh (of which 9.9 kWh can be used). Charging the battery takes 2.5 hours at a household power socket or charging station at home. Obviously, the battery can also be charged on the move using energy recovery.