Skoda Laura RS

The Skoda Laura RS is a sporty variant of the Laura, designed to appeal to driving enthusiasts. It features a 1.8 TSI petrol engine that produces 160 HP, paired with a smooth 6-speed manual gearbox. The car boasts Xenon curve projector headlights, an electric sunroof, and sporty interiors with part-leather Alcantara seats and a 3-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel. The rear seats, though stylish, are less comfortable and have limited legroom. The car excels in handling and braking, with ABS, EBD, and MBA ensuring safe and precise stops. The luggage space is generous, with 560 litres expanding to 1430 litres when the rear seats are folded. Safety features include anti-glare rear view mirror, ASR, and TCS, making it a well-rounded package for those seeking both performance and practicality.

The Skoda Laura RS is a mixed bag for enthusiasts and practical buyers alike. While it looks stunning with its RS styling, including the rear deck lid spoiler, vRS badge, and chrome-tipped twin exhaust pipes, it falls short of being a true RS model. The Indian spec version retains the same 1.8 TSI engine as the regular Laura, which, although powerful and smooth, lacks the punch of the international 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine. The handling is balanced, but not as sharp as one would expect from an RS model. The ride quality is commendable, soaking up bumps well, but the rear suspension feels stiff, affecting rear passenger comfort. Overall, its a great blend of sportiness and practicality, but it doesnt fully live up to the RS badge.

The Skoda Laura RS was priced around Rs. 18,27,322 ex-showroom in Mumbai when it was launched. On-road prices would have varied depending on the state and local taxes, but you could expect to add another Rs. 2-3 lakhs to the ex-showroom price. This pricing positioned the Laura RS as a premium offering in its segment, competing with other high-end sedans. While the price was steep, the features and performance it offered made it a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of style, comfort, and driving excitement.

The Skoda Laura RS offers decent mileage, considering its performance-oriented nature. In real-world driving conditions, you can expect around 10-13 kmpl in the city and up to 15 kmpl on the highway. These figures are respectable, especially given the cars powerful 1.8 TSI engine. However, actual mileage can vary based on driving habits and road conditions.