Skoda Octavia review - Interior & comfort

The Octavia's interior was completely revamped for the latest generation and again for its mid-life facelift, with a new design that feels upmarket and modern. Gone are the days when the Octavia felt basic compared with the equivalent Volkswagen Golf; in fact, some will prefer sitting in the Skoda to the VW.

Perhaps that should be no surprise given that less than £2,000 now separates the closely related cars, but you also get more space in the bigger Octavia, which could be a winning factor if you have a family.

Skoda Octavia dashboard

Thanks to a digital revolution at the Volkswagen Group, the Octavia's dashboard has undergone a transformation. A Virtual Cockpit instrument display is now available, while a large 13-inch infotainment screen is standard, appearing to hover in front of the fascia.

A sweeping metallic band spans from the front doors across the dash, giving it a strong look. It's also somewhat functional, providing a place to anchor your hand while using the touchscreen and a structure for the single row of buttons and middle air vents. An electric handbrake and small gear selector (in automatics) provides more central storage space for your smartphone and drinks.

Equipment

From its 2024 facelift, SE Technology is the entry-level model of the current line-up, with 16-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, LED exterior lighting and a larger 13-inch touchscreen compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto Auto. For convenience, there's also dual-zone climate control, cruise control and voice activation.

SE L adds 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior trim and tinted glass, 'Microsuede' upholstery, a heated steering wheel and windscreen, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and a powered tailgate. Sportline is only offered with the 148bhp petrol engine, but offers 18-inch wheels, sports suspension, gloss-black exterior trim and sharper steering.

Options

It's possible to add a variety of options to the Octavia, from styling items such as 18-inch alloy wheels, to practical items including a temporary space-saver spare wheel that costs around £200. A rear-view camera and LED rear lights with animated indicators are a £600 upgrade for SE Technology and SE L trims, while a head-up display and Canton sound system cost around £700 each. Meanwhile, a winter pack with a heated steering wheel and windscreen can be added to trims without it for £450.

Other items that owners may be drawn to include a factory-fitted tow bar that can be folded out of sight, costing around £1,000.