I got an invite from my local Skoda dealer to attend the official NZ lauch of the Octy 2 RS. I suspect it was a bit more low-key than other country launches - about 40 people and a quick speech from the owner of the dealership.

Nice car though. I've been dying to see one in the flesh for ages. Photos definitely don't do it justice and the interior looks much better in the flesh too. I'm impressed with the build quality and the general feel - much more Audi-like. I'll see if I can get a test drive soon.

No test driving last night, free beer and wine instead!

The one thing that really surprised me is the spec and price. The estate costs $49,995 here, or 16,937GPB at current exchange rates. The saloon 2 grand cheaper.

Not only that but you get pretty much all the extras. Basically everything except the sunroof. So they come as standard with the 18" wheels, parking sensors front and rear, xenons, maxidot display, 12 speaker stereo, curtain airbags, ESP, the lot!

AND Skoda NZ will honour the warranty if the car is re-chipped to 180kw (240bhp). I don't know who they use but the ECU is sent overseas for re-flashing!

There was some hilarity when someone opened the bonnet of one of the demo cars and said "Wow, it's been chipped already!". There was a Mcdonalds chip in the engine bay, and a small cockroach eating it!! The salesman ent a bit red!

That *is* a good range of standard kit they are fitting.

Do they get the climatronic as well?

if only uk specced that well!

That *is* a good range of standard kit they are fitting.

Do they get the climatronic as well?

Yep, dual zone climate, chilled glovebox, jumbo centre thingy.

:orb_hypno :orb_hypno ....buy one.....:orb_hypno :orb_hypno ......you know you want to!.....:orb_hypno :orb_hypno

:orb_hypno :orb_hypno ....buy one.....:orb_hypno :orb_hypno ......you know you want to!.....:orb_hypno :orb_hypno

Stop! I can't afford one!

Anyway I have to keep mine for another two years or I'll have to pay import duty.

And I love my car!