Power comes from the 197bhp 2.0-litre T FSI unit, which debuted in parent firm VW's Golf GTI. Available as both an estate and a saloon, the vRS accelerates from 0-60mph in around 7.5 seconds.
Beefier brakes and lowered, stiffened suspension mean stopping and cornering are a match for this pace. However, the Skoda is more a fast tourer than a sports car, with the front wheels losing grip if you push too hard. Fuel economy of 35.8mpg compensates, though.
On the outside, the bodykit and 17-inch alloys look great, while inside, vRS logos appear on the sports seats. There's also a new three-spoke leather steering wheel and lots of aluminium trim.
Saloons will cost £17,500, with the estate at £18,200. But whichever you choose, the vRS is a great value all-rounder. It's faster, more spacious and better equipped than, say, a BMW 525i Touring - yet costs £14,500 less.
How much will this Skoda Octavia cost you to insure?
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