Skoda has unveiled the Vision RS Concept at the 2018 Paris Motor Show. The new concept previews the Euro-spec next-gen Skoda Rapid that will come exclusively as a hatchback.
Visually, the Vision RS Concept is low-slung and as sporty and dynamic as a Skoda hatchback gets. Its bonnet features a Skoda logo made of illuminated crystal glass. The gloss black carbon-fibre slats of the radiator grille are also illuminated. Carbon fibre has been used for the side air outlets, the air inlet grille and the front spoiler as well. The headlights consisting of four glass stones enhance the sophisticated styling of the concept.
On the sides, the Skoda Vision RS Concept features bold wings, dynamic shoulder line, frameless, tinted side windows, recessed door handles and 20-inch alloy wheels that are claimed to be optimised to reduce drag. Interesting details at the rear include a diffuser, a roof spoiler with an integrated third brake light, both made of carbon fibre, and illuminated Skoda lettering.
Inside too, the concept has some carbon-fibre bits. For instance, the centre console, which is in a space-frame design, is made entirely of carbon fibre. A gearstick is integrated into the centre console and uses shift by wire to operate the DSG.
The concept uses a performance-spec plug-in hybrid powertrain with a net output of 245 PS. Its powertrain combines a 150 PS 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine with a 102 PS electric motor for a net output of 245 PS. The plug-in hybrid drive is mated to a 6-speed DSG. The concept accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds, and it has a top speed of 210 km/h.
Selectable driving modes include Normal, EV or Sport. In the EV mode, the vehicle can travel up to 70 km. The capacity of the battery stands at 13 kWh, of which 9.9 kWh can be used.
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The Skoda Vision RS Concept will evolve into the next-gen Skoda Rapid (EU) likely in early 2019. The redesigned model will go against the likes of VW Golf, Ford Focus, Seat Leon, Honda Civic Hatchback and Peugeot 308.
