The new Skoda Octavia vRS 245 now delivers 245 PS – a 15 PS increase on the previous RS making it the most powerful Octavia in the company’s history.

The powerful engine and 'innovative' chassis technology, including an electronically regulated VAQ limited-slip differential, together offer ‘the ultimate driving experience’ says Skoda.

Available as either a hatchback or an Estate, The 2.0 TSI engine produces the 245 PS for a 0 to 62 mph time of 6.6 seconds (6.7 seconds for the Estate) on to an electrically limited top speed of 155mph. There is a choice of 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG gearbox with fuel consumption of 44.1 mpg for 7-speed DSG variant.

A Performance Mode Select with Performance Sound Generator function enables individual adjustment of drive, chassis and comfort settings and Adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) is available as an option. Compared to the ‘normal’ models in the range, the sports chassis lowers the body of the Octavia vRS 245 by 15 mm. Its rear track is 30 mm wider than that of its predecessor.

The ESC stability system with Sport mode is also part of the standard equipment, aiding particularly dynamic acceleration when exiting corners. The technology, that was originally developed for motorsport, works with an electronically regulated multi-plate clutch. As and when it is needed, 100 per cent of the power can be directed to one front wheel. When cornering, the differential transfers an increased amount of engine power to the outer front wheel – i.e. to the wheel with the most grip – as required. The risk of understeer during acceleration is significantly reduced. The standard, burnished gloss-black alloy wheels are 19 inches in diameter.

Styling wise, the vRS 245 features the new 'face' of the Skoda brand, adding particularly sporty details. The radiator grille’s vertical slats as well as its frame both come in a gloss-black finish. The bumper is designed with a bold horizontal line, has broad honeycomb air inlets and contributes to the car’s ‘wide and sculptured’ impression.

The redesigned headlight clusters in a crystalline look feature full-LED technology and the AFS adaptive front light system as standard. The fog lights, tail lights and number plate illumination also feature LED technology as well as a crystalline appearance.

On the inside, Alcantara sports seats with high sides and integrated headrests offer safe support even in fast corners. The Multifunction sports steering wheel with perforated leather and integrated steering wheel paddles (for DSG transmissions), is joined by a colour Maxi-Dot display integrated into the instrument cluster. Boot capacity (hatchback) comes in at 590 litres (1,580 l with folded rear seats) and in Estate guise, 610 litres (1,740 l with folded rear seats).

The new vRS 245 comes with the latest generation of infotainment systems bringing LTE module and Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing occupants to always be online. The Connect with mobile online services is divided into two categories: Infotainment Online for entertainment and information, as well as Care Connect for support and assistance.