Running costs make for impressive reading. Most models have now done a large proportion of their depreciating, are cheap to buy and won’t lose a huge amount over the coming years. Diesels are quite sought-after and retain their values well. Service intervals could be better spaced (they’re every 10,000 miles), but Skoda dealers are much cheaper than Volkswagen.

Insurance is reasonable.

Octavia performs well on the eco front. With an average of 178 g/km CO2 across the line-up, its emissions are quite low for a medium-sized estate. However, it’s worth noting that the line up has a high number of diesel models, bringing the average down and giving buyers more choices of low-emission versions. Diesels typically produce less CO2 than petrol engines with similar power outputs.

Eco-conscious buyers should consider the 1.9-litre diesel, which is one of the greenest models in the range. The range is also fairly economical, averaging 41 mpg.

The quality really shows, even on basic models. All cars have proved reliable and diesels should go on an achieve mega-mileages.