Skoda's new Fabia hatchback goes on sale in Britain this May, and the pocket rocket version, the vRS, is expected in 2008.

Before those dates, though, there is a just-released, limited run of 1,000 Special Edition vRS models now being offered to UK buyers.

The Special Editions feature individually numbered black leather seats, sporty red brake callipers, and Race Blue metallic paint - the only colour available.

Prices for the limited run start at £12,990, and the 1.9-litre turbo-diesel engine, with its 130bhp and sprint speed of 0 to 62mph in 9.5 seconds, should appeal to Fabia vRS fans.

If not, the 64mpg urban-cycle fuel return certainly will.