2017 Skoda Octavia RS 230 quick spin review

What is it?

Something of a cult classic. Enthusiasts have cottoned-on to Skoda's mid-sized performance car, the Octavia RS sedan and wagon that share key elements with Volkswagen's Golf GTI. This one is a limited-edition model with more grunt, improved dynamics and sharper looks.

How much does it cost and what do you get?

That depends on whether you want a sedan ($41,490) or the more popular wagon ($43,190). Either way, you get a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that drives the front wheels through a clever electronically controlled, mechanically locking differential. With 169kW on tap, this RS 230 version gets an additional 7kW of power over the regular car, along with the front diff, 19-inch wheels and gloss black touches for the mirrors, grille, exhaust tips and spoiler. Naturally, as a top-of-the-range model, it is also loaded with gear, including active cruise control, dual-zone climate control, sat nav and smartphone apps such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A five-year warranty with capped price servicing helps seal the deal.

2016 Skoda Octavia RS230. Photo: Mark Bean

What's under the bonnet?

Skoda's place as a member of the Volkswagen Group allows it to use technology from its big brother. What we have here is a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine with sturdy 169kW and 350Nm outputs, enough for the Octavia to reach 100km/h in a respectable 6.7 seconds. Intriguingly, this limited-run model is only available with a manual transmission (Octavia RS and Golf GTI buyers generally go with a "DSG" dual-clutch auto) and it features Volkswagen's VAQ active differential as standard. That's a rare combination in VW-land, as the only way to get a clutch pedal with the clever diff until now was to grab a more expensive, sought-after and sold-out example of the Golf GTI 40 Years with a manual transmission.

What's it like to drive?

Spunky, but not quite as agile as a Golf GTI. Instead, the Octavia hits a middle ground more fitting of its practical character, with more stability than Volkswagen's benchmark hatch. It's a driver's car, with well-weighted steering and pedals accompanying that increasingly rare manual gearshifter. There's plenty of punch in every gear - even a little too much in first, which can get the wheels thumping up and down during harsh acceleration - and a good amount of poise thanks to its sport suspension.

The Octavia steers sweeter than rival machinery, and that clever diff pushes power to the outside wheel when cornering, helping it to hook through the bends.

2016 Skoda Octavia RS230. Photo: Mark Bean

What's it like inside?

A little demure, with swathes of black, charcoal and grey material broken up by red highlights for the well-bolstered sports seats, shift knob and flat-bottomed steering wheel. The gauge cluster is clear and concise, the infotainment display works seamlessly, and - being a Skoda - there are practical touches everywhere you look. There are also "vRS" badges sprinkled throughout the car, as that's what Skoda calls its performance models in overseas markets.

Prod the "vRS Mode" button on the centre console and you get a variety of driving modes including a customisable setting that allows you to tailor the car's steering, suspension or driveline responses, and to turn off a synthesized exhaust note that automatically comes on in sport mode. We'd recommend spending an extra $1700 on a tech pack that includes smart keys, a 10-speaker stereo, lane keeping assistance and a self-parking system with front and rear sensors.

Is it safe?

Decently so, with a five-star safety suite that stems from a full complement of airbags along with standard features such as autonomous emergency braking and active cruise control.

Would I buy it?

Yes indeed, I'm a fan of the Octavia RS theme, and the limited-edition 230 presses the right buttons with its clever diff and manual transmission. It also looks much better than the next-generation model, which has an odd-looking quad-headlamp design.

What else should I consider?

Fast wagons are relatively thin on the ground. Holden's Commodore SS-V Redline Sportwagon is a more expensive alternative, while Subaru's Levorg GT-S is less engaging.

2017 Skoda Octavia RS 230 pricing and specifications

Price: From $41,490 plus on-road costs

Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol turbo

Power: 169kW at 4700-6200rpm

Torque: 350Nm at 1500-4600rpm

Transmission: Six-speed manual, front-wheel drive

Fuel use:  6.3/100km