Skoda officially unveiled the performance version of its Laura brand in Delhi yesterday badged vRS. Changes are more cosmetic than mechanical on the new addition. The engine is the same 1.8 TSI unit from the regular Laura.
The vRS version differs from the regular Laura by sporting the following features
- Sporty Alcantara leather seats with vRS signature
- 3-spoke multi function steering (no audio controls on it)
- 6 speed manual transmission
- 16’ alloy wheels
- Aerodynamic rear spoiler
- Chromed dual exhaust
- Xenon curve projector headlights with dynamic leveling and corner function
- Front fog lights and LED daytime running lamps
- 4 shades – Sprint Yellow, Race Blue, Candy White and Magic Black
The car is priced at 15.49 lakh rupees (ex showroom Delhi).
The latter part of the event took place in an open ground where the media was given an opportunity to be driven, yes, ‘driven’ in the car for about two minutes by professional racing drivers. We would have loved to get behind the wheel to experience the car first hand but due to the large number of attendees, the process would have been cumbersome.
- Skoda said that the reason they did not bring the 2.0 L version into India (European spec vRS) is because the 2.0 L runs on 95 Octane petrol which is not easily available in India. The cost of the 2.0 L would have been much higher killing the price competitiveness.
- The company has no plans to bring the vRS diesel in India which again is available in the European markets.
- The red color popular with the Octavia in India has not been brought for the time being as market research shows that consumer preferences have changed with time.
- The company is not looking for big numbers with the car as its more of a collectors item or enthusiast's toy.
- The car carries a racing heritage and is targeted for the young performance enthusiast who wants an affordable and practical car.
The Laura vRS is not a mass market car. For those who are looking for a spirited drive under 20 lakh rupees, it fits the bill perfectly.
