Used test: Skoda Octavia vs Vauxhall Astra

What will they cost?

New, the Skoda Octavia was the more expensive car by around £500. Now, at two-years-old, it’s the more expensive by, on average, around £1000, which is perhaps a sign that its residual values are the better of the two cars. Our data suggests that this looks like it’ll continue as the cars age, so, while the Vauxhall Astra looks good value on paper here, factor in that it might cost you more in depreciation.

However, the Astra should be cheaper to run other than that. Indeed our True MPG tests found it uses slightly less fuel in real-world driving, and it costs less to insure and for a car of this age it’s road tax is free. Only servicing is pricier on the Astra.

Both cars will come with manual air-conditioning, electric and heated door mirrors, electric front windows, a DAB radio, a USB socket and Bluetooth. The Astra wins the equipment race, though, by throwing in standard electric rear windows, LED daytime running lights and cruise control.

Skoda fitted the Octavia with more safety and security equipment, although both cars achieved five-star crash test ratings with Euro NCAP. Both come with an engine immobiliser and a tyre pressure monitor, but the Octavia has one more airbag (seven vs six) and offered the chance to add two more in the rear (for an extra £285 when it was new).

Only Vauxhall offered the chance to add automatic emergency braking (AEB), but the absence of a standard-fit alarm means that security firm Thatcham rated the Vauxhall Astra poorer than the Skoda Octavia for resisting thieves.

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