ON THE ROAD – IAN LYNAS REVIEWS THE LATEST OCTAVIA vRS FROM SKODA

Skoda has launched the most powerful production Octavia- the new vRS which features a revised engine capable of delivering 265PS. Translated into performance terms, the revised 2.0 TSI power unit delivers rest to 100kph (62mph) in 6.4 seconds with the Estate version marginally slower with a 6.5s time.

The revised model will now carry the banner as flagship of the range. The engine comes from the same EA888 family as the unit fitted to the company’s championship-winning Fabia RS Rally2 car and has been further developed over its predecessor to deliver more power and torque; peak power has risen by 20PS. The revised engine drives through a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission as standard and despite its high power output, the Octavia vRS is remarkably efficient. Power is delivered to the road via a VAQ electrohydraulic differential lock that ensures that the newcomer has optimised grip coming out of corners and turns naturally under throttle without slipping the inside wheel and both models also feature a chassis lowered by 15mm to further improve driving dynamics.

With the new model comes buyer choice, both Hatch and Estate and worth noting there is only one engine choice; so take your pick- Hatch or load lugging Estate. Looking at design of this impressive Skoda, the updated, fourth-generation Octavia vRS features restyled front and rear bumpers and a new vRS logo on the radiator grille. This sporting range is further distinguished by a black radiator grille surround, side window trim and door mirrors. At the rear, the new bumper diffuser and tailpipes are also finished in black while the Estate comes with black roof rails as standard. Striking 19 inch Elias anthracite alloy wheels complete the exterior design package.

Black is the dominant colour of the bespoke vRS Design Selection interior where the standard equipment includes a sporty three-spoke multifunction leather steering wheel and aluminium pedal covers. The sports seats are upholstered in fabric as standard and feature contrast red stitching as well as the sporty vRS logo etched into the backrest, and the seats also offer electrically adjustable lumbar support and massage function. Just like other models in the updated Octavia range, the vRS comes with a large 13 inch infotainment system, 10 inch Virtual Cockpit and optional head-up display. Front seat passengers have access to fast-charging USB-C ports and a wireless charger with active ventilation, while rear seat passengers benefit from fast-charging USB-C ports, plus air-conditioning with its own rear-seat-only third zone. Other standard equipment on the new vRS models includes an electrically operated boot with virtual pedal, Keyless entry and start / stop and blind spot detection; very much a complete package.

Perhaps you did not know, Skoda aims to be one of the best-selling brands in Europe by 2030 and buyer choice will play a major role, currently eleven passenger models, Fabia, Scala, Octavia, Superb, Kamiq, Karoq, Kodiaq, Enyaq, Enyaq Coupe, Slavia and Kushaq. Production not only takes place in the Czech Republic, where I have been fortunate to visit one of their impressive production sites, but also in China, Slovakia and India.

Ian Lynas