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Otago Daily Times
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Otago Daily Times
Practical and polished performer
Richard Bosselman takes the Skoda Octavia vRS Plus through its paces. ROAD TEST There are exceptions, but the words "practical" and "performance" don't always play well together. For anyone having a prior association with the Skoda Octavia vRS, learning the latest generation of this sports-themed station wagon is still a polished performer will come as absolutely no surprise. It's long been an excellent Czech mate. What feeds its "X" factor is Skoda's in-house experts' ability to fine-tune this product into a hot-shoe hero. By the same token, that team would also acknowledge they have an excellent set of base ingredients to work with. The fourth generation edition tested here stands out from predecessors in terms of its updated exterior looks and a better interior, and infotainment interface. But what keeps it sweet are core components from Germany. Platform and drivetrain sharing is a given for the VW Group. In this instance, the vRS (in local brand parlance the "v" is silent, so it's the "RS" here) presents as the family-friendly version of the classic hot hatch, the Golf GTi. Same EA888 powertrain in the same tune, same seven-speed direct shift transmission atop the same MQB platform. Both models even run the same 235/35 R19 Bridgestone Potenza tyres. The wagon being a little longer and 100kg heavier makes it a little slower to reach 100kmh from a standing start than the GT — a factory claimed 6.5 seconds puts it 0.6s behind — but it is just as fast overall. But if you want sizzle with everyday family usage smarts, the RS stands out as a clever choice. A boot that's 50% bigger, a more spacious interior overall and, on top of that, there's also a Q-ship appeal of being a more softly-softly sighting than the Golf. In the past, they've also enjoyed enough price separation to be considered peas from different pods. But now? The Octavia RS arrives in two guises — the Plus, as tested, holding a $6500 premium over the entry car, thanks to such extras as suede and leather trim in place of cloth, electric adjustment for the front seats and a premium Canton sound system. The Golf GTi does the same thing with the Touring option. When fully-kitted equivalents are compared there's a mere $490 between them. If both are on a common shortlist, it would be a matter of weighing up pros against cons. The car that works better for general driving and taking the dog to the park, but is more low-key and potentially less celebrated than the one with obvious icon status that could use its lighter kilo count and shorter wheelbase to advantage on track days or even just Sunday flings. It becomes a tough choice unless a hatch simply won't do; station wagons are a rare breed now, performance types even less so. The newest from Europe just now are this Octavia ... and the BMW M3 Touring, also a stunning achievement, but triple the price. Skoda's history of playing around with power plants for this variant has been interesting; it has had a diesel and iV plug-in petrol hybrid as alternates to the EA888. Those have had more torque and been thriftier, but don't sweat it. The petrol isn't too hard on the drink and a 15kW improvement to peak power makes it the most potent Skoda RS yet. Stow your stopwatch and it feels as punchy as the Golf. Initial acceleration is decent and the mid-range so enlivened that overtaking just isn't an issue. The dynamic edge is also sharp. With its advanced electronically controlled front differential, the 15mm-lower sports-tuned suspension and some glorious steering, the Octavia RS is very engaging. Dial up Sport mode and it rips through its seven forward gears. It's a pity the engine isn't a bit more vocal; when gunned it can come across as a bit gruff, but it never seems to bark. If this were a Golf, you'd be looking up an Akrapovic sports exhaust. The Octavia RS is not lacking for grip either, but being front drive you need to watch your throttle inputs, when kicking out of an intersection and accelerating hard out of bends. A bumpy uphill section on a favourite road got the front axle tramping momentarily, too. The single best element of the dynamic repertoire has to be the adjustable suspension dampers, and how they are used is the trick. The Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) settings span comfort, normal and sport. All have their own feel, but before simply firming up the car for fun drives, consider what the "individual" mode might offer. With this, you can fine-tune up the throttle and steering but also keep more suspension compliance; which can be handy for ambitious driving on rugged secondary roads. While the car will lean a little more, the trade-off is that it feels more supple and forgiving, while still maintaining a keen and accurate line of attack. Apart from being lower than a regular Octavia, the RS signals "phwoar" footing by having black exterior detailing, chunkier bumpers and a set of large alloy wheels and fat rubber. The rims take plastic inserts to deliver improved aerodynamic efficiency; if you can stand the slight loss of that, remove them. The wheel styling is much nicer. But you will have to buy new wheel centres. A general update for Octavia is the provision of LED light clusters front and rear. On the RS, the daylight running lights are downward angled to echo the shape of the radiator grille; a small but effective design improvement. Major RS-related touches overlaying the cabin are those wonderfully form-fitting, seemingly fits-all-sizes sculpted front bucket seats, a gorgeous three-spoke sports steering wheel, some new trim finishes in the dash, that kind of mimic carbon fibre, and the obligatory contrast red stitching. Specifications include heating for all outboard seats and and the perforated sports steering wheel has paddle shifters. It has a head-up display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite navigation, digital radio, tri-zone climate control, a 15W wireless charger, walk-up unlocking and walk-away locking, a 360-degree parking camera and clever cargo netting. Four USB-C outlets, dual-zone rear air vents and clever touches like rear phone holders are found in the back. The interior update differs from that for the Kodiaq and Superb, being more closely aligned to VW cars than the family mates and so less forward-thinking. Whereas the Kodiaq and Superb have gone to a twist-style wand behind the steering wheel for gear selection, the Octavia keeps on with a mid-console-mounted glorified switch. It's just as VW does with the Golf but this, and the absence of the excellent Smart Dials that you get in the larger Skodas, makes the Octavia feel less future-now. The graphics on the 26cm digital instrument cluster have been sharpened up, but the big change is adoption of a 33cm infotainment touchscreen, which is beautifully rendered. The main screen is easy to navigate and most of the menus branching off it also seem logical, which is just as well, because you'll be interacting with it frequently. Keeping on some key shortcut physical buttons just above the central air vents is praiseworthy, but having all its climate functions on the touchscreen seems a less useful pathway. As much as the speed of its responses and its graphical clarity seem more than good enough, there will be moments of infuriation. Infotainment-wise, if the proprietary software isn't to taste, you can bypass with either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, both now wireless. Skoda provisions a Qi smartphone charging pad with a cooling feature to prevent your device from overheating while its battery is replenished. Rear passenger room is almost lounge-worthy and while it wouldn't swallow my dog carrying cage as easily as the Superb did, the Octavia with 640 litres' capacity with the rear seats in place, rising to 1700 with them dropped, still has a very decently-sized boot among its competitor set. With comfortably more than seven million examples sold since it appeared in its modern incarnation, Octavia is clearly striking a winning chord. New Zealand is one of few markets where it hasn't been the make's best selling model. While the car here will likely be in circulation for some years yet, Skoda has signalled intent to soon show off a concept pointing to its replacement. Set to star at a motor show in Germany in September, that car will showcase a next-generation architecture to be rolled out across the Volkswagen Group and also a new design language for Octavia. It will also be electric. AT A GLANCE SKODA OCTAVIA vRS PLUS Rating: ★★★★★ Design and styling: ★★★★ Interior: ★★★★ Performance: ★★★★★ Ride and handling: ★★★★★ Safety: ★★★★★ Environmental: ★★★★ SPECIFICATIONS Price: $78,000. Engine: 1984cc four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine; 195kW/370Nm, seven-speed direct shift automatic; front-wheel-drive. Safety rating: Current model yet to be ANCAP assessed. Wheels and tyres: Alloy wheels, 225/40 R18 tyres. Fuel and economy: 7.1L/100km, tank capacity 50 litres. Emissions: 160 grams per kilometre on combined cycle. Dimensions: Length, 4709mm; width, 2003mm; height, 1468mm.
Time of India
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Volkswagen Golf GTI launched in India: German thrill at Rs 53 Lakh!
Volkswagen India has finally launched the new Golf GTI in the Indian market. The hot hatch is priced at Rs 52.99 lakh (ex-showroom) and will be bought in India via the CBU route. This positions it as the highest-priced VW model on sale in the country and the first 150 units are already sold out. The deliveries are scheduled to commence in June through select VW dealerships across India. The Golf GTi is powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine which puts out 265 hp of power and 370Nm torque. It comes paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which sends power to the front wheels only. VW claims the sporty hatchback can sprint from 0-100kph in 5.9 seconds and has a top speed of 267 kph. In terms of design, the Golf GTI looks like a typical Volkswagen with sleek lines and sharp looks. The front end features a sleeker LED light signature with a redesigned bumper and a more aggressive honeycomb grille with GTI badging. At the rear, subtle updates include a tweaked diffuser and refreshed taillights, maintaining the car's dynamic stance. The overall silhouette stays true to the Golf's timeless hatchback shape, but with sharper lines and aerodynamic enhancements for a sportier look. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like A perfect start needs the perfect ride – Shine 125! Honda Learn More Undo Other design highlights include matrix LED headlights, a streamlined grille with the iconic 'VW' emblem at the centre, a bold front bumper with a honeycomb mesh pattern, 18-inch alloy wheels, a dynamic diffuser, and a dual exhaust system at the rear and GTI badges on the grille, fenders, and tailgate. Kia Carens Clavis first drive review: Carens facelift or more | TOI Auto The Golf GTI features signature GTI elements, such as the classic tartan-patterned sport seats, red contrast stitching, and a flat-bottomed steering wheel with GTI badging. Other key highlights include multi-colour ambient lighting, soft-touch materials, metal-finished pedals and a cabin that strikes a balance between modern technology and classic GTI heritage, ensuring both performance-oriented appeal and everyday comfort. Features wise, it gets a 12.9-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, connected car tech, Chat GPT integration, connected car tech, automatic climate control, 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, ADAS features such as adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and emergency braking, Head-Up Display, VAQ Limited-Slip Differential, Drive Modes and more. Discover everything about the automotive world at Times of India .
Belfast Telegraph
15-05-2025
- Automotive
- Belfast Telegraph
There's no way I'd allow my child to get into a car being driven by a 17-year-old… I remember being one of those idiots
Thump-thump-thump-thump-thump-thump-thump. It's over 40 years ago, but I can still recall that hollow, headbanging noise as the Golf GTi careered off the B62 Ballybogey Road and ploughed through seven fence posts before ending up in a ditch near Portrush.
Hindustan Times
06-05-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Looking to book the Golf GTi? Take a look at the 4 colour options available for you
Volkswagen India has launched bookings for the Golf GTi at ₹ 2.65 lakh and is offered in four different colour options. Volkswagen is introducing the Mk8 Golf GTi in the Indian market. Volkswagen India recently opened bookings for the upcoming Golf GTi at ₹ 2,65,370 along with a quick contest to unlock the bookings page online. The Volkswagen Golf GTi is set to be introduced in limited quantities and available for purchase exclusively through the manufacturer's website. The hot hatchback will arrive as a completely built unit (CBU). The colour options for the new Golf GTI had been unveiled before the bookings had commenced on the carmaker's website. The options for potential buyers include four choices including Kings Red Premium Metallic with Black, Grenadilla Black Metallic, Oryx White Premium Mother-of-Pearl with Black and Moonstone Grey with Black. Volkswagen Golf GTI: Design The 2024 Golf GTI upholds its distinctive design language, exuding a classic, sporty, and assertive appearance. It showcases the iconic Volkswagen grille prominently displaying the 'GTI' emblem at the front. The hatchback is equipped with matrix-LED headlights for improved visibility and the front bumper sports a bold design with a striking honeycomb mesh pattern. At the rear, a sporty diffuser and dual exhausts accentuate the car's performance-focused aesthetic, complemented by 18-inch Richmond diamond-cut alloy wheels. Volkswagen Golf GTI: Engine and performance The Golf GTI is powered by a 2.0-litre, turbocharged engine, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This configuration generates 245 bhp and delivers a peak torque of 370 Nm to the front wheels. The hatchback can sprint from 0 to 100 kmph in roughly 5.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 250 kmph. Also Read : Volkswagen Tiguan R Line or Skoda Kodiaq? Here are 5 features that the Czech SUV gets over its German counterpart Volkswagen Golf GTI: Interior The Golf GTI features a refined all-black interior, complete with an intuitive dashboard layout. It includes sports bucket seats that offer excellent support for occupants. The three-spoke steering wheel, embellished with the GTI logo, enhances the sporty aesthetic, which is further underscored by metallic pedals and digital climate controls specifically designed for the GTI. A 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system sits at the heart of the interior, supporting smartphone integration and featuring the latest connect tech such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android automotive technologies. To maximise comfort and convenience, the vehicle includes automatic climate control and wireless phone charging capabilities. Also Read : Volkswagen Taigun, Virtus and Skoda Kylaq, Slavia, Kushaq recalled for faulty rear seatbelts Volkswagen Golf GTI: Expected pricing Positioning itself as a performance hatchback in India, the Golf GTI faces minimal direct competition, with the Mini Cooper S being its only primary rival, both being iconic performance hatchbacks. The anticipated price for the VW Golf GTI is expected to exceed ₹ 50 lakh (ex-showroom). Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2024, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date: 06 May 2025, 17:00 PM IST
Sunday World
02-05-2025
- Automotive
- Sunday World
The M2 is in pole position on and off the track when it comes to the BMW ‘M' range
The M2 is one of my favourite performance cars of all time and, one of the absolute best I have ever driven on a race track The BMW M2 looks great but drives even better The BMW M2 looks great but drives even better Greedy. That was the new buzz word used by my daughter's teenage pals when I rocked up one day for a school pick-up. In fairness, even my daughter didn't know the true meaning of the word that was being used to describe the truly awesome wheels I was fortunate enough to be test driving that week. The model in question just happened to be one of my favourite performance cars of all time and, one of the absolute best I have ever driven on a race track – the BMW M2. It is very interesting that BMW is showing no signs of slowing down with the production of its high-performance models – especially at a time when almost every resource is being pumped into the production and future of electric models in the entire world of car production. Inside the BMW M2 Already Skoda has called a day to the production of its RS diesel models and even the latest Golf GTi is rumoured to be Volkswagen's very last one. So it took me by surprise really that BMW has decided to freshen up its M2 and M5 models in this day and age. Well there is obviously still a high demand for these models or the German brand would have pulled the plug on them over the last few years. So what has the premium brand done with the latest model to roll off the production lines you might ask? Well from the second you see this car in the flesh it will blow you away. I mean I had neighbours knock at my door asking to sit in it, and it turned heads almost everywhere I drove in it. On the outside, the refreshed M2 features enormous wheel arches that certainly give it the sporty character that has attracted so many admirers. New front lights, a massive horizontal BMW kidney grille and the three-section split lower air intake. Although it didn't feature on my test model, the M2 can also be ordered with the optional M Carbon roof that not only reduces the weight of the car, but also lowers its centre of gravity. Elsewhere, the M2 is fitted as standard with M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design with a jet-black finish. And, the fact that the M2 sits on 19-inch rims at the front and the slightly bigger 20-inch ones at the rear, just adds to the model's spectacular stance. The BMW M2 looks great but drives even better The inside too has undergone some changes and the first thing that you notice when you step inside the beast is the bulky sports M leather steering wheel, which now has a flat-bottomed rim and red centre marker in the 12 o'clock position. Also new is the addition of BMW's latest 'Curved Display' cockpit and optional BMW 'Head-Up Display', which are made up of a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control panel. It features BMW's latest 8.5 operating system and I found it very modern and very easy to use. But that's enough about the M2's looks. This car is all about the performance and, in my opinion, this is by far its best attribute. Under the hood of the BMW M2 lies an upgraded 3.0-litre engine that is capable of producing a whopping 480bhp. The M2 comes standard with an eight-speed M Steptronic gearbox, however, there is an optional six-speed manual gearbox for those old-school enthusiasts the like to have full control of the pocket rocket. As I mentioned earlier, the BMW M2 is, in my books, the best performance car (alongside the MINI GP) I have ever driven on a race track. It trumps its larger M3/4/5 siblings by a long shot in my books and I am no Lewis Hamilton. What I also love about the M2 too is that you can strip it right back from a high-performance car so that it can be used on a daily basis around town. The bad news is that the M2's price tag puts it out of reach for many of its massive fan club. The M240i xDrive comes with a starting price of just under €80k, which is almost €40k below the M2's starting price of €118,835. Way over my budget I'm afraid, even though I would love one.
