Most powerful Skoda Octavia vRS revealed

The most powerful version of the Skoda Octavia ever has just been announced. Called the Skoda Octavia vRS 245, it produces 25bhp more than the standard vRS model.

That means the new 242bhp car can accelerate from 0-62mph in 6.6 seconds, two tenths of a second faster than the current Octavia flagship, the vRS 230. It transfers power to the road through a grip-enhancing electronically-controlled limited-slip differential.

Skoda will unveil the new Octavia vRS 245 at the Geneva Motor Show next month in both hatchback and estate guises.

Buyers will be able to choose from a six-speed manual model or, for the first time in an Octavia, a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox. With either transmission, Skoda says the vRS 245 has impressive in-gear acceleration.

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The car is fitted with sports suspension, meaning it sits 14mm lower and the rear track – the distance between the rear wheels – is 38mm wider. Both revisions are designed to aid balance when cornering. The stability control has a sport mode as standard and can reduce the amount of slip from the front wheels, allowing you to exit corners faster.

Elsewhere, a Performance Mode Select feature lets you tweak the steering, accelerator response and suspension settings for a more comfortable or sporty ride.

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A new front grille and bumper set the vRS 245 apart from lesser models and the LED headlights can vary their beam to avoid dazzling oncoming drivers. Inside, you’ll find Alcantara-trimmed sports seats, LED ambient lighting and aluminium trim in a largely black interior.