AS residual values and low running costs assume greater importance to car buyers models like the Skoda Octavia FSI vRS are becoming ever more attractive.
There are many owners, including some of my colleagues, who already appreciate the performance-per-pound value of this medium sized hatchback but I think its popularity is about to take off as buyers seek out the best deals without compromising on quality.
The standard specification of this high performance family-sized hatchback includes extensive safety and security features including stability control and multiple airbags, climate control, part leather upholstery, CD, powered mirrors and front windows, alloy wheels and split folding back seat. An electric sunroof, cruise control, parking sensors and satnav are available for modest cost.
Up front is a very gutsy four-cylinder 2.0 engine with excellent get up and go from rest or when overtaking, a slick changing manual six speed box with good ratios for strong acceleration and long legged and quiet cruising.
The responsiveness of the engine is matched by the precision of the gearchanges, the delightfully balanced steering which gives excellent feedback and very strong brakes which inspire confidence.
The secondary controls are also well placed around the column and on the facia to give instant operation and the big clear instruments leave you in no doubt about how it's all working together in harmony.
The Climate control is wide ranging and precise with good output, maintenance and variability througout the cabin.
Storage space inside is above average and the massive boot starts with minimum 560 litres rising to 1,350 litres with a fairly low sill over which to lift objects.
Inside the room is excellent all round. Access is very good and even those in the back have plenty of leg and headroom and it's a good five-seater.
The seats are all part leather covered as standard and very well shaped with the front pair providing a good adjustment range and I would think drivers of all sizes would find a truly comfortable position behind the wheel and its adjustable column.
Ride quality is slightly firm, but not hard, and it soaks up bumps with ease and little complaint. You can hear how hard the system is working but you rarely feel any road shocks.
Body roll is well controlled, as is pitch or dipping and it corners with confidence and shows good grip on damp surfaces.
It's fairly brisk from rest, accomplished overtaking and is utterly composed at the motorway legal limit while it also easily delivers very good fuel economy.
Perhaps what comes as the biggest surprise to prospective owners is the Octavia vRS residual value is extremely high, one of the best in its class and on par with the better known German brands. So you can save money when you buy and sell.
A good deal at both ends is not something many manufacturers can provide, but the Skoda Octavia vRS FSI is a rare car indeed.
FAST FACTS
Skoda Octavia vRS 2.0T FSI 5dr
Price: £17,915
Mechanical: 200bhp, 1,984cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 149mph
0-62mph: 7.3 secs
Combined mpg: 35.8
Insurance group: 15
C02 emissions: 188g/km
BiK rating: 24%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000, 3yrs paint, 10yrs anti-rust