The successful Škoda Fabia RS Rally2 competition car has received a number of upgrades for the 2025 season, which Škoda Motorsport refers to as the "Packet 25." The car's engine boasts increased power, new shock absorbers are available, engineers have increased the durability of certain components, and crew comfort has also been improved. These upgrades can also be applied to Fabia RS Rally2 cars already in use.
Škoda Motorsport actively supports teams competing with its cars in many ways. In addition to intensive service support, the Czech car manufacturer's racing division has introduced technical improvements to its racing specials for this year. "Work on a successful rally car never stops. That’s why we have continued developing it since its introduction. The new enhancements have undergone rigorous testing, demonstrated their benefits, and received FIA homologation for customer use," says Michal Hrabánek, Head of Škoda Motorsport.
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The most significant improvements relate to the engine, its power, and throttle response. "We focused on optimizing gas exchange within the engine, refining the fuel mixture preparation, and improving combustion efficiency, resulting in increased power," explains engine engineer Lukáš Růsek. The energy required for cylinder flushing has been reduced by 27%. "We achieved this by modifying the exhaust system, including redesigning the exhaust manifold," Růsek adds. The engine control software has also been revised. Additionally, the exhaust piping is now lighter, contributing to a more emotional and aggressive engine sound.
A new feature for this season is a set of updated gravel absorbers. These are more durable while maintaining the same weight. Škoda Motorsport has also enhanced the protection of drivetrain and suspension components. These improvements promise increased longevity for the drive shaft boots, brake callipers, and brake cooling ducts. New uniball seals also increase their durability. Overall, these upgrades help reduce operating costs for Fabia RS Rally2 specials equipped with "Packet 25."
From a comfort perspective, the most notable improvement is the redesigned roof air intake, which improves ventilation while keeping water out of the cabin´s interior. New racing seats are also available, weighing two kilograms less than the previous version. This helps lower the car’s centre of gravity.
"It’s great that we pilots have a car that keeps improving. Even though the Škoda Fabia RS Rally2 is already a fantastic car, the Škoda Motorsport team is constantly working to make it even better and faster," says Robert Virves, one of the 12 drivers who tested "Packet 25." The test drivers covered over 4,000 kilometres in testing. Virves also shares some specific insights: "I can see significant progress in engine response. It’s even sharper and has incredible power in higher gears," the Estonian driver notes, praising the package’s benefits. He believes fans will also appreciate the improvements. "The engine sound with the new exhaust is beautiful and aggressive," he adds.
Newly delivered cars will come with several "Packet 25" improvements as standard, while others will be optional. These upgrades will also be available for previously sold and customer-operated Fabia RS Rally2 cars. Škoda Motorsport has already sold more than 150 of them. With these improvements, Škoda Motorsport aims to further strengthen the success of its rally car, which remains a mainstay in the WRC2 category. Since its debut in 2022, the Fabia RS Rally2 has participated in over 1,800 events and secured more than 600 podium finishes in competitions ranging from the FIA World Rally Championship to the FIA European Rally Championship and various continental and national championships worldwide.
