Question: what’s blue and red on the outside, black on the inside and excellent value for money? Answer: the stunning new Škoda Fabia vRS Special Edition.

To celebrate the fourth and final year of one of the UK’s best-loved diesel pocket rockets, Škoda has produced 1,000 Special Edition vRS’ featuring individually numbered black leather seats, sporty red callipers and Race Blue metallic paint – the only colour available and the first time it’s been offered on Fabia.

In addition to this – and the impressive spec already offered on vRS models – the Special Edition also benefits from cruise control, ‘sunset’ glass and a six-disc CD changer. You can even choose the number you want on your seats (001-1,000). However, this is on a first come first served basis.

Prices for the limited run start at £12,990 (standard vRS’ cost £12,375). Not only does this compare favourably to similar models from rival manufacturers, but it also represents outstanding value when you consider that the extra equipment included would otherwise cost over £2,000.

Buyers will still find the highly-acclaimed 1.9 TDI engine with its 130bhp and 310Nm of torque under the bonnet. The plucky powerplant not only dispatches the sprint to 62mph in 9.5 seconds on its way to a 128mph top speed, but is also capable of returning over 64mpg on the extra urban cycle.

Nearly 11,000 Fabia vRS’ have been sold in the UK since the sporty model’s introduction back in 2003. Now in its final year, the frugal yet feisty favourite will be phased out during 2007.

The all-new Fabia hatchback goes on sale in May with the new vRS derivative expected sometime in 2008.