Skoda Octavia vRS Hits 202.15 MPH at Bonneville Flats

We here at autoevolution think that Skoda’s go-fast products are making a lot of sense. You have all the reliable Volkswagen components mixed in with a lot more practicality and then offered for a slightly more affordable price. To mark the passing of 10 years since the pick of the bunch - the Octavia vRS - has been available, a team of crack engineers have managed to 200 miles per hour (321.87 km/h) in a truly monstrous version of the regular car that your mom could drive.

The record run came four full days ahead of schedule, making this the fastest car to wear Skoda badges ever. In addition, the Skoda Bonneville team now focuses its attention on the ‘2.0-litre production car’ record of 216 mph.

The Octavia vRS achieved an impressive 195.69 mph (314.93 km/h) on its first run of the day.  On the car’s sixth official outing at Bonneville Speed Week (13-20), the Octavia vRS propelled itself to an impressive 202.15 mph (325.33 km/h).

“Months of rigorous planning, testing and preparation have all been worthwhile.  At 13:24 on Monday 15th August, we took our Octavia vRS past the 200 mph barrier.  The entire team has done an outstanding job.  Our special thanks go to Richard on an incredible drive,” said Robert Hazelwood, Director for Skoda UK.

“This marks another exciting milestone in the brand’s motorsport achievements and is a great way to celebrate 10 years of the vRS range and commemorate 110 years of Skoda’s participation in motorsport,” added Hazelwood.

The Octavia vRS Bonneville Special make use of the same engine block as the regular car, with the standard turbocharger replaced with a large unit from respected component firm Garrett.  Generating over 500 horsepower, this mean machine runs on high-octane race fuel (with water methanol mix) rather than unleaded petrol.