The new generation Octavia claims to be the most advanced ŠKODA ever
The arrival of the Rapid to the Škoda range paved the way for a bigger and classier Octavia, we find out if the new model delivers on that promise
What is it? Bigger than the VW Golf but smaller than the Passat the new Octavia is longer and wider than before. Crucially its also lighter thanks the use of high strength steel which should make if far more nimble on the road and easier on fuel.
Who is it aimed at? There is no denying the importance of the Octavia in Škoda’s line up. Over the years it has accounted for almost 40% of their overall sales and has been bought by everyone from families outgrowing their hatchbacks to taxi drivers looking for reliability and space.
Styling? The changes from the last model are not immediately apparent but overall the look is sleeker and more elegant. The Octavia is not going to win any beauty contests but it is certainly a smart modern looking car.
Under the Bonnet: Our test car was powered by a punchy 2.0 diesel that dashes from 0 – 100 km in a respectable 8.3 seconds. Other engine options include a 1.6 diesel and a 1.2, 1.4 and 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol models. There are also four different gearboxes to choose that range from a 5 speed manual to a seven speed automatic.
What about Inside? Climb inside and it’s very much a VW, the interior is reassuringly contemporary, clean and simply styled. Everything from the controls to the buttons and knobs are all easy to use. But it is space that really sets the Octavia apart from rivals and as expected driver and passenger space is vast. The boot measures a whopping 590 litres which is larger than the Ford Mondeo, VW’s Passat and the Toyota Avensis.
The large 590-litre boot is extendable to 1,580 litres
On the Road? Behind the wheel you quickly appreciate the lightness of the car and the strong pulling power of the 2.0 litre diesel engine. There is more than enough oomph for overtaking or merging onto the motorway and it is beautifully solid, responsive and stable on the road. On the downside it gets a little noisy at speeds and the ride is a little too firm for some tastes.
And Safety? The Octavia is well equipped with electronic stability control, ABS, 9 airbags traction control and a host of cutting-edge safety systems such as Adaptive Cruise Assistant, Lane Assistant, and Intelligent Light Assistant.
Options? The new Octavia comes in three specification levels, Active, Ambition and Elegance, and there is a high level of standard safety and comfort equipment. Prices for the petrol Octavia start at €€18,995 and €22,195 for the diesel range.Introduced this month is the vRS, the fastest Octavia ever comes with a starting price of €32,495.
What about fuel economy? Our diesel test car is one of the most economical cars around. The results of the weight saving measures are impressive; with CO2 emissions of just 106g/km annual road tax for our test car is €190. Around the city it consumes a frugal 5.0 litres per 100 kilometres and on a mix of urban and motorway driving an excellent 4.1 litres per 100 km.
Okay so the Verdict? The new Skoda Octavia makes a super family car. It’s elegant on the outside and cavernous on the inside. On top of all that it is good to drive; with more than 24 different versions to choose from, there’s bound to be one for you!
Why you’ll buy one? Space; price; economy
Why you won’t? Conservative styling; noisy;
Rivals:
Toyota Auris/Corolla: €18,995 – €27,990
Volkswagen Golf: €20,745 – €39,385
Ford Focus: €19,795 – €31,500
ŠKODA Octavia Elegance 2.0 TDI 150bhp
Engine: 1968cc diesel, 112 kW (150php) @3,500-4000, 320 @Nm 1750-2750 rpm
Max speed: 218km/h
0-100 kph: 8.5 seconds
Emissions (Motor Tax) : 106g/km (Band C €190)
Model price range: €18,995 – €30,295 (Test Car €27,995 *)
No of Doors: 5
Euro NCAP: 5 stars
Fuel type: Diesel
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 4.1 litres per 100 kms
Boot Capacity Seats up(down) : 590 Litres (1580)
Car Seats: 2 Isofix fittings in the rear
Length: 4659mm
Width: 1814mm
Height: 1461mm
Wheelbase: 2686mm
* Extras included
Crew protect assist €175, Mitsumi (Apple connectivity) €46, Automatic Parking Assistant €729, Driver Activity Assistant €46, Columbus Sat nav €1921, Lane Assistant €437, Hill Hold Control €87, Metallic paint €526
For more information check out Skoda.ie or the Skoda Facebook page
Geraldine Herbert
28th August, 2013
