A 'real' hot diesel for under ¯¿½12K? Yes, the Fabia vRS has all the best Skoda attributes but also the hottest diesel engine they've ever produced!
It's got more torque than a Porsche Boxster, a higher top speed than a Lotus Elise 1.8 and manages 0-60mph quicker than an Alfa 166 2.0-litre Twin Spark. And yet it's a diesel!
For once it's taken an unlikely source to show the other manufacturers how to do it. For this hot new fire-breathing D-car is actually a Skoda.
Some manufacturers are still rolling out diesel versions as an after-thought for economy-minded codgers and bearded hippy families with 18 children. But diesel drivers aren't necessarily old blokes who drive in gloves and shake their fists at anyone who overtakes them. Some of us like to press on a bit!
So at last the Czechs have come up with the sort of car we've been asking for. A reasonably-priced, economical, well-equipped, well-styled hot hatch. This car sports a 1.9 turbo, does almost 130mph and 0-60mph in less than 9.6 seconds. There's a six-speed - box, lowered and stiffened suspension, ABS and traction control.
You'll spot it among the traffic by its discreet spoilers, vRS badges, alloys and low profile tyres. Blink and you'll miss the cute green brake callipers and stainless steel tailpipe.
Go to: Page 1 Page 2
