Skoda Octavia Estate (1998 - 2005) 1.9 TDI PD Laurin + Klement (130bhp) 5d (2004/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Two ways to look at this: Either it says you've made a shrewd choice, German reliability, quality and practicality without having wasted money on a badge. Or its a bit of an old-man's car - or a taxi.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

The men generally admire it - the women preferred the MR2.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Definitely - Practicality, reliability, economy, nice to drive.

What are you likely to buy next?

Very likely the same again - although I intend to keep this one for a long time.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,500

When did you buy the car?

March 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes - I was lucky, a genuine one-owner-from- new, FSH, very well loved car, at a good price. But I was looking for one for quite a long time.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I needed an economical diesel as the cost of petrol was rising steeply. The combination of practicality and reliability appealed.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

I really like driving it, even though my previous car was a Toyota MR2. The 130bhp provides a genuine powerband, just where you need it around 1500 - 3000 rpm, which gives brisk acceleration. Handling is fine and the roadholding is very good if you corner hard, although it is not a pleasure to throw around. It is especially nice cruising on a motorway long distance. The L&K has a real quality car feel, leather seats, fully-loaded with extras - but at an ordinary car price. Even at 140,000 miles it still feels like driving a new car.

What's it like to park?

A cinch, with the reversing bleepers I can get it into incredibly tight spaces - they have never let me down. The power steering makes light work of it too.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Only major failure in 50,000 miles was the cat, which cracked and had to be replaced - otherwise, just service items really - although I know the previous owner had to replace the turbo twice (under warrantee) and had an expensive electrical problem.

What's most practical about your car?

Superb workhorse. Big flexible load space, roof rails - I've fitted a tow bar too.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Cruise control. Reversing bleepers.