Skoda has unveiled a rally racer version of its Fabia RS model, which is called ‘Rally2’ and will be available for purchase by anyone interested. Launch date and pricing are still pending.
The only thing the Rally2 has in common with its ‘civilian’ counterpart is the body, which retains the styling cues of the original hatchback. New bumpers, extra air intakes and a large rear wing improve aerodynamic performance and nearly double the downforce over stock. By default, the car ships in Green Mamba, a color available for the standard Fabia as well.
A tubular roll cage installed early during the frame assembly ensures proper rigidity on track and takes 35.8 meters (117.5 feet) of metallic tubes to make.
Powering the Rally2 is a modified 2.0-liter turbo-four engine rated at 291 PS (287 hp / 214 kW) and 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque. The same cylinder block is used by the latest Octavia, for example. The Rally2 uses it in conjunction with a five-speed sequential transmission and AWD system with mechanical differentials. Sprint times and other dynamic characteristics remains to be revealed.
The chassis benefits from a number of improvements and comes with two interchangeable sets of wheels and brakes. Driving on asphalt is best on 18-inch wheels with 355-mm (14-inch) brake discs behind them; conquering gravel tracks is easier with 15-inch rollers and 300-mm (11.7-inch) brakes.
Other noteworthy features include bucket seats, a new control panel in the cockpit, a multi-function steering wheel and a very advanced gas tank. Sized 82 liters (21.6 U.S. gallons) large, it is made from a mixture of nylon and rubber encased in a carbon-Kevlar housing that eliminates the risk of spontaneous fuel combustion during an incident.
