Skoda Fabia vRS (2010) at Geneva motor show

This is the new Skoda Fabia vRS, unveiled at the VW Group’s pre-Geneva party. And unlike the last vRS, this one isn’t diesel.

Yes, and under the bonnet is the same 178bhp Twincharger (supercharged and turbocharged) 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine that you’ll find in the new VW Polo GTI and Seat Ibiza Cupra. And just like its German and Spanish cousins, this little Czech also comes as standard with a seven-speed DSG gearbox. That means 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds, a 140mph top speed, but 44.1mpg.

But unlike the Seat and VW versions, Skoda will sell the Fabia vRS not only as a five-door hatch, but as an estate too. Both gets a new front bumper with fog lights and LEDs, 17-inch wheels, red brake callipers, tinted windows, and a new rear bumper complete with diffuser and twin exhausts. And on the hatch, you can pick between black, white and silver for the colour of the roof, rear spoiler and wheels.

But while the Seat Ibiza Cupra is £16,545, and the Polo GTI is expected to cost around £18k, Skoda is aiming to sell the Fabia vRS in the UK for under 16 grand. 

By Ben Pulman