After running around in a 1.4TDI (80BHP) Fabia estate for the best part of 2 weeks, it's only now I really apreciate the vRS's torque and general driveability.

The 1.4 struggled to accelerate below 2000rpm and powerband is probably 2500-4000rpm. Overall lethargic is how I'd describe it!

The vRS on the other hand pulls from below 1500rpm, making it a far more forgiving and relaxing drive (much fewer gear changes!). The vRS just seems a doddle to drive in comparision.

I've had and continue to have a lot niggly problems with my vRS but everytime I drive it I can't help but think it's a great little car.

Horses for courses and all that. I have a Fabia vRS and a previous gen Polo with the 1.4 TDi (75BHP) motor. On long motorway journeys at the same cruising speed the Fabia does 400 miles whilst the Polo does 530 miles on the same amount of fuel. I know what you mean about lethargy though, 1.4 slow to get going, but once there is OK.

Also don't discount the 1.9 (PD100) as I found that very relaxing too, 5 speed box Elegance spec I drove, less of a 'kick' but it has plenty of shove through a wider rev range.

Not driven the 1.4 but the Fabia is a pretty heavy car so that would probably be about the minimum I'd go for. That said it will cruise at speed, just not get up to it as quickly

less of a 'kick' but it has plenty of shove through a wider rev range.

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