Skoda Octavia vRS returns to India: Limited to Just 100 Units

The Skoda Octavia vRS has long enjoyed a strong reputation among Indian enthusiasts, known for combining everyday usability with genuine performance. Earlier generations built a cult following thanks to their turbocharged power and understated design. The 2025 Octavia vRS is set to return as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), built to United Kingdom specifications but imported from the Czech Republic. With updated styling, a more powerful engine and a limited allocation to just 100 units, the car is positioned to carry forward the vRS legacy in India.

Most recently Skoda India launched the Skoda Kodiaq Lounge, an entry level 5-Seat variant of their flagship SUV. The Skoda Kodiaq Lounge is priced at ₹39.99 lakh ex-showroom India.

Skoda Octavia vRS – Exterior Design

The new MK4 Skoda Octavia vRS carries the brand’s minimalist yet aggressive design language. At the front, the car gets a gloss-black grille with distinctive sporty air intakes, complemented by sleek LED headlights and sharper daytime running lights. Along the side, 19-inch alloy wheels and slightly lowered suspension give the vRS a performance stance, while subtle wheel arch flares add to its looks. At the rear, the Octavia vRS features dual exhaust outlets, a lip spoiler and a darkened diffuser, elements that differentiate it from the standard model.

Skoda Octavia vRS – Interior Design

Inside, the Skoda Octavia vRS has a good balance between everyday comfort and driver-focused sportiness. Sports seats with deep bolstering, contrast stitching, and vRS badging add to car’s sporty character. Premium materials like Alcantara inserts and brushed metal trim give the Skoda a premium touch, while the flat-bottomed steering wheel, aluminium pedals, and paddle shifters add performance cues. You get a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13-inch infotainment screen which is expected to have all the basic bells and whistles.

Skoda Octavia vRS – Engine and Powertrain

The heart of the Skoda Octavia vRS is its 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 265 hp and 370 Nm of torque. Power is channelled through a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission to the front wheels, allowing the sedan to sprint from 0–100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds. Top speed is electronically capped at 250 km/h. While international models feature Dynamic Chassis Control, the India-bound car will not receive adaptive dampers.

Skoda Octavia vRS – Safety Features

Safety remains a priority, with the Skoda Octavia vRS expected to retain a robust suite of features from the standard Octavia. 10 airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, traction control, and parking assistance systems form the core. Depending on final market specification, advanced driver assistance features (ADAS) may also be included. While the focus is clearly on performance, the car is not likely to compromise on Skoda’s established reputation for safety.

Skoda Octavia vRS – Market Positioning and Rivals

Bookings for the Skoda Octavia vRS open on October 6, with prices to be revealed on October 17. Deliveries are scheduled to begin from November 6. Only 100 units are allocated for the Indian market, making this not just a performance offering but also a highly exclusive one. Since it is a CBU, pricing is expected to align closely with premium performance hatchbacks and sedans, placing it near the Volkswagen Golf GTI in positioning.

Mr. Ashish Gupta, Brand Director of Skoda Auto India, speaking to Shutterdrives at a media roundtable announcing the Octavia vRS launch that the company is keen on expanding the vRS brand in India. He added that models like the Kodiaq vRS are under active evaluation for an India debut in the near futureSkoda Octavia vRS

Competition for the Skoda Octavia vRS comes from both direct and indirect rivals. The Golf GTI appeals to the same enthusiast audience, while luxury models like the BMW 220i, Mercedes-Benz A Class and Audi A4 could tempt buyers seeking luxury badges. The Octavia vRS instead builds a unique case on a blend of  performance, everyday practicality, and the cult following of its badge in India.