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For The Skoda Octavia is decent to drive, has a huge, classy cabin and most versions are cheap to buy and run. Standard equipment is generous, too.

Against It's not the most exciting car to drive or to sit in, and the Octavia doesn’t ride as well as a VW Golf.

Skoda Octavia Hatchback
55 5stars

The Skoda Octavia might not be the most stylish car of its type, but it’s still one of the best. Classy, comfortable and incredibly spacious. Choose carefully and you'll get a real bargain.

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The full Skoda Octavia review


There are 9 Skoda Octavia versions available

Hatchback 1.2 TSI S 5dr £15,990
What Car? says:5 stars out of 5
Hatchback 1.2 TSI SE 5dr £17,190
What Car? says:5 stars out of 5
Hatchback 1.6 TDI S 5dr £18,040 TBA
Hatchback 1.4 TSI SE 5dr £18,390 TBA
Hatchback 1.6 TDI SE 5dr £19,240 TBA
Hatchback 2.0 TDI SE 5dr £20,140
What Car? says:5 stars out of 5
Hatchback 1.4 TSI Elegance 5dr £20,240 TBA
Hatchback 1.6 TDI Elegance 5dr £21,090 TBA
Hatchback 2.0 TDI Elegance 5dr £21,990
What Car? says:4 stars out of 5

Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

The Octavia is closer is size to a Ford Mondeo than a Focus, yet costs significantly less than a VW Golf.

Of the engines we’ve tried so far, our favourite is the 1.2 TSI. This entry-level engine gives an impressive blend of performance and economy, and keeps the price temptingly low. S trim gets you all the kit you’re likely to need.

Don’t discount the diesels, though, especially if you’re a company car driver. We’ve yet to test the super-frugal 1.6 TDI, but the 2.0 TDI is seriously strong and remarkably efficient.

The Octavia is built on the same platform as the Volkswagen Golf, so it strikes a fine balance between stable handling and a comfortable ride.

All materials feel solid, and the interior shames those of many more expensive models for its fit and finish. All models are very spacious, too, with more rear legroom than most rivals.

The exterior styling might look a bit staid, but the Octavia is very capable and comes at a great price to boot.

Octavia rivals

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Skoda Octavia Hatchback

Read the definitive Skoda Octavia Hatchback review from the expert What Car? team. Check specs, prices and compare with similar cars.

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