Author: Liam

Fresh images of the updated Octavia vRS have been released by Skoda. The facelifted Octavia range pushes the exterior design away from the more squared off look of its predecessor. It’s probably a 50/50 result, some will prefer the previous look, others will prefer the update. AUSmotive HQ falls into the latter category and are fans of the more sculpted bonnet and sportier lower grille treatment on the vRS.

The comparatively flowing headlights, which can now be optioned with xenons for the first time, are also a welcome addition. Jumping on the latest lighting fad, the Octavia vRS also has LED daytime running lights.

Of course, as with most cars that offer a wagon and sedan version AUSmotive reckons the wagon is the pick. Ever since Audi’s RS2 there has always been something intrinsically appealing about sporty estates.

The vRS can be powered by petrol and diesel four cylinder engines, both donated from parent company Volkswagen, and both with healthy performance. The 2.0 T FSI is good for 147kW and emits a relatively low CO2 figure of 175g/km. The 2.0 TDI CR, meanwhile, produces 125kW and emits 150g/km of CO2.

Both model variants are matched to a six speed transmission, which can be a manual or DSG.

Pleasingly, the updated model is lighter than the car it replaces. The petrol versions weigh 20kg less and the TDI is down 15kg. After driving the previous model and coming away more than impressed, this should only further improve the car’s sporting capabilities.

More from Skoda after the jump.

Following images of the new vRS the Octavia Scout has been given the once over by the Skoda facelift team. The look is almost more Subaru Outback than the Outback itself. Subtle additions to the bodywork give the Scout the car a purposeful and rugged appaearance.

Despite the looks the car has just 179mm ground clearance which is good, but not great. Having previously owned a 2001 model Outback, which had 200mm ground clearance it’s easy to see plenty of situations where the Scout will be compromised. Still, in reality, this will matter little to the majority of owners who will only indluge in the lightest of off-road journeys, if at all. On that basis, a lower centre of gravity is a good thing.

The Scout can be powered by a 118kW 1.8 TSI petrol engine or a 103kW 2.0 TDI diesel. A six speed manual is the only gearbox on offer and both cars utilise Gen IV Haldex all-wheel drive technology.

Earlier this year, Skoda Australia proved the car’s ability by sending a pre-facelift Scout around the country, covering over 20,000kms in six weeks. You can read more about that in AUSmotive’s Melbourne International Motor Show article on Skoda.

More after the jump.