What's the news?
Following the release of initial design sketches, we now get our first look inside the Skoda Vision RS concept, which will make its official public debut at the upcoming Paris Motor Show in October and use a plug-in hybrid powertrain. It will form the basis of a restructuring of the current Skoda model range that will see the Octavia moves up to make way for a production version of this hatchback.
The minimalistic cabin uses a sizeable free-standing infotainment display in the centre of the dashboard, while the instrument panel will also be a fully digitised affair. In keeping with the RS name, the rest of the concept car's interior carries a sporty theme. Four individual sports seats are angular and slender, providing comfort and support only where necessary.
One of the more eye-catching elements of the interior of the Vision RS is the centre console. Utilising a spaceframe design made entirely from carbon, it is home to the DSG control, which uses a shift-by-wire setup. As the centre console extends from the dashboard into the rear of the car, Skoda's designers have incorporated what appear to be two grab handles for those seated in the back.
Influence from the world of motorsport appear on the door panels, where the handles are loops, reminiscent of those typically seen on race cars. Other details include specially cut crystal glass trim from the Bohemian company, Lasvit.
Anything else?
In addition to Skoda pushing ahead with its plans to introduce its range of electrified models, the company is also investigating how it can use more sustainably sourced materials. With that in mind, some of the materials inside the Vision RS are kinder to the planet, such as vegan Alcantara for the seat covers and carbon fibres that are made entirely from recycled polyester.