SKODA OCTAVIA VRS (MK4.5) Review

18/04/2025

Where Style Meets Spirit 

Editor : Mark K | Cars&TechSG

Unveiling the Ride

The Skoda Octavia vRS 2025 MK4.5 isn't just a car — it's a statement. It's not your normal fastback car. With razor-sharp handling, turbocharged power, and an updated look, this is where adrenaline meets everyday driveability. Get in, buckle up, and feel the vRS difference.

The 2025 MK4.5 facelift brings a fresh edge to the Skoda Octavia vRS, setting it apart from its predecessor with a more aggressive and modern front-end design. The updated grille is now wider and more angular, flanked by sleeker, next-gen Matrix LED headlights for a sharper visual signature. Redesigned air intakes and a more sculpted front bumper enhance both aerodynamics and presence.

Around the sides, the MK4.5 retains its athletic profile but refines it with new alloy wheel designs and subtle black trim enhancements. At the rear, slightly revised LED taillights, a sportier diffuser, and refined badging give the vRS an unmistakable road presence that feels both premium and performance-ready.

Compared to the MK4, the MK4.5 exudes a slightly more mature aggression — evolving from sharp to razor-like, making it clear that this isn't just a facelift — it's a statement.

Interior Impressions: 

Step inside the 2025 Skoda Octavia vRS MK4.5, and you're welcomed into a driver-focused cockpit that masterfully blends sporty flair with everyday luxury.

Right off the bat, the cabin feels like a significant step up from its predecessor. The centrepiece? A stunning new 13-inch floating infotainment display — frameless, ultra-responsive, and packing crisp visuals with seamless smartphone connectivity. It's modern, minimal, and definitely makes an impression.

Behind the wheel, the 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit now comes with vRS-exclusive layouts, offering clearer graphics and giving you real-time performance data and navigation cues right in your line of sight. It's not just eye candy — it's functionally sharp, too.

Compared to the MK4, the MK4.5 ups the game with some upgraded premium materials, enhanced ambient lighting, and redesigned sport seats featuring deeper side bolsters and sporty contrast stitching. The seats hug you just right — perfect for spirited drives, yet comfy enough for daily commutes around Singapore.

Rear passengers? No complaints there — ample legroom and headroom, with enough space to comfortably seat three adults across the back. True to Skoda's reputation, practicality hasn't taken a back seat.

In terms of features, you'll find wireless charging, a sleek shift-by-wire gear selector, and — importantly — physical shortcut buttons for key controls like climate, drive modes, and more. In an age where everything's going full touch, it's refreshing to see Skoda keeping physical buttons where they matter most. Love that they didn't forget what drivers actually want!

Storage is well thought out too. Two front cup holders, ample interior compartments, and a massive 600L boot at the rear — whether it's a Costco run, luggage for the airport, or a spontaneous IKEA haul, the Octavia vRS handles it all without breaking a sweat.

Finish it off with carbon-fibre-style accents, red detailing, and a flat-bottom perforated leather steering wheel, and you get a cabin that screams performance without forgetting comfort and class. It's the perfect harmony of motorsport-inspired design and everyday usability, tailor-made for Singapore's roads.

Drive Performance: 

The Skoda Octavia vRS MK4.5 rockets from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds – not bad at all for a practical family sedan with a serious performance twist. On Singapore roads, where quick overtakes and smooth expressway merges are part of daily life, this kind of acceleration feels especially satisfying.

Switch it into Sport mode, and you're greeted with a throaty exhaust note, complete with addictive vroomz and satisfying pops from the tailpipe – something you don't expect from a car that looks this composed. The steering feel is sharp, giving great road feedback, and cornering is tight and confident, making twisty roads like the South Buona Vista stretche an absolute joy.

That said, keep it in Sport mode all the time and you'll definitely notice a dip in fuel efficiency. With petrol prices in Singapore being what they are, your wallet might start feeling the burn if you're constantly chasing that sporty soundtrack and performance.

But overall, the vRS MK4.5 strikes a solid balance between performance and practicality – ideal for the Singaporean who enjoys spirited weekend drives without sacrificing weekday usability..

🔥 2025 Skoda Octavia vRS MK4.5 – Final Thoughts
A sleeper sedan that blends performance with practicality — but is it the right pick for you? 

Pros:

  • Performance Meets Practicality
    0–100 km/h in 6.5s with a spacious 600L boot — fun and family-ready.

  • High-End Features Without the High Price
    13" floating infotainment, Virtual Cockpit, wireless charging & quality materials — all at a non-premium price tag.

  • Driver-Centric Design
    Physical buttons where they matter, sporty flat-bottom wheel, ambient lighting — made for those who love to drive.

Cons:

  • Fuel Thirst in Sport Mode
    Engage Sport too often and you'll feel it at the pump — fun comes at a cost.

  • Plenty of Rivals at This Price
    Worth comparing with other options!

The Bottom Line:

The Skoda Octavia vRS MK4.5 offers a rare balance of usable performance, real-world comfort, intuitive physical controls, and ample space — all without venturing into luxury-brand pricing. In Singapore's current climate of rising COE prices and limited engine choices, the vRS stands out as a hidden gem for driving enthusiasts who don't want to compromise on practicality.

That said, keep it in Sport mode daily and you'll feel the pinch at the pump — but hey, that's the price of fun. At this price point, it really depends on what you're after, so it's worth comparing with other sporty sedans in the segment before making your pick.

Car Specifications 

Engine Capacity     : 1984cc

Fuel Consumption : 9.5KM/L During Media Drive

Power                      : 265BHP

Torque                    : 370 Nm

Century Sprint       : 6.5 secs

Range                      : Up to 440KM

Boot Capacity        : 600L

Road Tax                : $1194 Annually 

Official Website    : Skoda Singapore

Check out more images of the ride at our Instagram Page!