7:00am Saturday 5th December 2009
SKODA’S award-winning Octavia has earned a reputation for being well built, refined and excellent value for money. But as far as looks go, it has cut a rather restrained dash.
However, the new model has changed that, being a much better looker and boasting improvements in so many other different ways.
Importantly, too, during the present budget-conscious times, the Octavia is even better value for money than before.
The Octavia is Skoda’s most successful car with total UK sales of 140,000 and counting, and this revamp should ensure it continues to drive the brand forward.
There are revisions galore inside and out with the front end getting the most cosmetic treatment from a sculptured bonnet, new grille, bumpers and lights which all help to give the car a more dynamic appearance.
The interior gets new trim, instrumentation and controls while the entertainment systems have been upgraded with most models featuring an easy-to-use touch screen which adds to the convenience and comfort of daily use.
While these upgrades will please many, others will look to the revised engine range which consists of four petrol and three diesel motors with outputs ranging from 80bhp to 200bhp. Fuel economy and emissions are among the lowest in the segment with the new 1.4-litre TS1 DSG returning 44.8mpg on the combined cycle and emitting just 147g/km of C02.
This latest direct injection turbocharged engine technology makes the petrol motors more powerful, significantly more fuel efficient and cleaner.
In six-speed manual form, the quiet 1.4-litre TS1 develops a whopping 122bhp and allows the Octavia to sprint from nought to 62mph in just 9.7 seconds. It has a top speed of 126mph, can return up to 53.3mpg with C02 emissions of 154g/km, so that it also has a level of performance and running costs associated with the larger capacity diesels.
Along with the fresh engines comes the complete adoption of DSG technology across the range which makes the new Octavia’s transmission line-up one of the most advanced in the sector.
And, thanks to a new chassis and suspension, the ride quality is a notable improvement over the previous Octavia. The ride is composed over most surfaces and is limousine- like on very good roads. The composure remains excellent when the car is driven fast into sharp bends so that the driver soon appreciates the good handling qualities of the Octavia.
The steering, too, is nicely communicative.
It features an intelligent electro-mechanical steering booster programmed so that its effect deceases as the road speed rises.
The new steering wheel is in line with the Superb, Skoda’s flagship model, and includes paddles on DSG variants.
Space is a plus point. It is plentiful in the front and rear while the boot is simply cavernous for a hatch with 560 litres with easy access.
The hatch’s basic volume can be increased to 1,350 litres by folding down the rear seat back rests.
The rear section benefits from a large, tilting hatch operated by a soft touch electro-mechanical switch.
The seven trim levels should suit most tastes and budgets with the standard equipment having been upgraded. All the cars come with twin front and side airbags as standard with curtain airbags an option.
ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution, electronic stability control and ISOFIX child seat mounts are standard.
The new radio features the latest technology.
Prices start at £11,995 for the entry level 1.4-litre 16-valve 80bhp S-specification petrol hatch.
Higher up the specification list is the Elegance model, an excellent choice, with a wealth of equipment that includes special 16in alloy wheels, dual-zone air-conditioning, acoustic rear parking sensors, cruise control and electrically adjustable, heated and foldable door mirrors.
AT-A-GLANCE
Skoda Octavia Hatch Elegance 1.4-litre TS1 122bhp 6-speed petrol manual.
Price: £16,100 (on the road).
Top speed: 126mph.
0-62mph: 9.7 seconds.
Fuel: 42.8mpg (combined figure).
Emissions C02/g/km: 154.
Verdict: Improved looks, new engines, transmissions, revised interior, comfortable, well built and excellent value for money.
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