Supercars, News

Aston Martin Vulcan meets Avro Vulcan

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As the last remaining airworthy Avro Vulcan prepares for its final flight, the iconic 50s bomber meet its modern namesake, the Aston Martin Vulcan.

The Avro Vulcan XH558 is currently the only flying example in the world yet is retiring from 'active service' later this month as the age of the plane's airframe and engines mean the support companies which keep the bomber aloft have decided they have to end their support in October.

Aston Martin's Vulcan is the a new track-only supercar. Described as the British luxury car maker's 'most intense and exhilarating creation to date', the supercar is born out of 'extensive motorsport experience' as the 800-plus bhp, all-carbon fibre Aston Martin Vulcan delivers truly extreme performance. Limited to just 24 examples worldwide - owners have the opportunity to precisely tailor their track day experience through a graduating scale of detailed power and dynamic performance adjustments.

CEO Dr Andy Palmer said: "Clearly the Avro Vulcan provided the inspiration for the naming of our most extreme sports car, and I'm delighted that we have been able to unite the 'two Vulcans' and deliver our own tribute to this world-renowned aeronautical phenomenon."

Vulcan XH558 is flown by Martin Withers DFC, Chief Pilot and Operations Director. He said: "Being at the controls for this unique fly-past was a memorable occasion. Personally, it is great to know that the Vulcan name will live on not only in the history books, and at the new educational centre in Yorkshire, but via Aston Martin's incredible new sports car."

Following retirement the plane will form the centrepiece of the educational Vulcan Aviation Academy and Heritage Centre at her home base, Robin Hood Airport near Doncaster.

First deliveries of the track-only Aston Martin Vulcan to customers worldwide will take place before the end of 2015.

Estate Car, News

Ford Focus ST gets Mountune boost

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Ford Focus ST buyers now have the option of even more adrenalin with a new performance upgrade from engine tuners Mountune.

Mountune's kit increases the power output of the Ford Focus ST's 2.0 EcoBoost engine from 250 to 275PS and, when fitted by a Ford dealer, does not affect the vehicle warranty.

The Mountune upgrade kit comprises a large capacity alloy intercooler, low-loss cast crossover duct with silicone hose, high-flow dual-entry air filter and specially developed performance-map calibration. Its fitment not only produces a 10 per cent increase in maximum power output at 5,500rpm, but also an improvement in torque from 345Nm to 400Nm at 2,750rpm.

Kevin Griffin, Ford of Britain sales director said: "The 2015 Focus ST 275PS upgrade is the latest addition to a wide range of Ford Performance parts and accessories from Ford dealers. It enables Focus ST owners to experience even more impressive performance, while offering the reassurance that the upgrade will not affect warranties."

Mountune's MP275 upgrade kit costs £1,195 including VAT plus fitting, which takes two hours. The Ford Focus ST 5-door with 2.0 EcoBoost engine at £22,495 in ST-1 specification includes 18-inch alloy wheels, ST body styling, Recaro sports front seats with DAB radio and Ford SYNC including Bluetooth and voice control.

Coupe, News

BMW confirms pricing for M4 GTS

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BMW has revealed its fastest series-production BMW road car ever - the M4 GTS - will be priced at £121,770 OTR.

Limited to a production run of 700 cars, with only 30 coming to the UK, these M-badged cars deliver what BMW describe as 'the ultimate in sports-oriented design, power with efficiency and precise driving dynamics'. The M4 GTS is focused on track use, but meets all global regulations for use on public roads.

The fastest production road car the brand has ever offered to customers was developed and tested extensively at the Nurburgring, where it recorded a lap time of 7mins 28 secs - almost 30 seconds quicker than a standard M4. Engineered to provide an authentic motorsport-derived driving experience, agile and potent, BMW also says it offers precision handling and 'unprecedented levels' of feedback.

The German brand has added unique exterior design elements to 'demonstrate the performance credentials' of the car, which includes the world premiere of BMW's Organic Light with LED (OLED) lighting technology on a series-production model. Inside, the rear bench has been completely removed to save weight, leaving two front carbon-fibre sports seats.

Under the bonnet is an enhanced version of the 3.0-litre six-cylinder twin-turbo petrol engine, tuned to deliver 500hp. The result is a car which accelerates from 0 to 62mph in 3.8 seconds, and has a top speed limited to 190mph, while returning up to 34mpg on the combined cycle. With its lightweight design, the new BMW M4 GTS has a kerb weight of only 1,510kg.

The UK sales of 30 units equates to four per cent of the total, making Britain the fourth-largest market.

The M4 GTS will make its world debut at the Tokyo Motor Show on 28 October before production begins in March 2016, with launch scheduled for June 2016.

Saloon, News

Lexus builds life-size Origami Car

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Lexus has unveiled a replica IS saloon car, made from 1,700 fully recyclable laser-cut cardboard sheets.

Crafted from precision-cut cardboard, the Lexus Origami Car features a fully fitted interior, functioning doors and headlights, rolling wheels and, thanks to an electric motor mounted on its steel and aluminium frame, it can even be driven.

The skilled men and women - known as takumi - who work on the Lexus production lines hone their dexterity skills by learning how to fold paper into an origami model cat, using only their non-dominant hand. The Origami Car takes the spirit of this talent to a far higher level, while also embracing Lexus's new 'Creating Amazing' global brand campaign.

In terms of size and complexity, the project was undertaken by LaserCut Works and Scales and Models, London-based specialist companies with extensive experience in the design and creation of prototypes, architectural models and bespoke commissions.

Ruben Marcos, Scales and Models Company founder and director explained: "This was a very demanding job, with five people involved in the digital design, modelling, laser cutting and assembly. Just like Lexus, we were committed to producing the best possible quality."

The creative process presented the team with a series of tough challenges: "The seats took a few attempts to get just right and the wheels required a lot of refining. Once we could see the physical pieces taking shape, we could identify where we needed to make improvements - as with anything, there were some elements of trial and error, but as we had all the resources we needed in-house, this made the changes easier to produce."

Lexus provided the team with a digital 3D model of the IS, which was then divided into a series of principal parts, such as the main body, dashboard, seats and wheels. These were then digitally rendered in 10mm "slices" to provide the two-dimensional profiles needed for the laser cutting of each of the 1,700 sheets of 10mm-thick of cardboard - supplied by packaging experts DS Smith. Each layer was given its own reference number to help ensure it was assembled in the right sequence and the entire assembly was done by hand. A water-based/wood glue was used, which had to be left to set for 10 minutes after each application. Lexus says accuracy was vital, as changes couldn't be made once the glue had dried. In all, the Origami Car took three months to build.

"In effect we created our own vehicle production line," said Ruben. "There was a lot of repetition in the process and we had to work with military precision, just like the teams that make the real Lexus cars."

This unique vehicle will be revealed to the public at the Grand Designs Live Show at the NEC in Birmingham, from 8 October.

Family Car, Hatchback, News

Peugeot reveals 308 GTi pricing and spec

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Peugeot's GTi badge is returning to the medium car segment for the first time since the 1990s.

The high-end performance 308 GTi is designed with the 'enthusiastic driver' in mind, and will cost from £26,555 OTR.

Extensively developed by Peugeot SPORT - the brand's in-house tuning team - the hot hatch offers a new interpretation of the 308's exterior design, 'enhanced sports-oriented interior detailing and an unparalleled driving experience', according to the French manufacturer.

Driven by 'the most-powerful engine of its size', the 1.6-litre THP petrol engine with Stop&Start (S&S) technology is available in two power outputs - 250hp and 270hp. With a limited top speed of 155mph, the engines can return CO2 emissions of 139g/km and Combined Cycle fuel economy of 47.0mpg.

Both models weigh in at 1205kg, enabling the 308 GTi 250 to sprint to 62mph in 6.2 seconds, with a power-to-weight ratio of 4.82kg/hp. The 308 GTi 270 reaches 62mph in 6.0 seconds flat.

Key to the appeal of the 270 GTi, says Peugeot, is the Torsen limited-slip differential, fitted as standard. Designed to improve cornering by channeling the torque to the wheel with the greatest traction, it also makes it possible to drive faster around corners and enhance grip and handling.

The 270 GTi is also equipped with 2.3kg lighter 19" 'Carbone' lightweight alloy wheels shod with the latest Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres. The design showcases the highly-capable 380mm ventilated front brake discs with solid red four-piston Peugeot SPORT signature calipers.

The new model includes 'purposeful new styling' sitting 11mm lower to the ground than its siblings, an aggressive new front and rear design and six distinctive exterior colours. For the most eye-catching look a 'Coupe Franche' two-tone design is exclusive to the 308 GTi 270, contrasting Ultimate Red with Nera Black.

The interior has been designed to complement the GTi's exterior, emphasising its sporting credentials. The door sill carries the Peugeot SPORT and GTi signature, while the foot pedals, foot rest and gear knob are finished in aluminum. Red stitching features on the upholstery, door panels, gear lever and floor mats. The GTi 270 features Peugeot SPORT race-inspired seats, upholstered in leather effect and Alcantara, which provide enhanced lateral support.

The compact steering wheel provides natural grip and 'precise direction'. It features full-grain leather with a GTi logo at the base and a red centring mark at the top. The head-up display instrument panel read-outs has a chequered backdrop, and a GTi greets the driver on start-up. A 9.7" centrally mounted touch-screen forms part of the instrument panel, with its Redline theme adding a final touch of flair to the interior.

Standard equipment includes a Driver Sport Pack, which allows owners to 'ramp up the high-octane feel'. Pressing the Sport button on the centre console switches the display colour from white to red, and shows additional information on the central read-out. It also enhances engine noise growl and changes the accelerator pedal mapping.

Also standard is red 'Peugeot' lettering on the grille, sports side skirts, new twin exhaust system with black diffuser, GTi badging, full LED headlamps, front LED sequential indicators, reversing camera, front and rear parking sensors, Peugeot Open & Go (keyless entry & push button start), satellite navigation and DAB digital radio. The GTi 250 has 18-inch 'Diamant' alloy wheels while the GTi 270 the larger 19" 'Carbone' lightweight alloy wheels.

The Peugeot 308 GTi 250 is priced at £26,555 on the road, while the Peugeot 308 GTi 270 (which has more power, the Torsen differential, 19" wheels, larger front brakes and sports seats) is priced at £28,155. The Coupe Franche with Ultimate Red / Nera Black paint finish (exclusive to the GTi 270 model only) is £1,300.

Concept Car, Coupe, Sports Car, News

007's Aston Martin DB10 set for Regent Street Motor Show

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Following the premiere of the new Bond film Spectre, 007's latest car - the bespoke Aston Martin DB10 - will be one of the star attractions of the annual free-to-view Regent Street Motor Show in London.

Created specially for the movie, the hand-built DB10 is the latest in a long line of Aston Martins to have been driven by UK's favourite secret agent. Bond's first Aston was the famous DB5 from Goldfinger in 1964. As well as the DB10, Aston Martin will also be displaying a number of cars from its current model range including the latest DB9 GT, limited edition Vantage GT12 and a four-door Rapide S.

Enticing as many as 350,000 visitors last year, London's premier shopping street is closed to traffic for the day to allow cars from the past, present and future to be displayed. The Show's centrepiece will be a display of more than 100 veteran cars all taking part in the EFG International Concours d'Elegance. Many owners and their passengers will be in period costume, preparing themselves for the famous Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, which sets off from nearby Hyde Park early the following morning (Sunday, 1 November).

The veterans will be rubbing shoulders with classic cars, bikes, new cars and futuristic 'low or no' emission electric and hybrid vehicles. The latter display is backed by two organisations helping to shape our motoring future - Go Ultra Low and Transport for London (TfL).

The Regent Street Motor Show takes place from 10:30 until 16:00 on Saturday 31 October and is just one element in the Royal Automobile Club's London Motor Week, seven days when the capital honours cars.

Concept Car, News, Electric

Nissan Teatro for Dayz set to debut in Tokyo

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Nissan has previewed its 'Teatro for Dayz' ahead of a reveal at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show.

The innovative concept signals a new direction in mobile technology according to Nissan. Designed especially for the 'digital native generation', this vision of near-future vehicles 'departs from convention and marks a shift in perception'.

Nissan describes the target group as 'share natives' due to the nature of sharing on social media. The Teatro for Dayz is a combination of mobile technologies unlike any previously imagined in a car. Nissan's research indicated that minicars will be the vehicle of choice for share natives. "In addition to being compact, minicars remind them of the handy mobile devices they carry in their pockets," says Product Planning General Manager Hidemi Sasaki. Electric Vehicle (EV) technology is a must for this generation. "Share natives are already accustomed to recharging their devices at home, so EVs fit their lifestyles far better than cars that require regular visits to a gas station." With a driving range ample for short commutes, the concept can serve as a giant mobile battery, which can be used anywhere to recharge mobile devices.

Sasaki says that Nissan has identified some common car interests among share natives. "First, they tend to look beyond the car's basic role of transportation. They want a car to be a versatile tool for creativity like a smartphone. This is different from customising a car. It is more like the ability to modify a car to meet their mood at that moment. Share natives will use cars in ways we would never imagine. So we thought from the perspective of designing a car that would serve as a canvas for their inspiration."

From concept to interior and exterior design, the Teatro for Dayz is described as a simple, clean canvas. When the car is in drive mode, meters, controls and maps appear on a pure white instrument panel. As information illuminates on the white instrument panel, the driver can freely adjust the size and position of the meters, gauges and car navigation information on the instrument screen. Unnecessary information can be hidden.

When parked, the concept transforms into an entirely new device. The whole interior, starting with the instrument panel, becomes a live display for a generation wired for connectivity. The interior's design can be changed to match the look to the season, as can the exterior. Externally it is fitted with LED screens that enable further self-expression, with any experience in or around the car able to be shared instantly via an onboard camera. The solid white interior suggests infinite possibilities for display, as technology evolves and share natives contribute ideas through feedback, the variety of ways the interior could serve as a 'digital native theatre' will expand, says Nissan.

The Tokyo Motor Show opens to the public on October 30 to November 8.

Hybrid, Sports Car, Coupe, News

Order books open for all-new Lexus RC coupe

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Order books have opened for the new Lexus RC coupe.

Described as a 'full-blooded coupe', the two-door RC is available in the UK with two powertrains - the RC 300h full hybrid with 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, and the RC 200t, the latest model to adopt Lexus's 241bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine.

The entry level 'Luxury' grade is exclusive to the full hybrid RC 300h. Although it marks the entry point to the coupe range, it delivers a 'wealth of features' with key specifications including 18-inch alloys, cruise control, LED headlamps and daytime running lights, parking sensors, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, a six-speaker audio system with CD player, seven-inch multimedia screen with Remote Touch controller, power-adjustable front seats, leather upholstery, split-folding rear seat and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

The safety and driver assistance features include Lexus's Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, eight airbags, pop-up hood and Hill Assist Control with Brake Hold. The RC further benefits from Lexus's Drive Mode Select, which adjusts performance to suit conditions or driver preference, with Eco, Normal and Sport modes. Prices start at £34,995.

Moving up the range, the 'F Sport' models receive added visual enhancements with a 'stronger iteration of the Lexus spindle grille', plus multi-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels, deep front and rear bumpers and LED headlights in a signature 'triple L' arrangement (with Automatic High Beam function). In the cabin there are F Sport front seats that are power-adjustable with heating/ventilation, driver's side memory setting and automatic 'easy access' function. Other F Sport elements include aluminium scuff plates and sports pedals and LFA-style meters that automatically change appearance according to the drive mode selected.

The F Sport models also feature Adaptive Variable Suspension and, on the 200t F Sport, a limited-slip differential. The Drive Mode Select system adds a fourth, Sport+ mode which introduces additional chassis control for an even sportier drive. Other key equipment features include rain-sensing windscreen wipers, rear-view camera and Lane Keep Assist. Prices start at £36,495 for the RC 200t F Sport.

At the top of the RC range, the 'Premier' grade models go even further, adding to the standard features of Luxury with the addition of 19-inch alloys, Lexus Premium Navigation, 17-speaker Mark Levinson surround audio system, the triple-L LED headlights with Automatic High Beam function, power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats with driver's side memory setting, power steering wheel adjustment, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert , Lane Keep Assist and a rear-view camera. Prices start at £39,495 for the RC 200t Premier.

In addition, the RC F, introduced in late 2014, remains available as a high performance iteration of the coupe, powered by Lexus's 471bhp 5.0-litre V8 engine.

The new Lexus RC is available to order now, with first customer deliveries in January 2016.

Sports Car, Vintage Car, News, Convertible

Classic Cars assemble at Alexandra Palace

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With just weeks to go until the doors open on Classic & Sports Car - The London Show, the organisers have assembled six iconic cars in front of the show's historic venue - Alexandra Palace.

Previewing the main event, which will take place from 30 October to 1 November, an Aston Martin DB4GT, Ferrari 250GT California Spider, Jaguar E-type Roadster, Mercedes-Benz 300SL 'Gullwing', 1973 Pontiac Trans Am and Porsche 993 Carrera RS appeared in all their glory outside Alexandra Palace, which first opened in 1873. 

These classic cars are a small selection of the 300 or so which will be on display, with stands featuring historic machines from world-famous collectors and world-renowned classic car retailers - all under one roof. 

Classic & Sports Car - The London Show will also feature a number of high-profile themes in its first year, as well as some exciting exhibits.

Key attractions include a 'Best of British' theme, the Aston Martin celebration, a display of Sir Stirling Moss single-seaters and the Live Interview stage.

James Elliott, Classic & Sports Car magazine group editor, said: "The six cars that gathered recently in the sunshine in front of Alexandra Palace really captured the spirit of what we think the inaugural Classic & Sports Car - The London Show is all about... I'm hugely excited by the prospect of the show's special attractions and demonstrations and look forward to welcoming like-minded enthusiasts to be part of such a convivial atmosphere." 

To book tickets, visit www.classicandsportscarshow.com or call 0844 581 1275.

Hatchback, Convertible, News

DS Automobiles targets Westfield's luxury label shoppers

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DS Automobiles will be displaying its latest models to shoppers at London's Westfield shopping centre in Shepherd's Bush over the next 6 months.

Keen to emphasise that the marque's style draws upon expertise from non-automotive fields like haute-couture fashion, leather-making and jewellery, the DS Automobiles display is positioned at the entrance to The Village - Westfield's luxury shopping hub - alongside some of the world's most renowned fashion brands, including Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Burberry, as well as up-and-coming new designers such as Anya Hindmarch. 

Shoppers will be able to get up close to the new DS 5 as well as the latest DS 3 Dark Light Limited Edition, while a team of DS Automobiles staff will be on hand to answer any questions or assist users via an interactive touch-screen display. Inspired by the brand's flagship dealership and showcase centre, DS World Paris, there will also be a range of exclusive branded merchandise on sale.

Mark Blundell, UK Marketing Director of the DS Brand commented; "Westfield is one of the world's premier shopping destinations, making it the perfect backdrop for DS. Visitors to Westfield London will have an exclusive opportunity to explore the world of DS Automobiles in a relaxing environment, surrounded by the very best in premium retailing."

DS Automobiles will be on display at Westfield London, Shepherd's Bush for the next 6 months. Taking in the festive season, Westfield estimates around 12 million visitors will pass through the shopping centre during the period.

Sports Car, News

Porsche reveals Cayman Black Edition

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Joining the all-in-black special series which already includes the Boxster and the 911 Carrera, Porsche has unveiled the new Black Edition Cayman.

Distinguished by a combination of a black paint finish and black partial leather interior, the Cayman Black Edition also features additional special equipment fitted as standard.

Powered by the 2.7-litre flat-six engine developing 275 hp, the Black edition rides on 20-inch Carrera Classic wheels with wider tyres, which are said to boost the Cayman's dynamic chassis responses. Further highlights include Bi-Xenon headlights with PDLS (Porsche Dynamic Light System) and optional side window trims in aluminium. 

Special standard equipment includes the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) with satellite navigation (with Online services featuring real-time traffic information), automatic anti-dazzle rear view mirrors, rain sensor, cruise control, front and rear ParkAssist and a Sport Design steering wheel. 

An upgraded Sound Package Plus audio system, two-zone climate control, heated seats and Bluetooth phone connectivity complete the equipment list for this special edition of Porsche's mid-engined, two-seat sports coupé.

The Cayman Black Edition is on sale now in Porsche Centres, priced from £45,989 RRP.

It comes with a three year warranty and three year roadside assistance package and a complimentary course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone, where customers can safely explore the car's full performance potential.

Vintage Car, Saloon, Convertible, News

BCA to sell Morris Minor again - after 35 years

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A classic 1957 Morris Minor last sold by BCA in 1980 has returned to the company to be sold once again.

The 2-door Morris Minor was sold at the former BCA Frimley centre in 1980 by the original owner who had bought it as a new car in 1957. The buyer in 1980 is now returning to BCA to sell the car for only the second time in nearly sixty years, at BCA Blackbushe on 14 October. Included in the paperwork is the 1980 BCA purchase invoice, confirming that the car originally sold for £680. 

The Morris Minor is finished in black with a red leather interior and is being sold with a large number of original spares including a pair of boxed 'as new' Lucas semaphore indicators, various service parts, Morris badges, carpets, new floor panels, chrome overriders and a complete set of spare wheels. The car also retains its original period number plate 1351 HK. Largely original throughout, the car requires some gentle restoration to return to its former glories and would, BCA suggest, make a great project for an enthusiast. 

Blackbushe centre manager James Gibson said: "This is a genuine two-owner from new car that BCA last sold 35 years ago. We are delighted that this stalwart of British roads from the fifties has made its way back to BCA ready for its next owner. Potential owners will recognise that this is a great opportunity to acquire a very original example of this iconic car, with a well-documented history, genuine mileage and an extensive set of spares that will be invaluable for restoring the car. We expect lots of interest and strong bidding on the day."

The 1957 Morris Minor goes for sale at BCA Blackbushe on Wednesday 14 October at 11.00 am. For more details and an online catalogue listing visit www.bca.co.uk

4x4, Diesel, Hatchback, Estate Car, News

Skoda Octavia vRS adds 4x4 option

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Skoda is giving its sporting flagship Octavia vRS line-up a specification boost with a new 4x4 transmission option.

Offered with the 2.0 TDI 184PS diesel engine and mated to a six-speed direct-shift gearbox (DSG) as standard, the vRS' four-wheel drive system constantly monitors traction at each wheel, directing power to whichever axle requires it.


The vRS 4x4 models can sprint from zero to 62mph in 7.6 seconds and deliver peak torque of 380Nm between 1,750-3,250 rpm.


From 1 November, prices for the Octavia vRS range start from £24,230 OTR for the Hatch and £25,430 OTR for the Estate, an increase of £400, however, buyers will get the Amundsen satellite navigation system as standard (previously £755), offering a customer saving of £355.


With a capacitive touchscreen display and SD card slot, the Amundsen unit joins a specification list that includes 18-inch Gemini anthracite alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, sports suspension and dual-zone climate control with humidity sensor.


Engineering highlights include multi-link suspension and electronic differential lock XDS+ for dynamic cornering, progressive steering and numerous assistance systems for enhanced safety and comfort. The vRS also features a bespoke design package that includes unique bumpers, spoiler and interior.


The updated Octavia vRS 4x4 range hits showrooms later this year, priced from £27,315 OTR for the Hatch and £28,515 OTR for the Estate.