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4.0/5· Skoda

Skoda Octavia vRS (2013 - 2017)

2013 – 2017· 5 owner Q&As

Petrol5 Door
Motoring.Today Verdict
8.0/10

Excellent

The Skoda Octavia vRS has been a beloved choice for budget-conscious speed demons, and its electric rebirth promises to capture that thrill without burning fossil fuel! Is this retro icon ready to light up the modern roads?

At a glance

216

hp · Power

495

miles · Range / tank

6.6s

0–60 mph

£

Running costs

From £412/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

  • Powerful engine options that provide exhilarating performance
  • Impressive fuel economy for a performance vehicle
  • Practical estate variant available for added versatility

Consider alternatives if

  • Limited rear passenger space compared to competitors
  • Standard interior might feel bland for some enthusiasts
  • Not as agile as lighter performance alternatives

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£412/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £2,500 deposit

Best suited for

  • Company Car Drivers
  • Petrol/Diesel Buyers
  • High Mileage Drivers
  • Families

Affordability

Affordable

Above average monthly commitment.

Ratings breakdown

performance45/10
practicality44/10
running costs35/10
behind the wheel43/10
comfort40/10
equipment41/10
green credentials30/10
handling42/10
reliability40/10
safety42/10

Theo's AI summary

The Skoda Octavia vRS, produced from 2013 to 2017, brilliantly amalgamates practicality with performance, making it an outstanding choice for buyers who refuse to compromise. Its blend of versatility, comfort, and thrilling dynamics positions it as a recommended purchase for those seeking an engaging yet sensible vehicle. Additionally, with the market’s shift towards electric vehicles, the upcoming electric model poised to honour the vRS legacy promises an exciting future.

Best match for

  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Practical families
  • Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£130/month

Insurance

£127/month

Road Tax

£18/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£335/month

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Precision is the hallmark of the Octavia vRS's handling capabilities. Thanks to its well-tuned suspension and stiff chassis, the vehicle offers exceptional cornering stability, allowing for confident navigation through tight bends. The use of performance tyres also enhances grip,

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The Škoda Octavia vRS (2013-2017) is praised for its blend of performance and practicality, boasting a spacious interior and ample boot space. Enthusiastic drivers appreciate its responsive handling and powerful engine options. However, some critics mention that the ride can be firm, potentially affecting comfort on long journeys.

Read full review
Autocar

Experts highlight the Škoda Octavia vRS's sporty design, which combines aggressive styling with functionality. Its low-slung posture and distinctive accents appeal to many, but some find the interior materials less luxurious than rivals. Overall, it offers a good balance of style and substance.

Read full review
WhatCar

In terms of reliability, the Škoda Octavia vRS has a solid reputation, with many owners reporting minimal issues. It scores well in owner satisfaction surveys, but some concerns about electrical components and infotainment systems have been noted. Regular maintenance is advisable for optimum performance.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options for the Octavia vRS are versatile, with various agreements available, including PCP and HP arrangements. Given its broad appeal and robust resale value, the vRS is likely to attract attractive rates on financing, providing a further incentive for buyers looking for a performance vehicle without the crippling financial burden.

Day-to-day running costs

Running the Skoda Octavia vRS proves to be surprisingly affordable, especially considering its performance credentials. Regular maintenance costs are reasonable, with comprehensive service packages available for peace of mind. Fuel economy is commendable, allowing drivers to enjoy spirited driving without the guilt of excessive fuel expenditure. Insurance premiums also tend to be competitive, making it an attractive option for both new and seasoned drivers alike.

Charging & fuel

For petrol versions, fuel types and operational efficiency hold significant importance, but plans for an electric variant could alter prospective fuel costs dramatically. The anticipated electric model, ‘Retro Icon Reborn’, promises to enhance long-term ownership economics with significantly lower charging expenses and maintenance, given the reduced number of moving parts in EVs.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2013

    Launch of the Skoda Octavia vRS with enhanced performance features

  2. 2016

    Facelift introduces updated technology and styling

  3. 2017

    Production ends as the market shifts towards electric vehicles

Read full launch story

The Skoda Octavia vRS was designed to cater to those who sought a performance-driven vehicle without sacrificing daily practicality. It serves both as a family car and a sports hatch, appealing to a broad range of drivers. Since its inception, the vRS line has evolved from a niche offering to a well-respected model within Skoda's range, reflecting changing consumer preferences while maintaining its core ethos of performance and comfort.

Compare with alternatives

The Skoda Octavia vRS (2013 - 2017) stands out as a versatile and practical performance hatchback option, balancing everyday usability with spirited driving dynamics against its rivals.

Volkswagen Golf GTI

Reference only

Highly popular and sporty hatchback known for its performance and everyday usability.

vs features
The Golf GTI offers a more premium cabin feel and slightly better infotainment features, but the Octavia vRS feels more spacious and practical.
vs price
Typically, the Golf GTI is slightly more expensive than the Octavia vRS, reflecting its brand cachet and sporty performance features.
No Motoring.Today review

Ford Focus ST

Reference only

A performance-oriented hatchback with a strong following, focused on driving dynamics and fun.

vs features
The Focus ST is often praised for its engaging handling and performance, though interior quality may not match the Octavia vRS’s spacious and well-finished cabin.
vs price
Typically, the Focus ST is priced similarly to the Octavia vRS, but options and trim can influence the final cost.
No Motoring.Today review

Renault Megane RS

Reference only

A sporty hatchback designed for enthusiasts, emphasizing performance and track capability.

vs features
The Megane RS is very performance-focused with a thrilling driving experience, but it sacrifices some practicality compared to the Octavia vRS's spacious rear and boot.
vs price
Typically, the Megane RS can be more expensive than the Octavia vRS when equipped with performance features.
No Motoring.Today review

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Skoda Octavia vRS (2013 - 2017) for sale on Motoring.Today

Specs by trim

2.0 TSI vRS Hatchback 5dPetrol Manual · 2013–2017
Power
216 bhp
0–60 mph
6.6 s
Top speed
154 mph
Torque
350 Nm
Economy
45 mpg
Range
495 mi
CO₂
142 g/km
Insurance group
29
Road tax
£210
New price
£24,740
2.0 TDI CR vRS Hatchback 5dDiesel Manual · 2013–2017
Power
181 bhp
0–60 mph
7.6 s
Top speed
144 mph
Torque
380 Nm
Economy
64 mpg
Range
704 mi
CO₂
115 g/km
Insurance group
26
Road tax
£35
New price
£25,175
2.0 TDI CR vRS Hatchback 5d DSGDiesel Automatic · 2013–2017
Power
181 bhp
0–60 mph
7.6 s
Top speed
143 mph
Torque
380 Nm
Economy
60 mpg
Range
660 mi
CO₂
124 g/km
Insurance group
26
Road tax
£160
New price
£26,565
2.0 TDI CR vRS Estate 5dDiesel Manual · 2013–2017
Power
181 bhp
0–60 mph
7.7 s
Top speed
143 mph
Torque
380 Nm
Economy
62 mpg
Range
682 mi
CO₂
117 g/km
Insurance group
26
Road tax
£35
New price
£26,400
2.0 TDI CR vRS Estate 5d DSGDiesel Automatic · 2013–2017
Power
181 bhp
0–60 mph
7.7 s
Top speed
142 mph
Torque
380 Nm
Economy
58 mpg
Range
638 mi
CO₂
126 g/km
Insurance group
26
Road tax
£160
New price
£27,790
2.0 TSI vRS Hatchback 5d DSGPetrol Automatic · 2013–2017
Power
216 bhp
0–60 mph
6.7 s
Top speed
152 mph
Torque
350 Nm
Economy
44 mpg
Range
484 mi
CO₂
146 g/km
Insurance group
29
Road tax
£210
New price
£26,130

+ 8 more trim variants

FAQs

What makes the Skoda Octavia vRS a good choice for performance enthusiasts?
The Skoda Octavia vRS seamlessly blends spirited performance with hatchback practicality, offering agile handling and impressive acceleration. Its electric powertrain ensures efficiency, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious drivers seeking a thrilling driving experience.
How does the electric vRS compare to petrol models in terms of running costs?
The electric Skoda Octavia vRS features lower running costs due to reduced maintenance and charging expenses compared to traditional petrol models. This efficiency provides significant savings over time and aligns with environmentally-conscious driving.
What is the estimated cost of the Skoda Octavia vRS?
The Skoda Octavia vRS is competitively priced at around £24,000. With finance options available, including manageable monthly payments starting at approximately £350, it remains an attractive option for performance seekers.
What are some notable pros of the electric Skoda Octavia vRS?
Pros of the electric Skoda Octavia vRS include outstanding performance and practicality, reduced running costs, strong safety ratings, agile handling, and spacious interiors, making it suitable for families and commuters.
What are some potential downsides of the Skoda Octavia vRS?
Potential downsides include a limited range compared to some electric competitors, higher pricing for some buyers, less intuitive interior tech, and rear visibility challenges due to design.

Skoda Octavia vRS (2013 - 2017) (2013–2017)

From £412/month