Paris Motor Show: Skoda Vision RS shows hybrid tech, hot hatch body

skoda vision rs paris 2018 debut

This is more or less what Skoda’s future compact cars will look like

Skoda has just unveiled the Vision RS prototype in Paris. The concept is inspired by Skoda’s 117-year career in motorsport and relies on a hybrid powertrain.

Centered around a 1.5-liter TSI petrol unit making 110 kW (150 PS/147 hp) assisted by an electric motor good for 75 kW (102 PS/100 hp), Skoda Vision RS’ hybrid powertrain delivers an overall output of 180 kW (245 PS/241 hp).

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The carmaker tells us in this setup, the Vision RS can go for 70 km relying solely on electric energy, while CO2 emissions sit at just 33 g/km.

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The resources delivered by the two motors are handled by a six-speed DSG transmission, which lends a hand to the prototype’s 0-100 km/h sprint time of 7.1 seconds and top speed of 210 km/h.

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A Li-ion battery pack with a total capacity of 13 kWh feeds the electric motor. Skoda says charging the battery via a cable at a charging station or home outlet takes 2.5 hours.

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On the driving side, the one sitting behind the wheel can pick one of the three pre-set modes – Normal, EV, and Sport.

“With the Vision RS, we are offering a sneak preview of how Skoda’s new compact car looks. We are combining the Skoda-typical generous amount of space with an emotive and dynamic design as well as numerous Simply Clever features,” said Bernhard Maier, Skoda CEO.

On the inside, the Vision RS employs a large central display that acts as instrument panel. It can be moved upwards at the push of a button to make available a smartphone charging and docking station.

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We’re told that the infotainment setup is compatible with Amazon Alexa when combined with either an Amazon Echo speaker or the Alexa smartphone app. Among other things, it can let the driver know how much fuel is left in the tank or whether the car’s windows and doors are locked.

Below you'll find the official launch livestream video:

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