Following the successful Mk1 Octavia vRS could have proved a hard job, but the Mk2 comfortably delivered on expectations. The Mk2 model was just as versatile as the first, but packed better handling and a 200hp 2.0 TFSI turbocharged engine lifted from the Mk5 VW Golf GTI. At launch in 2005 it was Skoda's most powerful car, and could be bought as an £18,200 estate or a £17,500 hatchback.
Definitely not a taxi. Honest
Built on the VW's PQ35 platform the comprehensive spec included 17-inch alloy wheels, ESP, fog lights, sports seats, an air conditioned glovebox and a CD auto-changer, while the 149mph top speed and 7.3-second 0-62mph time was quicker than the Golf GTI. The standard transmission was a six-speed manual, but buyers could opt for a DSG transmission instead if they preferred.
The growing demand for a diesel version saw Skoda release a 170hp 2.0 TDI engine option from 2006 with a serious 258lb ft of torque 49mpg combined economy. A common-rail version of the TDI engine was made available from May 2008.
2009 saw the model facelifted with a sharper front end and a more upmarket feel to the cabin along with revised engines for both the diesel and petrol models - with a 2.0 TSI replacing the 2.0 TFSI unit. And a limited edition Octavia vRS was launched too - with just 500 individually-numbered cars boasting 18-inch alloys, leather seats, climate, cruise control plus a touch screen CD auto-changer. By 2013 UK buyers had bought a whopping 16,640 examples of the Mk2 Octavia vRS, with the hatchback out-selling the estate by three to one.
Quality markedly improved from Mk1
Tony Taylor sums up the Mk2's improvement over the Mk1: "The increase in quality was tangible. And thanks to engine sharing, tuning options are readily available. On the down side though, entry in to the company car sector means that many have covered high mileages - and white ones can be mistaken for a taxi."
That said they represent good value compared to their VW and Audi cousins, and as Rupert Pontin confirms "With subtle changes to the suspension and engine that resulted in a more responsive, communicative and rewarding drive, demand-wise there is still a desire for the second generation."
So although late-plate examples have fallen in value following the arrival of the Mk3 vRS, they are still coveted cars: "Resale values of the Mk2 pre-facelift 2.0 TFSI are holding strong," according to Paul Farenden.
Both engines easily tuneable
Those considering buying a diesel vRS though should bear in mind that the DPF filters can be problematic though, both on the earlier PD and later more sought-after common-rail units - which are capable of being tuned to 220bhp with a simple remap.
Paul recommends that petrolheads should seek out a facelifted 2.0TSI, with the EA888 chain-driven engine from the Mk6 Golf GTI. "This offers huge tuning potential, with 380hp possible with relatively little investment."
Buy if: you're seeking value for money or intend to tune your vRS
Don't buy if: you're after a long-term classic or residuals are important
We found: 2007 Blue 2.0 TFSI vRS hatchback, full service history, 83K miles, £4,951
Price Guide
Poor: Under £3,500
Good: £3,500 to £11,000
A1: £11,000+
Special Editions: Limited Edition Octavia vRS attracts a £500 to £1,000 premium
