Two Big Launches From Volkswagen And Skoda For 2025: Revealed
Skoda and Volkswagen are preparing two performance-focused launches in India before the end of 2025. While Skoda will bring the Octavia RS into India as a fully imported model, Volkswagen will assemble the Tayron 7 seat SUV in India. Both cars are expected to arrive between October and December.
Octavia RS Returns With Familiar Formula
The Octavia RS has long enjoyed a strong following among Indian driving enthusiasts. Its return is scheduled between mid-October and early November 2025, with prices expected in the Rs 45–50 lakh range.
The sedan’s design updates include sharper LED headlamps, an aggressive grille, side skirts, 18-inch alloy wheels, and RS badging. These touches maintain the traditional three-box silhouette but add visual cues that underline its performance role.
Under the bonnet is a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine making 265 hp and 370 Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Power goes to the front wheels, enabling a 0–100 km/h sprint in roughly six seconds. The Octavia RS blends practicality with speed, keeping its appeal as a sedan that can handle daily duties while delivering weekend thrills. As for pricing, expect to pay about Rs. 50 lakh rupees for the Octavia RS.
Volkswagen Tayron 7 Seat SUV
The Tiguan R Line may not have been a huge success in India. It is primarily because of its high price tag as the Tiguan R Line is brought as CBU units. With the Tayron, however, we expect the carmaker to take the CKD route and commence local assembly at its Aurangabad plant.
Like the Tiguan R-Line, the Tayron will also house the 2-litre turbo-petrol engine (EA888) under its hood. While the official figures are yet to surface, the output could stand at 204 Bhp and 320 Nm.
The carmaker is likely to offer just a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox on the Tayron. There will be All Wheel Drive (AWD) system on offer as well. Due to its added weight, the Tayron could likely have a meeker acceleration and slightly lower top speed than the Tiguan R Line.
Think of the Tayron as the Volkswagen version of the Skoda Kodiaq. The Kodiaq enjoys good demand in the D1 SUV segment and posts three digit monthly numbers. If Volkswagen manages to commence local assembly and price it competitively, the Tayron will be able to give the Kodiaq a strong fight. Today, options are limited in the seven-seater D SUV space- you just have the Jeep Meridian, Fortuner and the Skoda Kodiaq. The Tayron is likely to be priced close to Rs. 45 lakh.
Why the CBU Route For The Octavia RS?
While this is a choice that pushes prices higher, it reduces upfront investment for the manufacturers. This strategy allows Skoda to test demand for performance models in India without committing to local assembly. Production volumes are expected to be limited.
The Rs 40–60 lakh bracket has shown steady growth despite wider market challenges, and both brands are betting that enthusiasts will pay the premium for a distinctive product. The Octavia RS banks on name recognition from earlier generations.
These launches also support Skoda and Volkswagen’s efforts to move further upmarket in India. After building a base with models like the Kushaq, Slavia, and Taigun, both companies are adding aspirational cars that boost brand perception.