Skoda Octavia vRS (2013 – 2020) Review
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Skoda Octavia vRS (2013 – 2020) Verdict
Practical and refined performance version of latest Octavia. Available with excellent TSI engine or more economical TDI unit. Handling much improved over the standard car.
Top vRS 230 gets more equipment but a considerable firmer ride.
Find out more about the Skoda Octavia vRS (2013 – 2020)
Skoda's vRS stock continues to grow with each new incarnation and although the 2010 Fabia vRS didn't quite catch the imagination of the public in the same way as the original TDI version, the vRS badge is still recognised by many as something of a more practical alternative to a GTI.
That's very true of the latest Octavia vRS. It uses the same platform as the latest Golf (and Audi A3 and SEAT Leon for that matter) and uses the same engines too. The petrol is a 2.0 TSI with 220PS which makes this Octavia the most powerful ever built. It's a superb engine with a smooth revving nature and great response when you want it to perform.
Acceleration from 0-62mph takes 6.8 seconds - a Golf GTI with the same engine is only 0.3 seconds quicker. Yet it will average - according to the official figures anyway - 45.6mpg. Of course start enjoying that performance and this will soon drop. The other engine is the 2.0 TDI with 184PS which has incredibly strong in-gear acceleration yet is still quiet and refined. Economy is impressive too with a claimed 61.4mpg.
To go with its sporting nature the vRS gets sports suspension and has been lowered by 12mm plus it gets the XDS electronic differential as standard. This system cleverly brakes the inside wheels in corners, making the car feel more agile and meaning less steering lock is required. It also has new electro-mechanical progressive steering. On the road the Octavia is a revelation compared to the standard car with much improved steering feel and a sharper nature through corners. It's a very enjoyable car to drive yet is still usable every day thanks to a supple ride and easy controls.
To make it stand out from the standard model, the vRS gets honeycomb design air intakes, a bespoke front bumper and fog lights along with xenon headlights. At the back there's a diffuser and trapezoidal exhaust pipes. It gets 17-inch alloys as standard but there are 18-inch and 19-inch wheels available as options. The 18-inch wheels come in silver and anthracite while the 19-inch in black. Inside there are vRS sports seats and a three-spoke steering wheel with perforated leather.
Skoda Octavia vRS 2.0TSI 230 Estate 2016 Road Test
Reviews for Skoda Octavia vRS (2013 – 2020)'s top 3 rivals
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Skoda Octavia vRS (2013 – 2020) handling and engines
- Engines range from 2.0 TDI 184 4x4 DSG Estate to 2.0 TSI 245 DSG
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 26–61 mpg
While there was a positive response to the new Octavia when it was launched, the handling wasn't a particular highlight. However, for the vRS it's clear Skoda has worked to ensure its sportiest Octavia has the handling and steering to merit the vRS badge.
That's down to a number of changes such as a sport chassis and a 15mm lower ride height. There's also a new multi link suspension at the rear but the two big factors are the progressive steering and the XDS system. The progressive steering system means that you don't need as much steering input in corners as the steering ratio actually changes depending on how far the wheel is turned.
This is coupled with the impressive XDS system. It's a feature we've seen on the Fabia vRS and which is used across the Volkswagen Group. It uses the ESP to cleverly brake the inside wheels in corners, making the car feel more agile and meaning less steering lock is required. It makes the Octavia feel far keener in corners than the standard car.
All these things combine to make the vRS an impressive handling car. It's actually something of a revelation compared to the standard car with a solid and planted feel at speed yet an agile and composed nature through corners. The steering has a nice weight to it and a decent amount of feel too but it's perhaps how well the Octavia vRS responds to quick changes of direction that impresses. It's genuinely enjoyable to drive quickly.
It's a great all rounder too because while it's very composed when you throw it into a corner, with little in the way of body roll, it still rides well. So around town it's as easy to drive and as comfortable as a standard Octavia. All the main controls like the gear change and clutch are nicely weighted while it's still easy to manoeuvre despite its larger wheels,
We're big fans of the 2.0 TSI engine and think it suits the vRS perfectly. It's got a real zest about it with a free revving nature yet has great refinement. It's the same engine that's used in the latest Golf GTI so it's no surprise that it's so strong. On paper it will accelerate from 0-62mph in 6.8 seconds while economy is reasonable with a claimed 45.6mpg.
Not so exciting but equally as good is the 2.0 TDI version. It makes sense if you want a blend of usable performance and economy. The figures say it can average 61.4mpg. It may not have as much power as the petrol with 184PS but it makes up for it with 350Nm of torque which means it will pull in sixth on the motorway with real strength. Emissions for the manual are just 119g/km too. It lacks the character of the TSI but it will make more sense for many buyers.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 TDI 184 | 64 mpg | 7.9 s | 119 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 184 4x4 DSG | 55–58 mpg | 7.6 s | 129–134 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 184 4x4 DSG Estate | 55–57 mpg | 7.7 s | 129–134 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 184 DSG | 58–63 mpg | 7.9 s | 119–129 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 184 DSG Estate | 58–59 mpg | 8.0–8.4 s | 129 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI 184 Estate | 63 mpg | 8.0–8.3 s | 119 g/km |
| 2.0 TSI 220 | 46 mpg | 6.8 s | 142 g/km |
| 2.0 TSI 220 DSG | 44 mpg | 6.9 s | 142 g/km |
| 2.0 TSI 220 DSG Estate | 44 mpg | 7.1 s | 149 g/km |
| 2.0 TSI 220 Estate | 45 mpg | 6.9 s | 142 g/km |
| 2.0 TSI 230 | 44–46 mpg | 6.7 s | 142–143 g/km |
| 2.0 TSI 230 DSG | 43–44 mpg | 6.8 s | 146–149 g/km |
| 2.0 TSI 230 DSG Estate | 43–44 mpg | 7.0 s | 147–149 g/km |
| 2.0 TSI 230 Estate | 44–45 mpg | 6.8 s | 143–149 g/km |
| 2.0 TSI 245 | 43–46 mpg | 6.6 s | 150–152 g/km |
| 2.0 TSI 245 DSG | 44–46 mpg | 6.6 s | 139–146 g/km |
| 2.0 TSI 245 DSG Estate | 44–46 mpg | 6.7 s | 141–146 g/km |
| 2.0 TSI 245 Estate | 43 mpg | 6.7 s | 150–154 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Skoda Octavia vRS (2013 – 2020)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
77%
Real MPG
26–61 mpg
MPGs submitted
303
Skoda Octavia vRS (2013 – 2020) interior
- Boot space is 590–1740 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4667–4689 mm |
| Width | 1814–2017 mm |
| Height | 1448–1482 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2686 mm |
The interior of the Octavia vRS isn't the most exciting for what is a performance hatch, but there's no denying the build quality nor the fit and finish which are impeccable. It feels a very solid car and so while it may be a little dark that is Skoda's aim - it says black is beautiful which may explain the black finish across everything including the roof lining.
To lift the interior there is red or green stitching on the seats, which are another real strength of the vRS. They offer a superb combination of comfort and support, particularly at the sides, plus with plenty of adjustment in the seat and steering column it's easy to find an ideal driving position. There are some other small vRS details like the badging on the three-spoke multifunction steering wheel and on the instrument dials.
The layout of the cabin is easy to get on with all the controls and switches clearly labelled while there's impressive storage too. The door pockets are huge and there's a large central cubby that doubles as an armrest. There are two useful cupholders next to the handbrake.
What really makes the Octavia vRS such a good all rounder is its practicality. It goes like a GTI yet has plenty of rear passenger room - helped by a longer wheelbase than its predecessor - and a huge boot with 590 litres in the standard hatch and 610 litres if you go for the estate version. The backrests of the rear seats can be folded down via handles in the boot in a 60/40 split.
Other genuinely handy features include the optional double-sided floor mat which has carpet on one side and a dirt and water repellent surface on the other, ideal for transporting muddy wellies, plants or pets. As with the standard Octavia, the vRS also has the handy ice scraper built into the fuel filler flap.
Skoda Octavia vRS (2013 – 2020) models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4667–4689 mm |
| Width | 1814–2017 mm |
| Height | 1448–1482 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2686 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1345–1497 kg |
| Boot Space | 590–1740 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / 60000 miles |
| Servicing | 18000–20000 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Tyre-repair kit | ||
| Alternative | Space-saving spare wheel | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £24,885–£32,170 |
| Insurance Groups | 26–30 |
| Road Tax Bands | C–G |
| Official MPG | 42.8–64.2 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 5 |
On sale until February 2021
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 TDI 184ps VRS DSG 4X4 5dr | - | 55.4 mpg | 7.7 s |
| 2.0 TDI 184ps VRS DSG 5dr | £29,180 | 57.7 mpg | 8.4 s |
| 2.0 TSI 245 VRS Black Pack DSG 5dr | - | 44.1 mpg | 6.7 s |
| 2.0 TSI 245ps VRS 5dr | £28,825 | 42.8 mpg | 6.7 s |
| 2.0 TSI 245ps VRS Challenge 5dr | £30,780 | - | 6.7 s |
| 2.0TSI 245 VRS Challenge DSG 5dr | £32,170 | 45.6 mpg | 6.7 s |
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 TDI 184 VRS DSG 4X4 5dr | - | 55.4 mpg | 7.6 s |
| 2.0 TDI 184ps VRS DSG 5dr | £27,980 | 57.7 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 2.0 TSI 245ps VRS 5dr | £27,625 | 42.8 mpg | 6.6 s |
| 2.0 TSI 245ps VRS DSG 5dr | - | 44.1 mpg | 6.6 s |
| 2.0TSI 245 VRS Challenge 5dr | £29,580 | 46.3 mpg | 6.6 s |
| 2.0TSI 245 VRS Chlng DSG 5dr | £30,970 | 45.6 mpg | 6.6 s |
On sale until November 2018
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 TDI 184ps VRS 5dr | £27,075 | 62.8 mpg | 8.3 s |
| 2.0 TSI 230ps VRS 5dr | £26,900 | 43.5 mpg | 6.8 s |
| 2.0 TSI 230ps VRS DSG 5dr | £28,290 | 42.8 mpg | 7.0 s |
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 TDI 184ps VRS 5dr | £25,875 | 62.8 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 2.0 TSI 230ps VRS 5dr | £25,700 | 43.5 mpg | 6.7 s |
| 2.0 TSI 230ps VRS DSG 5dr | £27,090 | 42.8 mpg | 6.8 s |
On sale until September 2018
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 TDI CR 184ps VRS 5dr | £26,400 | 62.8 mpg | 8.0 s |
| 2.0 TDI CR 184ps VRS DSG 4X4 5dr | £28,810 | 56.5 mpg | 7.7 s |
| 2.0 TDI CR 184ps VRS DSG 5dr | £27,790 | 58.9 mpg | 8.0 s |
| 2.0 TSI 220ps VRS 5dr | £26,110 | 44.8 mpg | 6.9 s |
| 2.0 TSI 220ps VRS DSG 5dr | £27,500 | 43.5 mpg | 7.1 s |
| 2.0 TSI VRS 230 5dr | £27,800 | 44.8 mpg | 6.8 s |
| 2.0 TSI VRS 230 DSG 5dr | £29,190 | 43.5 mpg | 7.0 s |
| Hatchback | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 TDI 184 VRS 4X4 DSG 5dr | £27,590 | 57.7 mpg | 7.6 s |
| 2.0 TDI CR 184ps VRS 5dr | £25,175 | 64.2 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 2.0 TDI CR 184ps VRS DSG 5dr | £26,565 | 60.1 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 2.0 TSI 220ps VRS 5dr | £24,885 | 45.6 mpg | 6.8 s |
| 2.0 TSI 220ps VRS DSG 5dr | £26,275 | 44.1 mpg | 6.9 s |
| 2.0 TSI VRS 230 5dr | £26,580 | 45.6 mpg | 6.7 s |
| 2.0 TSI VRS 230 DSG 5dr | £27,970 | 44.1 mpg | 6.8 s |
Model History
- June 2013: Octavia vRS launched
- July 2013: Skoda announces prices
- September 2015
- December 2016: Revised Octavia vRS details announced
- February 2017: Octavia vRS 245 launched
June 2013
Octavia vRS launched
The new Octavia vRS accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 6.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 154 mph (with manual six-speed gearbox). The new model also offers all the outstanding features of the new Octavia: highest functionality, plenty of room, top-safety, state-of-the-art assistance systems in terms of safety and comfort, as well as being excellent value for money.
Two new engines power the new Octavia vRS. There is a choice of the two-litre petrol 220PS or two-litre diesel 184PS. The 2.0 TSI-petrol, in conjunction with the six-speed manual gearbox, thrusts the Octavia vRS from 0 to 62 mph in only 6.8 seconds. The maximum speed now lies at 154 mph, making it 4 mph faster than the second generation Octavia vRS. The new Octavia vRS 2.0 TDI-diesel manages 0 to 62 mph in 8.1 seconds with a top speed of 144 mph (with six-speed manual gearbox).
Compared to the second generation Octavia vRS, the new engines provide more power whilst consuming up to 19% less fuel. Start-Stop and Brake Energy Regeneration are fitted as standard. A manual gearbox or DSG dual clutch transmission are available as options for both engines, each with six gears.
Modern suspension optimises the handling of the compact sports car. The new Octavia vRS is fitted with sports suspension as standard. The body has also been lowered by 12mm compared to the standard Octavia (Octavia estate vRS body: 13 mm). The newly developed multi-link axle is used as the rear axle. For precise track guidance, there is a MacPherson strut with underlying triangle wishbone. Electronic differential lock XDS integrated into the electronic stability control (ESC) now comes as standard. This function improves the traction of the wheels and reduces the tendency to understeer in fast cornering. For better handling and greater agility comes the new electro-mechanical progressive steering. Thanks to this technology, the driver can make smaller movements in steering to achieve the desired turning radius. That means less grip is needed for tight corners.
In comparison to the second generation Octavia vRS, the vehicle has grown significantly in length (+88 mm, estate +86 mm) and width (+45 mm). At the same time the wheelbase has risen by 102mm, enhancing the powerful image of the car as the shortened overhang. The series standard, red-lacquered brake callipers provide pure emotion, as do the powerful proportions, high tornado line and sharp, precise edges and lines.
The Octavia vRS’s new light-alloy wheels lend the car a particularly sporty look. The designers have created four new 17-inch, 18-inch and 19-inch wheel designs. The tyres have an impressive, racy two-tone look, a distinctive outfit, visual lightness, sharp edges and a finish precise to the smallest detail. The new Octavia vRS drives on the series standard ‘Dorado’ 17-inch light alloys fitted with 225/45 tyres.
Then there are the optional 18-inch ‘Gemini’ and ‘Pictoris’ alloys (each for 225/40 tyres). Two colours are available for the ‘Gemini’: silver und anthracite. Anyone who appreciates ultra-sporty wheels will love Skoda's accessories for the Octavia vRS and there are yet more treats in store like the ‘Xtrem’ 19” light alloys in black.
The rear is dominated in the lower section by a strong black diffuser element and the overlying wide reflector spotlight.These elements are also distinctive features of the new Octavia vRS just like the two large, trapezoidal-shaped chrome exhaust tailpipes. Then there are the rear lights fitted as standard with LED technology in the brand’s typical C-shape. And the designers have not forgotten about the spoiler, which, on the estate vRS, is fitted as a roof-edge spoiler.
The interior of the new Octavia vRS is characterised by the sporty, black interior. The interior of the front doors is newly equipped with integrated ambient lighting for the internal door handles. There are newly developed vRS-design sports seats for the driver and passenger and a sporty three-spoke steering wheel with perforated leather is fitted as standard. The gear stick and handbrake are also made of leather. The sill plates and pedals are made of stainless steel. The instrument panel with a rich-colour Maxi DOT display has its own unique vRS design. The steering wheel, gear stick, door sill panels, seats and floor mats all sport the vRS logo.
July 2013
Skoda announces prices
The entry price for the saloon is £22,990 while the estate version is priced from £23,790. Prices rise to £25,450 for the 184PS diesel estate with DSG automatic transmission.
The Octavia vRS is the fastest Skoda model ever, capable of a top-speed of 154mph and with a -62mph sprint time of 6.8 seconds in petrol hatchback form. Standard equipment across the board includes 18-inch alloy wheels, multifunction steering wheel, parking sensors, bi-xenon headlights, LED running lights, Bluetooth, DAB, dual-zone air conditioning and touch screen infotainment.
All models feature a lower ride height (12mm for the hatch and 13mm for the estate) along with an electronic diff-lock to improve handling over the standard Octavia. The most efficient model – the 184PS 2.0-litre diesel manual – has emissions of 119g/km which means running costs are relatively low, especially for a high-performance vehicle.
| Octavia vRS prices | ||||
| Model | CO 2 | OTR | BiK (‘13-14) | P11D value |
| Hatchback | ||||
| 2.0 TSI 220PS | 142 | £22,990 | 20% | £22,795 |
| 2.0 TSI 220PS DSG | 149 | £24,380 | 21% | £24,185 |
| 2.0 TDI CR 184PS DPF | 119 | £23,260 | 18% | £23,205 |
| 2.0 TDI CR 184PS DSG DPF | 129 | £24,650 | 20% | £24,595 |
| Estate | ||||
| 2.0 TSI 220PS | 142 | £23,790 | 20% | £23,595 |
| 2.0 TSI 220PS DSG | 149 | £25,180 | 21% | £24,985 |
| 2.0 TDI CR 184PS DPF | 119 | £24,060 | 18% | £24,005 |
| 2.0 TDI CR 184PS DSG DPF | 132 | £25,450 | 21% | £25,270 |
September 2015
Skoda Octavia vRS 230 performance upgrade made available at an extra £2500. Lifts power to 230PS, adds an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, bigger brakes, different exhaust, unique 19-inch alloy wheels, leather sports seats, satnav, park assist and a trip computer with lap timer. Looks like you get your money's worth.
December 2016
Revised Octavia vRS details announced
The upgraded vRS is available as a hatchback and estate. Both body styles have two four-cylinder engines to choose from. While the 2.0 TDI diesel engine has the same 184PS output as previously, the performance of the 2.0 TSI petrol engine has increased by 10PS to 230PS.
The 15 mm lower sports suspension and the rear track, 30 mm wider than the predecessor, as well as the red brake callipers underline the dynamic character of the new vRS. 18-inch wheels are available as standard, while 19-inch wheels are available as an option.
February 2017
Octavia vRS 245 launched
The latest vRS accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 6.6 seconds (Estate: 6.7 seconds) and its top speed is limited to 155 mph.
Compared to the normal models in the range, the sports chassis lowers the body of the Octavia vRS 245 by 14 mm. Its rear track is 38 mm wider than that of the predecessor. The standard, gloss-black alloy wheels are 19 inches in diameter.
What to watch out for
Report of waterpump of 2013 Skoda VRS 2.0TSI failing at 13,800 miles.
16-07-2016:Report of coolant light on in new 3 month old Skoda Octavia VRS 2.0TSI at 1,950 miles. Coolant below minimum. Owner called out AA who thought EGR cooler or head gasket. I guessed also maybe the waterpump (see 3-7-2016).
26-07-2016:Further report of VRS mentioned on 16-7-2016. Despite having been told it is probably due to failure of the waterpump, the owners son continues to report emulsion in the header tank.
29-09-2017:Report of clutch of 2015 Skoda Octavia vRS 2.0TSI failing at 10,000 miles. Dealer swallowed 3 hours labour at £100 an hour and reduced replacement bill from £1,200 to £900.
13-03-2018:Report of timing belt of 2014 Skoda Octavia vRS 2.0TDI failing at 88,000 miles, destroying the engine. Manufacturer recommendation for cambelt replacement is at 140,000 miles or 5 years, or whichever comes soonest.
27-03-2018:Report of failure of DQ250 6-speed wet clutch DSG in 2017 Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDi 184 DSG Auto Start/Stop vRS 5dr Estate. Sometimes it judders instead of changing gear smoothly. Fluid and filter changed, but fault still intermittently occurs. Car will run for 5-10 minutes, then it happens again.
17-12-2018:Report of 2014 Skoda Octavia vRS TDI with 33,000 miles overheating at speed. When driver lifts off it cools down instantly. Dealer tells him it needs a new waterpump.
06-03-2019:Numerous issues reported with December 2016 Skoda Octavia vRS Estate, purchased used in June 2017. Soon developed an intermittent fault with the park pilot. When reverse gear is selected the park pilot does not always appear on the media unit, the sensors work just not the screen. Owner first reported this fault when the car went in for a service in December 2017. A second fault then started with the stop start system, where when the car is in stop mode and I then engage first gear the screen on the dashboard sometime changes to the navigation screen. A third fault then developed where the radio did not always mute when reverse gear was selected. The local dealer has had the car numerous times and have only seen the stop start fault in action. In September/October 2018 they cleared all the software and this cleared the stop start fault and the radio not muting. Since then they changed the media unit and the parking control unit, neither if these have worked. On Monday 25th February they took the car in and they cleared all the software again, they returned my car to me on Tuesday 26th February and unfortunately on Wednesday 27th February the stop start fault occurred (first time since the media unit was changed) and on Thursday 27th February the park pilot screen failed. Both of these faults have happened this week as well.
28-04-2019:Vibration reported from front brakes of 2014 Skoda vRS at 29k miles. I thought warped discs from sitting on the brakes after a long brake. Halfords Autocentre thought a problem with the ABS. Skoda dealer prescribed new front discs but keeping the old pads. Did not fix the problem so new rear discs and pads were fitted. Rear pads had suffered very uneven wear. Possibly rear brake compensator valve not working properly.
