Skoda Octavia

FORECOURT SKODA OCTAVIA

Skoda has launched its fourth-generation Octavia with a vast swathe of new features. But is it any good? Jack Evans finds out.

WHAT IS IT?

The Octavia has come to represent excellent value for money, brilliant practicality and genuine solidity. In short, it’s a pretty crucial car for the Czech manufacturer. This is the latest Octavia and Skoda says it’s better than ever.

WHAT’S NEW?

Not only is it sharper to look at, it’s longer, wider and taller than the car it replaces. It also has cleaner engines, more interior technology and some clever voice-activated systems.

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?

Our test car came with a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine and seven-speed DSG gearbox. A cheaper petrol option is available, but we’re sure that given its low running costs this diesel choice will be a key consideration in the Octavia’s list of powertrains.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

If you’re looking for outright comfort then boy, is this the car for you. The Octavia feels as though it has been designed with the UK’s roads in mind, given its exceptional ability to steam out the creases in the road ahead and leave you riding a comfortable and soft wave of forward motion. For motorway slogs, the Octavia really is a great travelling companion.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

It doesn’t seem quite as svelte as the car it succeeds. It’s not a bad-looking car, but it just doesn’t look quite as ‘tight’ as the older Octavia in terms of design.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

The latest Octavia’s interior is a far more screen-heavy affair than the previous model’s. As a result, the cabin feels cleaner, sharper and less button-cluttered. The front area of the cabin is wide and open, while there’s plenty of space for those sitting in the back, too.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

Our car came in First Edition specification, which meant it was practically weighed down with equipment. Features included 17-inch alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control, chrome roof rails and front heated seats. The new infotainment screen, which controls crucial aspects of the car, operates well and is easy to navigate through.

WHAT DO THE PRESS THINK?

Carwow said: ‘Skoda often swoops in and obliterates its Volkswagen Group stablemates on space and practicality, and the Skoda Octavia is one of the best examples of that.’

WHAT DO WE THINK?

It’s fearlessly well suited to the rigours of the everyday, thanks to great practicality levels and a ride which turns even the lumpiest of roads into far more comfortable surfaces. It also looks good and feels good inside.

THE KNOWLEDGE Skoda Octavia SE L First Edition

Price (as tested): £32,120 Engine: 2.0-litre diesel Power: 148bhp Torque: 340Nm Max speed: 137mph 0-60mph: 8.5 seconds MPG: 52.3-60.1 Emissions: 123-141g/km CO2

TARGET BUYERS:

Those who want a practical, comfortable and easy-to-drive estate.

THE RIVALS:

Volkswagen Golf, Mazda6 Tourer, Audi A4 Avant.

KEY SELLING POINTS:

1. Well-judged suspension. 2. Excellent levels of standard equipment. 3.Spacious and practical interior.

DEAL CLINCHER: The Octavia really is all the car you could ever need, with space and comfort aplenty.

Inside

The cabin has a cleaner and sharper feel, with a main screen giving access to many of the car’s functions.

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