Skoda Octavia Estate - Interior & comfort

The current generation Skoda Octavia Estate has always exuded a higher level of sophistication and quality than previous models, but the facelift has upped the ante with even more tech as standard. Be careful though, because going for a higher trim and adding options can turn what used to be considered a budget model into a much more expensive product.

Skoda Octavia Estate dashboard

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Soft-touch materials and ambient lighting help the Octavia feel more upmarket and it's pleasantly uncluttered inside. The facelifted Skoda Octavia Estate now gets a 13-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard on entry-level SE Technology trim, rather than the 8.25-inch and 10-inch screens that came on the older car. 

Below this, there's a discreet row of rocker switches and a centre console with a small toggle-style gear selector for automatics. This frees up lots of space, even allowing your smartphone to sit in front of it and charge wirelessly (if you’ve chosen this optional function). 

The digital instrument dials have clear graphics, sitting behind a two-spoke steering wheel. This can be configured to display several items such as the current speed, what media you currently have playing or even full-screen maps with sat-nav directions. Up to five USB-C ports allow every occupant to charge their portable device while on the move. Clever touches include a conveniently placed USB-C port in the headlining next to the rear view mirror, which allows you to power a dashcam while keeping the wiring neat.

Equipment

All versions of the Octavia Estate come well-equipped, especially since the introduction of that new large display as standard. Other standard kit includes wireless smartphone charging, heated front seats and sat nav on entry SE Technology spec.

Two main trims sit above this, badged SE L and Sportline, as well as a limited First Edition trim to celebrate the facelift’s launch. As well as the kit mentioned above, SE-L highlights include 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and start, and LED headlights.

Sportline adds larger 18-inch wheels and sportier styling, a lowered suspension setup, drive mode selection and a rear-view camera. First Edition models get the full bells and whistles the Octavia Estate has to offer, aside from the Sportline’s styling. These include full LED-matrix headlights with integrated fog lights, sunblinds for the rear side windows, a tablet-holder on the back of the front seats for rear-seat passengers among other kit. Check the manufacturer’s website for full specifications.