Skoda Octavia
Skoda's Octavia is a rival for the Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra and the car upon which it's based, the VW Golf. It's larger and cheaper than its rivals, and buyers have the choice of hatchback, Estate or four-wheel drive Scout, which has beefed-up bodywork and offers limited-off road ability. All models feature generously-sized and well built interiors, and huge boots. Entry-level cars are a little short on standard equipment, but there is a huge choice of petrol and diesel engines and trim levels. Build quality is first rate, while a reputation for reliability means strong resale values.
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Pros:
- Masses of space
- Comfortable over long distances
- Value for money
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Cons:
- Comfortable over long distances
- Noisy 1.9-litre diesel
- Tacky fake wood trim
On the open road, the Octavia hatchback offers impressive comfort. There's plenty of space for front and rear seat passengers, while the generous hatchback boot adds to practicality and versatility. Buyers need to be wary of sparsely equipped entry-level models though, and the lack of some safety equipment as standard.
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Pros:
- Huge boot and practical interior
- Comfortable drive
- 4x4 available
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Cons:
- Noisy 1.9-litre diesel
- Shape of boot floor
- Some safety kit not standard
While the Octavia Estate counts the likes of the Volkswagen Golf Estate and Renault Megane Sport Tourer among its rivals, the Skoda has a much bigger load bay. Unlike most rivals, the Octavia is available with four-wheel drive - and also in a more rugged looking model called the Scout, which features increased ground clearance. TDI diesel engines suit the Estate particularly and retain their value better.
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Pros:
- More space inside than rivals
- Very economical engines
- Lots of equipment
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Cons:
- Unexciting to look at
- Unexciting to drive
- Noisy diesel engines
The Skoda Octavia is renowned for space – there's always been lots of room inside for passengers and a huge boot for luggage, but the latest Octavia is bigger than ever. But that's not the only story – it's also better value than a Ford Focus or VW Golf and comes better equipped than those cars, too. Skoda's are famously satisfying cars to own, too, getting high owner ratings thanks, in part, to excellent dealers.
Coming in 2013.
Coming in 2013.
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