Insurance Group: 11
MPG: 39.2
CO2: 168
0-62 Mph: 12.4 secs
BHP: 101 BHP
Range: 474 miles
PROS: The better trim level makes this a much better option than the standard S model.
CONS: The engine lacks some of the power needed in a car of this size and this means comfort is affected.
Delivering 101 bhp of power through a four cylinder petrol engine, the Skoda Octavia Estate ES 1.6 MPI is far from the most powerful estate car although improvements are made on the 1.4 16v model. A top speed of 117 mph is more than adequate for a car of this class but the acceleration speeds let the car down. Travelling from 0-62 mph takes a lengthy 12.4 seconds and this means that achieving the top speed of 117 mph will take some time.
The additional power provided in this larger engine also sacrifices some of the efficiency of the 1.4 16v model, with the car achieving just 39.2 mpg. Carbon emissions are also much higher at 168 g/km, putting the car into a higher road tax band (H).
The handling feels stable, even at high speeds, and the suspension does a great job of cushioning the drive on rough surfaces.
The Skoda Octavia Estate is an attractive car and the layout of instruments within the cabin is fairly logical, making operating controls whilst driving easy. The SE trim level offers additional features to drivers, although there are still some fittings missing.
Standard equipment includes power steering, central locking, alloy wheels, air conditioning, electric door mirrors, electric front windows and an advanced stereo system with CD connectivity.
Whilst this is not much improvement on the standards S trim level, the SE model comes with a greater range of options as chargeable extras.
A built in sat nav, Bluetooth connectivity, MP3 connectivity for the stereo and rear parking sensors can all be added for an extra cost of £1,660, £745, £185 and £300 respectively. Cruise control and climate control are also available at respective prices of £225 and £490 whilst stability control remains an add-on feature which is priced at £395.
The estate is a very practical car with plenty of room in the cabin for driver and passengers and in the boot for luggage. The boot capacity offers a generous 605 litres when the seats up, expanding to 1,655 litres when the seats are folded down. This gives owners more than enough room, despite the awkward shape of the boot and the high lip of the car, which can making loading difficult. For the comfort of the driver, both the front seat and steering column offer plenty of adjustment making a good driving position possible.
The car scored four out of five for overall safety in the NCAP crash tests and whilst some features are offered as standard the car is missing vital features such as standard electronic stability which can be added for additional costs of £395. This is the same as in the S model but the SE also benefits from a standard fitted alarm, increasing the security on offer.
Features which are fitted as standard include driver, passenger and front side airbags as well as an immobiliser to protect the car from theft.
In terms of reliability, the car is expected to perform well and comes with a three year warranty for 60,000 miles to offer buyers peace of mind.
Priced at £15,985, this model is still affordably priced for its class and costs just £1,665 more than the less well-equipped Skoda Octavia Estate S 1.4 16v. However, running costs will be much higher in this model and the improved performance still struggles to match the size of this car.
For those looking for a high performance vehicle it would be worthwhile upgrading to a larger engine which delivers better credentials alongside stronger efficiency.
As a large family car with an affordable price tag and low running costs, the Skoda Octavia S 1.4 16v is a great option for buyers. Unfortunately the performance credentials are lacking in this mod...
As a large family car with an affordable price tag and low running costs, the Skoda Octavia S 1.6 TDI CR DSG is a great option for families on a budget. The 1.6 litre engine offers a more impressiv...
As a large hatchback with good performance credentials and low running costs, the Skoda Octavia SE 2.0 TDI CR is a great option for families. The only disadvantage is that there are not more in-car...
In comparison with other cars in its range the Octavia Greenline 1.6 TDI is head and shoulders above its rivals when it comes to value for money. Skoda’s excellent reputation for customer care also...
The Skoda Octavia offers big car value without the added cost. Families looking for a spacious car that handles well and gives decent performance may want to consider this model. Competitive pricin...
You might want to read reviews for other Medium Family cars that you can then compare to the Skoda Octavia. Here are some popular Skoda Octavia alternatives:
