Fabia vRS review

Think it's a pretty good review - good detail, and the journalist isn't as egocentric as others...

Nice pictures too...like the look of the seats.

Rob.

Good spot, Rob

BUT, my eyes may have been deceiving me, but the alloys on the main piccie looked like 17s to me, not 16s. Anyone reckon they stuck some 17s on just for the piccie, to make it look more sporty?

I like the seats too - thats the first time I've seen the inside. The one problem with this is I'm going to have real trouble turning one down when I test drive it soon... :(

PS: Did I also see 136bhp quoted, not 130? I like the bits they've added like beefier brakes and anti-roll stuff. I can see myself forcing the wallet to get one now! Stick on my wheels and be away.

They look like 16s to me, but then you're more familiar with 17s on a Fabia than I am...

VAG performance figures always do seem a tad on the conservative side, as the Octavia vRS seems to be turning out slightly more than 180bhp. The brakes and anti-roll stuff should make it a fun car to drive, even if the power delivery might turn out to be unsporty!

Rob.

Well - I only thought that because the tyres looked like the same profile as mine, i.e 40. I would have thought 16" alloys would be wrapped by some 50 profile tyres? Anyway - don't trust me - I need glasses for driving, so my eyesight is NOT to be relied upon!

The idea of BIG brakes at the front appeals -especially the infamous green calipers. Although I have never had any issues with stopping quickly, even with my standard set-up. I think if I treated roundabouts like Jon a few times though, they'd soon find their limit. Looking forward to Aug 31 for a bit of a roundabout refresher course.

Think they look like 16" btw mine are 45 profile.

Love the look of the seats.

Regarding the brakes - I've got my fingers crossed that they are standard Fabia calipers with a different carriers on them to accomodate the larger discs.

Hopefully an easy upgrade, as I dont think the standard Fab brakes are quite up to the job.

Wonder how much the ARBs would be?

One thing I cant work out is why its well over 100kgs heavier than a Fabia Tdi?

I have always been impressed by the brakes on the Fabia. The bite is quite good and they are good for 4 discs in that they allow smooth, progressive braking and aren't harsh like some with all round discs.