SKODA

SKODA OCTAVIA HATCHBACK 2.0 TSI vRS 5dr DSG

Fuel

FuelPetrol

Transmission

TransmissionAutomatic

Acceleration

0 - 62 mph6.7s

WLTP - CO2 (g/km)

WLTP - CO2157 g/km

You know the Skoda Octavia vRS. It's the car you dread to see in your rear view if you're making progress a bit enthusiastically on the motorway. The police buy them because they're subtle, fast, reliable and affordable; four attributes that work well with private buyers too. This MK4 model's bigger and plusher than ever and offers the option of Plug-in hybrid tech. Even the standard petrol version still gets to 62mph in under seven seconds. In other words, don't be tempted to try to outsprint one.

COP THIS

The fourth generation Skoda Octavia vRS follows a well-established routine. Why mess with a winning formula? Jonathan Crouch takes a look.

Ten Second Review

You know the Skoda Octavia vRS. It's the car you dread to see in your rear view if you're making progress a bit enthusiastically on the motorway. The police buy them because they're subtle, fast, reliable and affordable; four attributes that work well with private buyers too. This MK4 model's bigger and plusher than ever and offers the option of Plug-in hybrid tech. Even the standard petrol version still gets to 62mph in under seven seconds. In other words, don't be tempted to try to outsprint one.

Background

Yes, the vRS is the go-faster model of the Skoda Octavia range, launched at a time when going faster seems to be about as socially acceptable as a Gary Glitter comeback tour, but stick with it. There's a lot more to this car than flicking the vees at the mandated speed limit. The vRS has long been a car that's all about making discreet progress, which is why they're the darlings of motorway police the length and breadth of the country. They're capable but subtle. Granted, a GATSO camera's not going to differentiate between a navy blue Octavia and a lime green Lambo, but if you prefer not to draw attention to the fact that you enjoy your driving, the vRS is a wholly informed choice. This one's the fourth generation vRS model, although those of you with longer memories might well recall the first generation car initially being badged an RS. That car first appeared in 2001, with the bigger and better built second generation model arriving in 2005 and a MK3 version arriving in 2012. This latest vRS adds the option of Plug-in hybrid tech to the existing petrol and diesel 2.0-litre options. Let's take a look.

Driving Experience

Of course, you want to know how quick the VRS is. I did. So, being completely useless at suspense, here's the detail. The 245PS 2.0-litre TSI petrol powerplant driving through the 7-speed DSG auto gearbox that most will want (there's an alternative 6-speed manual also available) will punt the Octavia vRS to 62mph in only 6.7 seconds. There's also an alternative 200PS 2.0 TDI diesel vRS variant which can optionally be had with 4WD. Or even a vRS iV Plug-in Hybrid variant which gets 400Nm of torque and an all-electric driving range of 34 miles. All vRS derivatives get more direct 'Progressive' steering. And fine-tuned sports suspension lowered by 15mm. An electronic VAQ limited-slip differential is fitted as standard and provides more traction on the front axle through corners, while the braking system features 17-inch front discs as standard. Whatever flavour of Octavia vRS you happen to prefer, it'll come with a fresh generation of drive assist technology. Previously, the optional 'ACC' 'Adaptive Cruise Control' system (now standard) merely braked and accelerated the car based around a pre-set speed. Now, it uses the car's front camera system, GPS data and a host of sensors to drive the car predictively. So when 'ACC' is set, the car knows in advance about bends, roundabouts and upcoming traffic flow, plus this Skoda will adapt itself to speed limits as you enter them.

Design and Build

Available in either hatch or estate guise, the fourth-generation Octavia vRS introduces an evolved look that is both sporty yet subtle. Although instantly recognisable as a member of the vRS family, the new Octavia is sharper and more intricately detailed than its best-selling predecessor. Both hatch and estate models feature unique front and rear bumper designs that incorporate a host of black details. These include the double-slat radiator grille, lower air diffuser and the distinctive air curtains above the front fog lights. The door mirror housings and window frames are also finished in gloss black, while the estate model is finished with black roof bars as standard. At the rear, the hatch model adds gloss black aero flaps, diffuser and a subtle boot lid spoiler, while both models come with chrome exhaust tailpipes and bespoke vRS badging as standard. Inside, this vRS aims to combine sportiness with comfort and a generous quota of technology. The smarter multifunction three-spoke leather steering wheel is equipped with DSG paddles and knurled wheels in a chrome design. As usual with an Octavia, back seat space is class-leading. As is boot capacity, which has grown to 600-litres in the hatch, or 640-litres in the estate.

Market and Model

Prices start at around £34,000 for a typical 2.0 TSI DSG hatch vRS model - and there's the alternative of an estate body style. You can also have manual transmission. Obviously, you'll pay more for the alternative 2.0 TDI 200PS DSG diesel derivative - which can also be had with 4WD. Equipment levels are generous, including 19-inch 'Altair' anthracite alloy wheels, chrome exhaust tailpipes, a powered tailgate, an exterior gloss black sports styling kit with bespoke bumpers and red brake calipers, full-LED Matrix headlights, rear privacy glass, keyless entry, front and rear parking sensors with manoeuvre assist, 'Progressive' dynamic steering and sports suspension that's 15mm lower than the standard Octavia. Inside, there's a three-spoke leather sports multi-function steering wheel, a black headlining and Adaptive cruise control. The seats, along with the steering wheel, armrests and Alcantara-padded instrument panel all bear the famous vRS logo and distinctive red stitching. Carbon optic decorative strips, LED ambient lighting and aluminium pedals complete the vRS's interior design package. The brand's Virtual Cockpit instrument panel is fitted as standard and offers an additional Sport layout. This complements the Columbus infotainment system that features a large 10-inch touchscreen display.

Cost of Ownership

As well as offering a good deal more pace and space than many of its rivals, this MK4 model Octavia vRS doesn't do at all badly on economy and emissions, hence a reasonable BiK tax rating for the 2.0 TSI variant of 34%. The car's efficiency readings are helped by an 'Energy Recovery' set-up which reclaims energy that would otherwise be lost under braking or during cruising. And the usual Start/stop system to cut the engine when you don't need it, stuck at the lights or waiting in traffic. With the diesel variant, you'll need to keep the tank for the necessary AdBlue additive topped up to keep within sight of the quoted readings. Of course, the figures you'll achieve will depend to a great extent on how you drive, another area in which this Octavia aims to assist you. The 'Drive Mode Select' set-up offers the option of an 'Eco' setting that'll tweak all of the car's systems for ultimate frugality. In addition, whichever Octavia vRS variant you select, you can monitor its ongoing frugality via selectable consumption read-outs on the left and right hand side of the 'Virtual Cockpit' digital instrument binnacle screen. Or via the 'Vehicle' section of the centre-dash screen where you can select 'Since Start', 'Long Term' and 'Since Refuel' read-outs on economy. The ultimate performance/efficiency Octavia vRS combination is delivered by the Plug-in Hybrid iV variant, which can go up to 34 miles (WLTP) on a single charge which would take about 3.5 hours from a garage wallbox.

Summary

The Skoda Octavia vRS does nothing particularly radical - but then it doesn't need to. It has established a profitable niche for itself in offering a model that's presentable, rapid, discreet and which won't break the bank. Buying a quick car is no longer the no-brainer decision it once was, especially when the budgetary constraints of a growing family look likely to stymie your plans. The vRS offers all the solid common sense of the Skoda brand with more than enough about it to reassure anyone that they're not on the fast track to pipe and slippersville. Downsides? There aren't really too many to mention. If you're the sort of person who'll feel the irresistible draw of the Volkswagen or Audi brands, you probably won't give the less overtly slick Octavia the time of day. Still, that just leaves the vRS as a potential winner for anyone who doesn't feel the need for a more prestige badge. When the outside lane of the motorway clears like Moses parting the Red Sea before you, you'll probably realise it was money well spent.

  • Rear privacy glass
  • Heated rear windscreen
  • Rain and light sensors
  • Aero front windscreen wipers with intermittent function
  • Electric front and rear windows

  • ESC including ABS, EBV, MSR, ASR, EDS, HBA, DSR
  • Front and rear disc brakes
  • Hill start assist
  • Electronic parking brake
  • Hill hold control
  • Red brake calipers

  • Textile floor mat set

  • Sports suspension with 15mm lower
  • Front and rear stabilizers

  • 2x USB Type C ports (for charging and data transfer)
  • 2x USB Type C ports in rear of front centre armrest (charging only)
  • 1x USB Type C port in rear view mirror (charging only)
  • Bluetooth system
  • Voice control system

  • Speed limiter
  • Front assist system
  • Turn Assist
  • Progressive dynamic steering

  • Virtual Cockpit - 10.25" digital display
  • Wireless SmartLink for Apple Car Play
  • Colour multifunction trip computer
  • Columbus satellite navigation with 10" touchscreen display
  • Smartlink (includes android auto and mirrorlink)

  • Automatic dimming rear view mirror
  • Electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors

  • Carbon optic decorative inserts
  • Gloss black air vent surrounds

  • DAB Digital radio
  • Swing radio with 8.25" touchscreen

  • Ice scraper in fuel cap
  • Chrome exhaust tailpipes
  • Body colour door handles
  • Door sills with vRS logo
  • Exterior gloss black sports styling including front grille, side strip, window surrounds, door mirror and badging
  • vRS bumpers and lip spoiler

  • High level third brake light
  • Rear fog light on one side
  • Full LED Matrix headlights with AFS and integrated headlight washers, rear LED lights and dynamic indicators and cornering front fog lights

  • 4 foldable roof handles
  • Umbrella in door panel
  • Sunglasses storage
  • Front centre armrest
  • Cloth upholstery
  • Black headlining
  • Illuminated air conditioned glovebox
  • Ticket holder
  • Chrome inner door handles
  • Aluminium pedals
  • Leather trimmed gearshift lever
  • Alcantara padded dash panel with contrast stitching
  • Satin black textured with artificial stiching in dash board pads
  • Parcel shelf - folding
  • Three spoke leather sports multifunction steering wheel with paddles

  • Luggage compartment lighting x1 light

  • LED interior light pack - Octavia

  • ISOFIX on front passenger seat and outer rear seats
  • Visual and acoustic seat belt reminder
  • Warning reflectors in front door
  • Alarm with interior monitoring, tilt sensor and back up horn
  • Automatic warning lights in case of emergency braking
  • Automatic door unlocking in case of crash
  • Emergency call and proactive services
  • Head and curtain airbags
  • Automatic fuel cut off in case of crash
  • Tyre pressure monitor
  • Drivers knee airbag
  • 3 point front/outer rear seatbelts+pre-tensioners
  • Passenger airbag deactivate switch
  • Two tone horn

  • Heated front seats
  • 3 rear headrests
  • Front head restraints
  • Height adjustable driver and passenger seat with lumbar support
  • Unsplit rear bench seat and split folding backrest
  • Mechanical rear seat release

  • Keyless entry and start/stop including rear doors
  • Door locks with immobiliser
  • Remote central locking

  • Electronically controlled limited slip differntial

  • Sun visors with mirrors

  • 19" Altair anthracite alloy wheels

  • CO2 (g/km): 150
  • Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6
  • NOx: 0.02
  • HC+NOx: N
  • Particles: 0.0001
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb: 157
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low - Min: 247
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low - Max: 264
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium - Min: 162
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium - Max: 179
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High - Min: 131
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High - Max: 152
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High - Min: 143
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High - Max: 175
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - Max: 181
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - Min: 157

  • Cylinders: 4
  • Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE
  • Number of Valves: 16
  • Camshaft: DOHC
  • Fuel Delivery: TURBO DIRECT INJECTION
  • Catalytic Convertor: True
  • Engine Layout: FRONT TRANSVERSE
  • Compression Ratio: 9.6:1
  • Transmission: SEMI-AUTO
  • Gears: 7 SPEED
  • Cylinders - Bore (mm): 82.5
  • Cylinders - Stroke (mm): 92.8
  • CC: 1984

  • EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: False
  • EC Urban (mpg): 31.4
  • EC Extra Urban (mpg): 55.4
  • EC Combined (mpg): 43.5
  • WLTP - MPG - Low - Min: 25.9
  • WLTP - MPG - Low - Max: 24.4
  • WLTP - MPG - Medium - Min: 39.8
  • WLTP - MPG - Medium - Max: 35.8
  • WLTP - MPG - High - Min: 48.7
  • WLTP - MPG - High - Max: 42.2
  • WLTP - MPG - Extra High - Min: 44.8
  • WLTP - MPG - Extra High - Max: 36.7
  • WLTP - MPG - Comb - Min: 40.9
  • WLTP - MPG - Comb - Max: 35.3
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low - Min: 10.9
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low - Max: 11.6
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium - Min: 7.1
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium - Max: 7.9
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High - Min: 5.8
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High - Max: 6.7
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High - Min: 6.3
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High - Max: 7.7
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - Min: 6.9
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - Max: 8

  • Generation Mark: 4
  • Alternative Fuel Qualifying: False
  • Special Edition: False
  • Special Order: False
  • Based On ID: N
  • Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 25E
  • NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %: N
  • NCAP Child Occupant Protection %: N
  • NCAP Pedestrian Protection %: N
  • NCAP Safety Assist %: N
  • NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09: 5
  • Badge Power: 245
  • Badge Engine CC: 2.0
  • Vehicle Homologation Class: M1
  • Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?: False
  • Coin Series: vRS
  • Coin Description: TSI
  • Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 3
  • Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage: 60000
  • Manufacturers Paintwork Guarantee - Years: 3
  • Manufacturers Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years: 12

  • Engine Power - KW: 180
  • Engine Power - RPM: 5250
  • Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 273
  • Engine Torque - NM: 370
  • Engine Torque - RPM: 1600
  • Engine Power - BHP: 245
  • Engine Power - PS: True
  • 0 to 60 mph (secs): False
  • 0 to 62 mph (secs): 6.7
  • Top Speed: 155
  • Engine Torque - MKG: 37.7

  • Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP
  • RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

  • Alloys?: True
  • Space Saver?: False
  • Wheel Style: ALTAIR
  • Tyre Size Rear: 225/40 R19
  • Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT
  • Wheel Type: 19" ALLOY
  • Tyre Size Front: 225/40 R19

  • Width (including mirrors): 1994
  • Height: 1457
  • Height (including roof rails): N
  • Length: 4702
  • Width: 1829
  • Wheelbase: 2681

  • Minimum Kerbweight: 1445
  • Gross Vehicle Weight: 2023
  • Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 51.5
  • Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 600
  • No. of Seats: 5
  • Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 1600
  • Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 750
  • Max. Loading Weight: 578
  • Max. Roof Load: 75
  • Luggage Capacity (Seats Down): 1555
  • Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 10.4

  • Rear window wiper: £0

  • Dynamic chassis control with performance mode select: £945

  • Wireless charging: £335

  • Front and rear parking sensors with manoeuvre assist: Included
  • Blind Spot Detection (BAS): £510
  • Adaptive cruise control: Included
  • Lane assist: Included
  • Park assist (inc front/rear parking sensors): £355
  • Rear-view parking camera Inc Rear LED lights (high) and dynamic indicators: £605

  • Virtual pedal with electrically operated boot door (Rear LED lights (high functionality), dynamic indicators and power operated child safety locks): £190
  • Electrically operated boot door (Includes rear LED lights (high functionality) and dynamic indicators and power-operated child safety locks): Included

  • Head up Display: £700
  • Travel assist: £1,020
  • Driver fatigue sensor: £45

  • 8 speakers: Included
  • Canton sound system: £590

  • Exclusive paint: £975
  • Metallic paint: £595
  • Pearlescent paint: £595
  • Special solid paint: Included
  • Additional special solid paint: £595

  • Climatronic dual-zone electronic air conditioning: Included

  • Simply clever pack - Octavia: £95
  • Winter pack - Octavia vRS: £485
  • Winter pack with Heated rear seats - Octavia/vRS: £950

  • Metallic - Moon white: £595
  • Metallic - Race blue: £595
  • Metallic - Quartz grey: £595
  • Metallic - Brilliant silver: £595

  • Pearl - Black magic: £595

  • Exclusive paint - Velvet red: £975
  • Special solid - Meteor grey: £0
  • Exclusive paint - Crystal black: £975
  • Special solid - Corrida red: £595

  • Driver and passenger front and side airbags: Included
  • Power child locks on rear doors: Included
  • Front central airbag: Included
  • Crew protection assist and front central airbags: £170
  • Front and rear crew protection assist and rear side airbags with front central airbags: £530

  • Towing preparation: £200
  • Integrated tow bar with adapter: £975

  • Cloth - Black with red stitching: £0

  • Tyre repair kit: Included
  • Temporary space saver wheel with 125/70 R18 tyre: £185

Whilst every effort is made to verify and ensure the accuracy of the data, the information should only be used as a guide and no purchasing decision should be made without verification of the data from either the manufacturer or franchised dealer. Our offers may be on a different model year to that represented by this data and so specification may differ accordingly.

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