Skoda has released three new design sketches previewing its upcoming Octavia vRS. Set to debut at the Geneva Motor Show on March 3rd, the range-topping model represents 20 per cent of Octavia sales in the UK, meaning it's certainly worthy of our attention, although changes to the car for this fourth generation make it even more interesting than it might otherwise have been.
Not only is the new Octavia more generously proportioned than its predecessor, but its sporty vRS variant will also be available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain for the first time. With an output of 245hp, the set-up is expected to match its 2.0-litre petrol equivalent, while surpassing the as-yet-unconfirmed - but highly likely - diesel variant. With Volkswagen's Golf GTE sharing the same MQB Evo platform, it's likely that its pairing of a turbocharged 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and single electric motor powered by a 13kWh battery will be replicated in the hybrid vRS.
But while the electrified system will of course offer the usual benefits of greater economy and reduced emissions, it'll have its drawbacks too. Extra weight from the battery packs will no doubt affect performance and handling, meaning that the pure-petrol option could remain the pick of the bunch.
Whichever method of propulsion buyers opt for, however, the sketches reveal that they'll be receiving a model which manages to be both rounder and more angular than before. The curved, bulging bonnet is joined by plenty of sharp creases and aggressive shapes, not least when it comes to the large front air intakes.
Elsewhere the usual array of splitters, diffusers, spoilers and 'Xtreme' vRS wheels make an appearance, alongside plenty of dramatic black detailing and a dual-exit sports exhaust. As for how the production car delivers on the performance its appearance implies, we'll have to wait till the Spring to find out.
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