Skoda plans to reintroduce the Fabia vRS hot hatch in 2010 – and this prototype appears to be the warmed-over mini out on test, that to be expecting the go-faster Fabia next year, possibly at the Geneva motor show in March 2010.


Close analysis of these spy photos reveals a new front spoiler lurking under the disguise; the aero aids are noticeably honed and the air intakes much bigger. All the better for ramming air into the turbocharged engine.

Skoda Fabia vRS (2010): the engine bay

Will the new Fabia vRS sport a turbodiesel like the last one? We're not clear yet. But sticking a derv in a hot hatch's engine bay does limit its appeal to many enthusiasts.

The new vRS to offer a petrol option this time. The VW Group has a variety of downsized unleaded munchers, the warmed-up Ibiza Cupra and Polo GTI will be powered by a twincharged 1.4-litre with around 170bhp.

It seems logical to assume the Fabia vRS will have similar firepower. The four-cylinder engine comes in either turbocharged or turbo- and supercharged forms and would be perfect for providing thrills in a front-drive supermini package. Skoda isn't restricted from the group's more powerful motors and the Octavia vRS is still available in petrol and diesel form.






[Source : CAR On-line]