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Skoda Octavia Hatchback 1.4 16v 80 Classic

For:
The Octavia's superb build quality is an example to all. It drives with a plush ride and agile, capable handling. It also has excellent cabin space.

Against:
Only the lack of urge at higher speeds disappoints in the 1.6 FSi model, and there's some wind flutter around the front windows.



Performance

Six engines are available. There are 1.4 and 1.6 petrols, and 1.9 and 2.0 turbodiesels. There are also 1.6- and 2.0-litre FSI petrols that use direct fuel injection to improve economy and emissions. The turbodiesel units provide plenty of punch, but the 1.4 petrol struggles on motorway inclines. Pick of the range is the 1.6 FSI.

Ride & handling

The Octavia is based on the latest supple-riding VW Golf. It deals with lumpen surfaces without any thumps or crashes entering the cabin. The handling is pleasingly agile while still remaining stable and lean-free through corners. Only the steering lets things down by being slightly inert.

Refinement

Skoda has worked very hard to make the Octavia as refined as possible. Some wind flutter is audible around the front windows and the 1.6 FSI engine becomes vocal when worked hard, but the Octavia's cabin is still a very hushed place to spend your time in on long journeys.

Buying & owning

The Octavia is attractively cheap to buy and run, and recently benefited from price cuts. Decent discounts are available and yet it holds its value better than most mainstream European rivals.

Quality & reliability

The new Octavia's cabin shames many more expensive cars for its fit and finish. All of the materials used in it have a solid, high-class feel, while the gaps between panels are tight and regular. The engines and mechanical parts are shared with the latest VW Golf, so should prove trouble-free.

Safety & security

All Octavias have twin front and side airbags, with side curtain airbags as an option. Other standard safety features are ISOFIX child seat mounts, anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, and electronic stability control. Security provision is good on most models, but the entry-level trim does not come with an alarm.

Behind the wheel

Masses of adjustment in the steering wheel and driver's seat allows for a superb driving position for all shapes and sizes. The dashboard is logically laid out and looks classy, and there'sa profusion of handy little cubbies and quality materials. All-round vision is very good.

Space & practicality

Skoda has addressed one of the few flaws of the old Octavia by providing much more rear leg space. Now, six-foot adults can comfortably sit behind similar-sized front occupants with room to spare. The boot is suitably enormous and suffers from no suspension intrusions, although when the 60/40 split-folding rear seat is tipped forward there's a step in the floor.

Equipment

There are three trim levels - Classic, Ambiente and Elegance - and only the basic one has no chilled air as standard. All versions have electric front windows, while the upper two trim levels also come with a six-CD autochanger, electric rear windows and electrically operated door mirrors. The top-spec Elegance trim also includes cruise control.

Running Costs

Town mpg

29.4

Out of Town mpg

50.4

Average mpg

40.4

Tank Capacity (gallons)

12.1

CO2 Rating (g/km)

167

Insurance Group

4

Typical Insurance Quote

£323

% Value Retained (3yrs/36,000mls)

36

Typical Contract Hire Rate (pcm)

£0

Pence Per Mile

36.14

Servicing Cost over 3yrs

£683

Servicing Intervals

2yr/Variable

Manufacturers Warranty

3yr/60k + 3yr Paint + 12yr Perforation + 3yr Breakdown

Performance & Measurements

Body type

Hatchback

Number of Doors

5

Number of Seats

5

Engine (cc/type)

1390/4

Fuel Type

Unleaded

Max Power (bhp/rpm)

79/5000

Engine Position

F

Driven Wheels

Front

Length (mm)

4572

Width (mm)

1769

Height (mm)

1442

Boot Space (min ltr)

560

Boot Space (max ltr)

1350

Turning Circle (m)

10.2

Towing Weight(kg)

900

Kerb Weight (kg)

1420

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