Change is good

Change is apparently something we're all looking for, because that will bring us everything we want. At least it does if you subscribe to the notion that perfection is possible but for the rest of us back on Planet Earth, change for change's sake is a waste of time.

In pictures: Skoda Octavia vRS

You can apply this sound logic to the Skoda Octavia, now available in facelifted form. It might not be immediately apparent that a great deal has changed if you approach from the rear. Revised lights are the only giveaway and there's the option of a new style 18in alloy wheel too. Stroll around to the front however, and you're greeted with a slick and handsome nose. Not only is it more aerodynamic and incorporates Superb-style lights with the option of Xenons but it has real character now, whereas before it was too anonymous for its own good.

It's a car that deserves to be noticed too, because it blends such a range of features that almost anyone could be happy behind the wheel. For starters, choose the Estate version as tested here and there's 1,655 litres of load space at the back contained within that stylish exterior. This is a performance car based on a very practical one, and you lose none of that practicality when you go down the vRS route. The tailgate is wide and opens well out of the way, while lashing eyes and a proper load cover to keep your belongings out of sight.

Occupants in the back and in the passenger seat will have nothing to grumble about either, with plenty of space for four and enough to make five adults a comfortable proposition. The cabin is typical Skoda too: high in quality, efficiently designed and laid out with just a hint of its Czech roots in the instrument graphics. There are no confusing gadgets, handbrakes or complicated infotainment systems to trouble your journey either: the new touch screen unit is a doddle to use too, with simple graphics and large buttons to make life easier.

But it's in the driver's seat that all the action takes place, because there is 200bhp to propel it along. Don't forget that this is the Volkswagen-derived 2.0-litre TFSI unit that has a very wide band of torque: 279Nm from 1,700rpm right through to 5,000rpm, which makes for fantastically linear and flexible acceleration. Whatever the gear and whatever the speed, the vRS will pick up the pace.

As well as being fun to drive when you're in a hurry, it also makes for relaxing progress, especially if you tick the box for the superb DSG gearbox.

Balance is the term that also best sums up the Octavia vRS out on the road. Although the vRS has lowered suspension and larger wheels, the ride quality is good enough to cope with whatever a badly-maintained road can throw at it. Firm enough to be agile and composed but soft enough to be untroubled by bad bumps, it allows you to flow along the road at whatever pace you like. Standard fit ESP and strong brakes complete the package.

More than most manufacturers, Skoda makes cars for people to buy with their own money, and the combination of value, all-round ability and an unburstable feel makes it a car you'll be happy to have in your driveway.

Specs & rating

• Model: Skoda Octavia vRS Estate
• Engine: 2.0-litre turbo
• Transmission: Six-speed manual
• Max power: 200bhp @ 6,000rpm
• Max torque: 279Nm @ 1,700rpm
• Top speed: 240kph
• 0-100kph: 7.3sec
• Price: TBC
• Plus: Practical estate that's fun to drive
• Minus: Not available here