Car Skoda Octavia A7 FL RS It became a real event for fans of compact sports sedans and liftbacks. Facelift 2017 brought not just cosmetic changes, but a significant update of the technical stuffing, which made the model even more attractive against the background of competitors. Many buyers are looking for this version, as it combines the practicality of a family car and the drive of a sports coupe.
Under the hood Octavia A7 RS hidden engines that can provide impressive acceleration dynamics to hundreds of kilometers per hour. The design of the body received aggressive features, and the interior has become more technologically advanced and comfortable. Owners note that after the upgrade, the car became quieter at high speeds and softer at irregularities, while maintaining the sporty nature of the suspension.
Exterior and external differences of facelift
Visually distinguish Octavia A7 FL The pre-facelift version is quite simple, if you know the key details. The front bumper received larger air intakes, which improves the cooling of the brake system and gives the muzzle a more predatory appearance. Lighting has undergone major changes: now full LED headlights with matrix technology are installed, which significantly improves the view at night.
The rear of the car has also undergone changes, becoming more voluminous and modern. The new design of the taillights with a three-dimensional effect and a chrome insert above the license plate create a feeling of premium. Wheel drives have changed their design, becoming more sporty and lightweight, which has a positive effect on handling. It is important to note that the aerodynamic sills and spoiler on the roof of the trunk now look more harmonious.
- π Fully LED headlights with matrix technology
- π Enlarged air intakes in the front bumper
- π 18-inch sports wheels with a new design
- π Large diameter double exhaust pipes
Color palette for the version RS The metallic system has expanded to include new shades, such as deep black or a specific red metallic. The chromium on the grille has become darker, highlighting the car's sporty status. You need to pay attention to the state of the painting, as the original RS color often mimics racing cars.
Technical stuffing and power units
The heart of the restyled version was the updated 2.0-liter turbo engine TSI EA888 Gen 3B. This engine received the ACT cylinder shutdown system, which allowed to reduce fuel consumption without losing power in dynamic modes. Acceleration to 100 km/h now takes only 6.8 seconds, which is an excellent indicator for a car of this class.
Transmission received improvements in the work of the robotic machine DSG. Now the switching is even faster and smoother, the jerks that were sometimes observed on older versions have disappeared. Full-wheel drive 4x4 It became more intelligent, redistributing torque between the axles depending on road conditions. This makes the car safer in rain and snow.
- βοΈ Engine power: 190 hp and 320 Nm of torque
- βοΈ Transmission type: 6-speed DSG robot with wet clutch
- βοΈ Drive: front or full 4x4 with high friction differential
The combined fuel consumption is about 6.5 litres, which is a decent result for a sports car. The EA888 2.0 TSI engine is the most reliable in the Volkswagen Groupβs lineup in recent years.. However, like any turbo engine, it requires quality fuel and regular maintenance.
Interior and cabin equipment
Inside the cabin Octavia A7 FL RS The atmosphere of a modern sports coupe reigns. Seats with strong lateral support and emblem RS The headrests are more comfortable and functional. The material of upholstery is combined: leather and alcantara, which is pleasant to the touch and does not slide when driving actively. The steering wheel has decreased in diameter, becoming more sporty and easy to grasp.
The center console received a new multimedia complex with a large touch screen. The interface has become intuitive, and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto makes it easy to integrate a smartphone into the car system. The dashboard is fully digital, giving the driver the ability to display navigation, traffic data or cruise control information.
The build quality is at a height, all the elements of the cabin are perfectly adjusted. Plastic is soft, there are no creaks even when driving on bad roads. You should pay attention to the presence of a climate control system that works very effectively. In the cold, the salon warms up quickly, and in the summer it cools down in a matter of minutes.
- ποΈ Digital instrument panel Active View
- ποΈ Multimedia with wireless charging support
- ποΈ Leather salon with contrasting red stitch
- 2.0 TSI (petrol)
- 2.0 TDI (diesel)
- I have no preference
- I'm only interested in hybrids.
Suspension and handling features
Suspension Octavia RS It is sporty, but not at the expense of comfort. The springs and shock absorbers have become stiffer, which reduces rolls in cornering and improves the response to the steering wheel. The variable gear steering makes the car very maneuverable in the city and stable on the track. You will feel every bump, but that is the price for great handling.
System DCC Dynamic Chassis Control allows the driver to choose the mode of operation of the suspension: from soft for the city to hard for the track. This is a unique option that makes the car versatile. In Comfort mode, the suspension swallows the pits, and in Sport mode the car becomes "glued" to the road.
The braking system received enlarged discs and calipers of red color. This is not just for beauty, but also to improve braking efficiency on long, dynamic rides. The brakes do not overheat and remain effective even after a series of sudden stops. You need to check the condition of the brake pads every 10,000 kilometers.
βοΈ Check before purchase
What is the DCC system?
DCC is a dynamic suspension control system that allows the driver to choose the degree of stiffness of shock absorbers. In Sport mode, the suspension becomes stiffer for better handling, and in Comfort mode - softer for smoothness.
Comparison table of characteristics
To see the differences between the different versions and generations, we suggest you read the data in the table below. This will help you better understand the evolution of the model and choose the most suitable option for your needs. Notice the difference in power and torque.
| Model | Engine | Power (hp) | Acceleration 0-100 km/h (s) | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Octavia A7 RS (pre-styled) | 2.0 TSI | 230 | 6.8 | 4x4 |
| Octavia A7 FL RS | 2.0 TSI | 190 | 6.8 | 4x4 / 2WD |
| Octavia A8 RS | 2.0 TSI | 300 | 5.1 | 4x4 |
| Octavia A7 FL Ambition | 1.4 TSI | 150 | 8.4 | 2WD |
It is important to understand that the version with 190 hp. is more balanced for daily use than the old 230 hp version. The power reduction was done to comply with new environmental regulations and improve fuel efficiency. However, the dynamics remained at their best thanks to the optimization of the transmission.
β οΈ Attention: When purchasing a used version with mileage, be sure to check the engine service history. Timing chain problems on early 2.0 TSI versions may have been resolved by the time of facelift, but the risk still exists with poor maintenance.
When inspecting the interior, pay attention to wear on the steering wheel and pedals. If the stated mileage is low, and the steering wheel is shiny and worn out, the kilometers are most likely twisted.
Tips for selection and maintenance
Choosing Skoda Octavia A7 FL RS on the secondary market, you should be extremely careful. The main emphasis should be placed on the condition of the gearbox DSG and engine. A robotic gearbox requires an oil change every 60 thousand kilometers; ignoring this rule can lead to expensive mechatronics repairs.
The turbine is also an important element that requires high-quality oil and cooling after trips. Do not turn off the engine immediately after active driving; let it idle for a minute or two. This will extend the life of the turbocharger. You need to check for any play in the turbine and the condition of the pipes.
- π§ Regular engine oil and DSG changes
- π§ Using only high-quality consumables
- π§ Checking the cooling system for leaks
Suspension Octavia RS is more loaded than on conventional versions, so stabilizer struts and silent blocks may fail earlier. Inspect them every 20 thousand kilometers. Also pay attention to the condition of the levers, which may become deformed when hitting a curb.
Regular maintenance and the use of quality consumables are the key to a long life for your sports car's engine and transmission.
β οΈ Attention: Avoid buying cars with non-standard chip tunings that increase power to 250-300 hp. without replacing mechanical parts. This can lead to overheating and destruction of the gearbox.
Conclusion and final conclusions
Skoda Octavia A7 FL RS is the perfect balance between sporty drive and everyday practicality. Facelift made the car even more perfect, eliminating many of the childhood illnesses of the previous version. This is a choice for those who do not want to sacrifice comfort for speed, but are also not ready to put up with boring food in ordinary sedans.
The car has high potential for tuning, a reliable base and excellent liquidity on the secondary market. The maintenance cost is higher than regular versions, but the driving pleasure is worth it. If you are looking for a car that will make you happy every day, then Octavia RS - an excellent candidate.
Before purchasing, be sure to undergo independent diagnostics from VAG specialists. They will find hidden defects that regular service will not notice.
Which engine is more reliable: 190 hp or 230 hp?
Engine 190 hp (facelift) is considered more reliable and durable, since it is optimized for new standards and is less loaded. Version 230 hp more powerful, but requires more careful maintenance.
Is it necessary to warm up the engine in winter?
Modern TSI engines do not require long warm-up periods. 1-2 minutes are enough to stabilize the oil pressure, after which you can start driving in quiet mode until operating temperature.
What is the fuel consumption of the Octavia RS in the city?
In the urban cycle with an active driving style, consumption is 9-11 liters per 100 km. With quiet driving, it drops to 7.5-8.5 liters.
Does the DSG robot often break down?
With timely oil changes and proper use, the DSG robot is reliable. The main problems arise from ignoring maintenance regulations or driving in traffic jams without a start-stop mode.