USED Skoda Octavia Hatchback (04 - )

My car

I got a chance to drive this model on the advertised 24-hour test drive.

Being an existing Octavia driver, I found it easy to adjust to. The 2L TDi engine was a nice surprise especially as I was expecting to get the 1.9. This coupled with the 6-speed gearbox was excellent and certainly gave you a kick in the pants acceleration.

This did generate diesel engine noise but the radio system dealt with that. It took a few goes to get use to the six gears, especially coming down, but once familiar the use of 5th was negated for 6th to 4th. The ride and handling is a big step up from my old Octavia with cornering poise and comfort of the ride excellent.

The steering was another thing that took a while to get use to. At times it felt heavy at low speeds but once familiar, no real problems.

The cabin layout is excellent oozing quality and functionality. The seats were body hugging, not allowing movement when cornering. I tested the car with the family and all enjoyed the step up in all aspects including all the extra room and oddment storage space.

Overall, this was what I expected after reading other reviews but I am even more convinced that come Jan/Feb I'll be busy getting the best deal on a higher spec Elegance plus extras.

PS I have had 4 years driving 100,000 miles in the TDi Octavia - only an alternator and brakes(especially) have been a problem.