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Skoda has unveiled a new Fabia vRS hot hatch, which will also be available as a hot estate for the first time.

Unlike the previous diesel-only Fabia vRS, the new version features the same 1.4-litre super- and turbocharged engine, which produces 178bhp found in the Seat Ibiza Cupra. It powers the front wheels via a seven-speed, twin-clutch DSG gearbox.

The result is a 0-62mph time of just 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 140mph for the hatchback and 141mph for the spacious estate.

The Fabia's looks have been beefed-up with deep bumpers, lower ride-height, a rear diffuser and 17-inch alloys wheels. The vRS also features the same redesigned headlights and grille as the rest of the Fabia range.

Both the hatch and estate are fitted with a sophisticated electronic stability control programme that sends power to whichever front wheel has the most grip.

Sales are set to begin in late spring, with prices starting from under £16,000. Sounds like a bit of a performance bargain.

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