New Skoda Octavia vRS to appear at the Goodwood Festival of Speed The new Octavia vRS will be the fastest yet, with a claimed 0-62mph time of 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 154mph for the 217bhp 2.0-litre petrol version. There's also a 181bhp 2.0-litre diesel model with a 0-62mph time of 8.1 seconds and a top speed of 144mph. These figures are for cars fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox. A Direct Shift Gearbox will be optional. Despite the new car's improved power and performance, Skoda claims the vRS uses up to 19 per cent less fuel than the old model. A Start-Stop system which turns off the engine when stationary and Brake Energy Regeneration are among the Skoda's fuel-saving features. The vRS promises sharper handling than the standard car, thanks to sports suspension with a mult-link axle at the rear. An electronic differential lock is fitted, which should improve traction and reduce any tendency to understeer in fast corners. As before, the Octavia vRS will be available in hatchback and estate versions. Both body styles sit 12mm lower to the ground than the standard Octavia, and feature honeycomb air intakes, a more aggressive front bumper, and bi-xenon headlights with integrated LED running lights. Four designs of alloy wheels will be available from 17- to 19-inches in diameter, with red brake callipers visible between the spokes. At the rear a diffuser element, twin trapezoidal exhausts and a rear spoiler set the vRS apart from less poweful models. Inside, the vRS has sports seats, a three-spoke steering wheel, stainless steel pedals and sill plates, and a new instrument panel design. Deliveries to British customers are will begin in August. Prices should be announced at the Festival of Speed, and are likely to start from £22,500-£23,000.