Skoda Octavia Hatchback (2013 - 2020) 1.2 TSI SE 5d (2013/13) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Now that Skoda's 1980's poor reputation has been replaced by a new one, Octavia buyers nowadays are assumed to be dependable and solid, seeking value for money - but with just a class from the Octavia.

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

There is still a residue of the "it's a Skoda, so it's cheap and unreliable" attitude around, but motor trade professionals have been universally approving and everyone else has been quickly won over by its looks outside and class inside.

Would you buy this car again and why?

So far, the car has lived up to the expectations. Time will tell if this is justified, but the omens are good. Though these two words don't usually go together, it's true to say this car has got class and value.

What are you likely to buy next?

Something pretty similar to the Octavia would meet my needs. I would like a little less road noise and suspension thump. I'd like (for the money) a front armrest and steering column controls, but other than that the Octavia would do fine.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£11,990

When did you buy the car?

October 2014

Did you get a good deal and why?

I visited the dealer quite a few times, had 2 drives and just maybe they got to the stage of thinking that I would keep bothering them until they gave me a good deal. In the event, the car was easily cheaper than any other advertised car from a dealer within 100 miles. They also gave me (without much pushing) a good deal on my trade in car.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

The Octavia has a reputation for economy, space and VW group reliability - all at a reasonable price.

What was the dealer like?

Helpful and not pushy. The only panic from the dealer came when my wife nearly changed her mind about what spec car to go for and it was clear that this meant looking elsewhere.

What's it like to drive?

The 1.2 litre petrol engine is never going to deliver huge amounts of power; it's a bit gruff, but it is still surprisingly useable; you don't get left at the lights and you don't feel you are running out of steam on the motorway; it goings around corners easily and overall is a pleasure to be in.

What's it like to park?

The range of adjustment on the driver's seat is so great that, allied to the narrow pillars, you get a good view all around; add in the parking sensors and a good turning lock and it doesn't feel difficult to squeeze into a small space.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing has broken yet and the solid feel of everything makes me think it isn't going to.

What's most practical about your car?

The sheer amount of space available is amazing and the boot in particular is big enough to take a dog for a walk in it.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The parking sensor and the accompanying picture on the screen showing how far you are from an obstacle is an endless source of fascination - and it's very helpful as well.