The new third-generation Skoda Octavia vRS is the fastest production Octavia in history.
Offered internationally with high-performance petrol and diesel engines in saloon and estate body styles, it is capable of 0-100kph in 6.8sec and a top speed of 248kph in its most potent petrol-powered state.
Set for a global reveal at the Goodwood Festival of Speed next month, the Skoda comes equipped with either a 217bhp 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine from the Volkswagen Golf GTI or a 181bhp 2.0 TDI diesel unit from the Golf GTD. The vRS diesel manages 0-100kph in 8.1sec and a 232kph top speed.
A six-speed manual gearbox is standard for both versions, whereas a six-speed DSG dual-clutch is optional. Fuel economy is said to be improved by 19 percent over the previous generation Octavia vRS.
Sports suspension is standard on the front-drive Octavia vRS, with an electronic XDS differential equipped as standard to help improve traction and reduce understeer. A ‘progressive’ steering set-up with a quicker rack also features.
The Octavia vRS is easily distinguished from more humble Octavias thanks to a series of sporty design changes. There is a new front grille, honeycomb air intakes, new front and rear bumpers, a black rear diffuser, chrome trapezoidal exhaust tips, a rear spoiler, LED rear lights and bi-xenon front headlights with integrated LEDs.
The Octavia vRs can be ordered by alloy wheels of 17, 18 or 19-inch diameter.
Inside, there are sports seats, a leather-wrapped sports steering wheel, stainless steel pedals and sill plates, and a new instrument panel. Black trim and vRS badging also feature.
The new Skoda Octavia is expected to launch in India later this year, while the Octavia vRS could hit our showrooms next year.
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