Super Skoda is an ace of pace
IF there is one Skoda model that most people know, it is the Octavia.
The Czech Republic manufacturer’s biggest seller has been around since 1996 and served its time as an accomplished family car and stalwart of the taxi fleet (a sure sign of dependability), while also claiming a land speed record. the wide open space where many chapters in the long story of man’s fascination with automotive speed have been written.
Skoda also has a lengthy history of success in the gruelling world of rallying.
All of which means the Octavia vRS has a strong pedigree when it comes to performance, and the latest iteration of the model continues that tradition and ups the ante somewhat with the most powerful engine yet fitted in the production car.
It is dubbed the ‘245’, a reference to the motor’s brake-horsepower.
The 245 offers 15bhp more than the previous rangetopping model, and comes with a raft of additional equipment to deliver the brand’s sportiest drive to date.
Available as either a hatchback or estate (ours was the former), the car is also offered with a choice of a six-speed manual, fitted to the test car, or a seven-speed auto transmission.
Powered by a modified version of the marque’s 2.0 TSI four-cylinder petrol unit, the vRS 245 can sprint from 0-62 in just 6.4 seconds and on to a top speed of 155mph while returning 39mpg on the combined cycle (manufacturer’s figures).
And with a limited-slip differential, the driver can fully exploit the car’s performance.
In terms of equipment, the vRS 245 builds on the already impressive specification of the standard car. It is distinguished by striking 19in glossblack alloy wheels, gloss-black front grille and door mirror housings.
The cabin features vRS sports seats trimmed in Alcantara and decorative trim panels finished in gloss-black.
The colour multifunction trip computer, located in the main instrument panel between the speedometer and rev counter, includes a lap timer (should you fancy a track-day).
Other equipment highlights are satellite navigation with eight-inch display and integrated Wi-Fi, LED headlights with adaptive front light system and LED daytime running lights, LED interior light pack - 10 colours - and a three-spoke leather multi-function steering wheel with vRS logo.
Amid all the lovely kit and sporty trim, the 245 remains a highly practical family car with roomy interior and boot-space that puts some estate cars to shame, limited only a little in height because of the rake of the back window.
The driving experience is highly satisfying, with lots of smooth power on tap for glorious acceleration and poised handling.
Price: £29,345 inc options.