Feature

New Hyundai i30 & Skoda Octavia vs Mazda 3

The Octavia has long been one of our favourite family cars. But has a mid-life update kept it ahead of the all-new Hyundai i30 and the cheaper Mazda 3?

Our verdict

Sometimes the word ‘facelift’ doesn’t tell the whole story, but in the case of the latest Octavia it’s the perfect description. Its restyled nose is the only major change to what was already an utterly brilliant family car, so the fact that there haven’t been any notable mechanical tweaks or engine updates is no bad thing.

advertisment

The Octavia remains much roomier inside than any of its peers, while also being good to drive, classy inside and very well equipped in SE L trim. True, it isn’t as cheap to buy as it once was, but it’s still superb value in the long run, especially if you buy on finance. Put simply, it’s still easily the best car in this hotly contested class.

The new i30 comes closest to stealing the Octavia’s crown. We’re big fans of its punchy turbocharged engine, great driving position, user-friendly infotainment system and healthy roster of safety kit, which includes not only automatic emergency braking – all three cars get this – but also lane-keeping assistance. It’s just a pity the i30 is so expensive to buy on finance and isn’t predicted to hold onto its value very well. The fact that it’s the most stingily equipped of our trio only compounds its problems.

Car reviews

Skoda Octavia

Skoda Octavia Estate

Skoda Octavia vRS

View all new car reviews

You certainly can’t level these accusations at the Mazda 3; it’s incredibly well equipped and yet will do no more damage to your wallet than the Octavia if you buy on finance. Sadly, being relatively cheap doesn’t make up for its disappointing driving experience, low-rent interior, noisy cruising manners and inflexible engine. The 3 therefore remains an also-ran.

advertisment