My missus and I need to change our old hatch for an estate (toddlers + stuff) and pretty set on an Octavia however currently at an impasse decision wise.

Looking at a 2019 VRS (petrol/manual 50000miles) and also at some 2024 1.5 TSI SE Tech. The VRS is about £3k cheaper at £17k.

One of us thinks we should go for the newer car, still has 2 years manufacturer warranty and all the latest tech etc however the other wants the sportier/less economical VRS. Will be our main family car and plans are to keep it until it gives up the ghost rather than switch it out in 3/4 years time.

Feel like I've spent so long looking and test driving cars now just need some independent thoughts!

How many miles a year you do ? 50k is average for 6 years i would go for the Vrs if you like it and it suits

4 minutes ago, Redestate said:

How many miles a year you do ? 50k is average for 6 years i would go for the Vrs if you like it and it suits

Thanks for quick reply! 8-10k probably if we average it over next 4 years. Commute varies year by year as have to move work location. Part of the reason for getting now is to start doing longer drives for holidays to France etc rather than flying.

I had a 2015 vRS Estate and loved it. Might not be as comfortable as you think as a family wagon. With our worsening roads, I’d be more tempted by the 1.5 which will have a bigger sidewall on the tyres, so a bit better on potholes and duff road surfaces.

Gaz

9 hours ago, Gaz said:

I had a 2015 vRS Estate and loved it. Might not be as comfortable as you think as a family wagon. With our worsening roads, I’d be more tempted by the 1.5 which will have a bigger sidewall on the tyres, so a bit better on potholes and duff road surfaces.

Gaz

That's a pretty good consideration I hadn't thought about

From a purely practical point of view as you plan on keeping it for the long run I would go for the lower mileage 2024 SE Tech, as you already say it's still got 2 years manufacturers warranty (which you could extend when the time comes), lower mileage, cheaper on fuel/tyres insurance etc, latest tech.

The vRS already has 50k on the clock so in the long run it will probably cost more on maintenance sooner than you might think as things wear out in a year or two, brakes, suspension, maybe clutch and so on. The SE Tech will also give the family a softer more comfortable ride than the vRS - useful when the little ones need to get some sleep in the car.

When the 'toddlers' have grown up and left home (yes, I know it's a long time off) and you have more spare cash go for the 2050 vRS (if there is such a thing by then!).

Rather than looking at the merits of the cars from a family perspective, let me offer some thoughts on the performance side of things.

They are very different cars. The 1.5 is going nowhere fast, whereas the vRS is quite quick. It's nothing special, but it's just a bit more than average, whereas the 1.5 is just another car.

If it's a 245 then it'll have a limited slip differential and big brakes - if not, then it'll still have big brakes at the front, but no diff and slightly less power. Either way, a 245bhp 2.0 and a 150bhp 1.5 aren't really comparable engines. Going manual is an interesting choice - it removes the aspect of DSG servicing but, if I'm honest, doesn't suit the car very well. I think if you want a manual, then something like a GTI or ST is more up your street.

You won't be able to put anything smaller than a 17" wheel on the vRS, however the 18s are perfectly reasonable. I can't say I've thought about ride quality for more than two seconds, but I am a lot younger than most on here!

With regard to trips to France, something that hasn't been mentioned on here is the ability of the vRS to do a better job. Let me explain. I've done similar journeys in a few cars (Scotland, France, even Italy) and found there are some issues with using a smaller engine. When empty all of the cars are very good (okay, the vRS is significantly better at overtaking, but my 150ps Leon wasn't bad at all, and even the old 1.4 A3 did the job). The issue came when the cars were loaded - either with people, or stuff. In the Skoda, I can't tell a difference. I can have four people and all their junk, and still be able to pass anyone I wish. The Leon... wasn't fantastic. Pulling out of short slip roads on the A1 was a bit of a challenge. It was doable, but it wasn't brilliant. That said, the Leon was a 2016 hatchback and quite a bit lighter than an Octavia. I would imagine the 1.5 Octavia to be similar to the Audi which, when heavy, was a bit of a job to get moving.

Of course, still like fuel costs, running costs, maintenance costs - you know about. the 1.5 is newer, has more tech, will be cheaper to run and will be more comfortable. But it's just a car. The vRS is older, has less stuff (depends what you get - my 2020 has ACC, digital dash and everything I could want from a newer car, whilst still having buttons for the a/c) and will cost more, but is significantly better to drive in every aspect.

If I'm honest, have you driven both? if it was between say, a 1.4 or 1.8 Leon I could understand, but if you want the drive of a 2.0 vRS then the 1.4 just isn't in the picture. Similarly, if you want the tech, modernity and comfort of the 1.5 then the vRS also shouldn't be in the picture.

My vRS is the best car I've driven. It's nowhere near the fastest, largest, cheapest, best to drive, etc, but it just does such a good job of everything, it's unbelievable.

Hi.

If you need any help with insurance at all then please feel free to drop me a line.

Regards,

Dan.

On 10/08/2025 at 19:15, OccyVRS said:

Rather than looking at the merits of the cars from a family perspective, let me offer some thoughts on the performance side of things.

They are very different cars. The 1.5 is going nowhere fast, whereas the vRS is quite quick. It's nothing special, but it's just a bit more than average, whereas the 1.5 is just another car.

If it's a 245 then it'll have a limited slip differential and big brakes - if not, then it'll still have big brakes at the front, but no diff and slightly less power. Either way, a 245bhp 2.0 and a 150bhp 1.5 aren't really comparable engines. Going manual is an interesting choice - it removes the aspect of DSG servicing but, if I'm honest, doesn't suit the car very well. I think if you want a manual, then something like a GTI or ST is more up your street.

You won't be able to put anything smaller than a 17" wheel on the vRS, however the 18s are perfectly reasonable. I can't say I've thought about ride quality for more than two seconds, but I am a lot younger than most on here!

With regard to trips to France, something that hasn't been mentioned on here is the ability of the vRS to do a better job. Let me explain. I've done similar journeys in a few cars (Scotland, France, even Italy) and found there are some issues with using a smaller engine. When empty all of the cars are very good (okay, the vRS is significantly better at overtaking, but my 150ps Leon wasn't bad at all, and even the old 1.4 A3 did the job). The issue came when the cars were loaded - either with people, or stuff. In the Skoda, I can't tell a difference. I can have four people and all their junk, and still be able to pass anyone I wish. The Leon... wasn't fantastic. Pulling out of short slip roads on the A1 was a bit of a challenge. It was doable, but it wasn't brilliant. That said, the Leon was a 2016 hatchback and quite a bit lighter than an Octavia. I would imagine the 1.5 Octavia to be similar to the Audi which, when heavy, was a bit of a job to get moving.

Of course, still like fuel costs, running costs, maintenance costs - you know about. the 1.5 is newer, has more tech, will be cheaper to run and will be more comfortable. But it's just a car. The vRS is older, has less stuff (depends what you get - my 2020 has ACC, digital dash and everything I could want from a newer car, whilst still having buttons for the a/c) and will cost more, but is significantly better to drive in every aspect.

If I'm honest, have you driven both? if it was between say, a 1.4 or 1.8 Leon I could understand, but if you want the drive of a 2.0 vRS then the 1.4 just isn't in the picture. Similarly, if you want the tech, modernity and comfort of the 1.5 then the vRS also shouldn't be in the picture.

My vRS is the best car I've driven. It's nowhere near the fastest, largest, cheapest, best to drive, etc, but it just does such a good job of everything, it's unbelievable.

Thank you for your very considered repl. I agree completely about the "a car" and VRS distinction, and was struggling to explain it to the other half. I have also driven a couple standard Octavias and an older diesel DSG. Not sure why but I just prefer manuals.

In the end we've sorted of met halfway. Going to test drive a newer VRS with extended/approved skoda warranty next week... think the missus thinks that I'll just keep hankering/wondering about what might have been if we go for a "normal" Octavia - she knows me too well!

What year are you looking at?

Mine is a very late model Mk3.5 (2020). I spent long and hard deciding over a 3.5 or a 4 - both have their merits.

On 10/08/2025 at 18:59, cnc said:

From a purely practical point of view as you plan on keeping it for the long run I would go for the lower mileage 2024 SE Tech, as you already say it's still got 2 years manufacturers warranty (which you could extend when the time comes), lower mileage, cheaper on fuel/tyres insurance etc, latest tech.

The vRS already has 50k on the clock so in the long run it will probably cost more on maintenance sooner than you might think as things wear out in a year or two, brakes, suspension, maybe clutch and so on. The SE Tech will also give the family a softer more comfortable ride than the vRS - useful when the little ones need to get some sleep in the car.

When the 'toddlers' have grown up and lef

It's Mk4 2022 done about 25k miles. I did look at a late 19 diesel and was happy with the tech in it to be honest. but as we don't switch cars often , and hoping to keep for a very long time, as @cnc commented above thought having something a little younger might last a bit longer before having to do anything big. Famous last words there.

Do you know anywhere to find a clear idea of what should have been done/services etc or any particular things to look out for? Been reading obviously about infotainment glitches and the engine cover recalls etc however having checked this one out on vcheck/DVLA couldn't find anything concerning remotely.

10 minutes ago, OccyVRS said:

What year are you looking at?

Mine is a very late model Mk3.5 (2020). I spent long and hard deciding over a 3.5 or a 4 - both have their merits.

8 hours ago, wc8245 said:

Do you know anywhere to find a clear idea of what should have been done/services etc or any particular things to look out for? Been reading obviously about infotainment glitches and the engine cover recalls etc however having checked this one out on vcheck/DVLA couldn't find anything concerning remotely.

It has probably been on variable servicing (longlife) since new, if this is the case it should have had at least one full service, or if it's on fixed servicing it is due it's third service at about 28k miles. Skoda may say it is due a brake fluid change and air con service at three years old (I would leave the air con service if it still blows cold). A Skoda dealer, or the seller, should be able to give you a print out of the car service history. Has it had it's first MOT?. Good luck with whatever you decide on.

23 minutes ago, cnc said:

It has probably been on variable servicing (longlife) since new, if this is the case it should have had at least one full service, or if it's on fixed servicing it is due it's third service at about 28k miles. Skoda may say it is due a brake fluid change and air con service at three years old (I would leave the air con service if it still blows cold). A Skoda dealer, or the seller, should be able to give you a print out of the car service history. Has it had it's first MOT?. Good luck with whatever you decide on.

Thank you, yep it's had first MOT, and they are doing another one this weekend/next week as due in <6 months. Have told me serviced at dealer in 23 + 24 but I don't know if they were "full" or not. They are doing another one of those too as due <6 months.

On 10/08/2025 at 08:36, wc8245 said:

My missus and I need to change our old hatch for an estate (toddlers + stuff) and pretty set on an Octavia however currently at an impasse decision wise.

Looking at a 2019 VRS (petrol/manual 50000miles) and also at some 2024 1.5 TSI SE Tech. The VRS is about £3k cheaper at £17k.

One of us thinks we should go for the newer car, still has 2 years manufacturer warranty and all the latest tech etc however the other wants the sportier/less economical VRS. Will be our main family car and plans are to keep it until it gives up the ghost rather than switch it out in 3/4 years time.

Feel like I've spent so long looking and test driving cars now just need some independent thoughts!

TL:DR Buy the vRS.

There's so much to consider and we all have different preferences and priorities.

The vRS will cost more to run. Pretty much everything will cost more: Tyres, fuel use, insurance, servicing, etc.

The vRS will be more fun to drive. It's not just a bigger engine and more go, there's a load of differences that combine to make the vRS a hoot to drive, but the extra near 100HP is not to be sniffed at either.

The vRS won't be as comfortable to live with. It's set up to be sporty and practical, but it's definitely going to be less comfortable than the SE Tech.

The vRS will likely depreciate less than the SE Tech.

With that desirability comes additional risk. 'Orrible scrotes will covet your vRS and if you have to park it on the road in a dodgy area, mind how you go. Especially if you have keyless entry.

Beyond that, the better ergonomics of the MK3.5 vRS over the MK4 touch-screen for everything (slight exaggeration) should not be under-estimated.

The vRS can be chugged around fairly happily without having to work hard to keep your speed up, but the downside to that (I may get some aggro for this), is that if you fancy a thrash around, the vRS may actually be a bit too much.

I'll explain: I have the use of two cars. A 2.0 Octavia TSI SE L remapped to about 230hp, and a Fiesta 1.6 with about 120hp.

I can thrash the pants off the Fiesta at relatively sensible speeds.

The only time I really give the Octavia full throttle is on motorway slip roads.

Bottom line, I don't think you'd regret buying the vRS.

You might bemoan the costs and the occasional bumpy ride, and worry about getting it nicked, but it will put a smile on your face that the 1.5 MK4 cannot.

You'll never forget the vRS.

10 hours ago, wc8245 said:

It's Mk4 2022 done about 25k miles. I did look at a late 19 diesel and was happy with the tech in it to be honest. but as we don't switch cars often , and hoping to keep for a very long time, as @cnc commented above thought having something a little younger might last a bit longer before having to do anything big. Famous last words there.

Do you know anywhere to find a clear idea of what should have been done/services etc or any particular things to look out for? Been reading obviously about infotainment glitches and the engine cover recalls etc however having checked this one out on vcheck/DVLA couldn't find anything concerning remotely.

My vRS is, again, the most well-rounded and balanced car I've driven.

@Ootohere will confirm, but I think aside from the annual servicing, the only think you need to check out is that the VAQ (differential) was serviced at 20,000 miles. The engine cover was VAG wide - bit annoying but is what it is. Ditto with MIB3.

I wanted a Mk4 for the Matrix and better interior. I bought a Mk3.5 for everything else. I just couldn't get on with the lack of buttons. Mine does have the digi dash and everything.

1 hour ago, OccyVRS said:

My vRS is, again, the most well-rounded and balanced car I've driven.

@Ootohere will confirm, but I think aside from the annual servicing, the only think you need to check out is that the VAQ (differential) was serviced at 20,000 miles. The engine cover was VAG wide - bit annoying but is what it is. Ditto with MIB3.

I wanted a Mk4 for the Matrix and better interior. I bought a Mk3.5 for everything else. I just couldn't get on with the lack of buttons. Mine does have the digi dash and everything.

Thanks will check the VAQ. At a bit over 3yo and 26k hopefully they'll be doing it's extended scope + will clarify if the VAQ has been done. Night email them now to ask them to ensure it's done.

Also had the same thought about buttons, but sometimes just got to make a final decision and live with it!

The thing is, this will be my last car with buttons. I just couldn't justify the extra £4,500 for a car I liked less!

Could be worse, could be like a Polo hire car I had, with stupid touch sensitive steering wheel buttons.

7 minutes ago, OccyVRS said:

The thing is, this will be my last car with buttons. I just couldn't justify the extra £4,500 for a car I liked less!

Could be worse, could be like a Polo hire car I had, with stupid touch sensitive steering wheel buttons.

Ha yeah and that's why I've gone for a manual too, before long it'll all be electric autos:(

Thanks to all for this discussion. We went for a nice long test drive (an hour with both of us taking turns) in the VRS.

Fell in love and now very happy VRS owners! Looking forward to many adventures. Now to go find a Faraday box/pouch to keep it safe from keyless robbers

I'd buy the newest car you can find with the lowest miles.

Your comparison is between apples and bananas.

Also if you want a pokey estate look at the VW's as they have engines with a better state of tune. VRS is a nice car but from experience (we also have a golf R) how many days are you really going to use the extra performance?