Perceptions of Octavia RS

[mrgolf]

Having driven the aRSe on a mildly spirited drive through some familiar twisties, I have to say that I am impressed with its feel on the road. Having come out of a MkV GTI, I was expecting the aRSe to be a bit less involving. The jury is still out there, however, I am gobsmacked by the impression I got that it has less understeer than the GTI. Maybe its tyres, maybe its 18's vs 17's. It just seems to have more front end grip. Anyone else get this impression?

[DubSteve]

Steve does this mean that you bought the car?

[Guy_H]

I think the Rs Wagon understeers less than the GTI - mainly because of the extra weight out the back - have had it on the skidpan, when it comes around, it comes around quicker!

[gregozedobe]

I can't comment on the understeer (I don't drive test cars that hard), but the RS definitely has a much more refined ride quality than a Golf GTI, which surprised me considering it has 18" wheels vs 17s on a GTI.

[mrgolf]

Yep. Traded the GTI and a C'Line for an RS and no debt with a bigger mortgage and a child on the way in 12 weeks.

Wasnt a test drive.... although I was testing its dynamics... Impressed by its drive, not by its equipment or attention to detail. By GTI standards it is a bit low rent.

[balkanac]

i think they are really nice, im yet to drive one. the only downside is that they use the same engine as the GTi golf. That would have been a really great car

[SoVeReIgN]

i think they are really nice, im yet to drive one. the only downside is that they use the same engine as the GTi golf. That would have been a really great car

downside??

[mrx]

Having owned both for a while now, I have to agree, I always thought it was just the Michelin tyres it comes with, but maybe there's more in it?

As for low a low rent GTI, everything about it feels more solidly put together than the GTI, it's not as pretty in terms of steering wheel etc., but if I had to sell one I'd still be driving a Skoda.

[mrgolf]

Really? I loved the GTI. It is just a nicer place to be. Dislikes in the RS include:

green backlighting
steering wheel
ride height
No on/off switch for climate control
No on/off switch for dual zone
no backlit mirror on visor
no buttons on wheel
seats are a lot nicer in the GTI
no strut under the bonnet
no mute button on the stereo
no place for manual in glovebox
glovebox not lined
manual is in a crappy vinyl folder

I agree that it does feel very well put together. However, is yours a 4 door GTI? My 2 door had a few niggly rattles, but felt very nicely screwed together. I will compare the aRSe after a year of driving. Stereo seems quite good. MFD is cool and I like getting into the comfort settings. Its not all bad... Part of it might be the legend of the GTI. The heritage made GTI ownership pretty special for me. Mostly superfluous dislikes listed. At least it drives well... Ultimately more important.

[Guy_H]

Hey Steve, I have to agree with MRX on this one (agree with you on the little things missing which I can do without) - but the fit, finish, feel & the materials are equal to or above the Golf.

The only one I really miss is the steering wheel controls & the 400hp.