Skoda Octavia (New)
Overall Average Rating - 90.88%
Position in the Top 100 cars - 3rd
The Czech firm was hoping it would be three wins in three years for the latest Octavia, but in the end the top-value family model has had to settle for third place.
With a Driver Power record no other car can match, notching up its fourth podium position is still a brilliant result.
Comfort is its one weakness – while 38th is hardly a disgrace, it’s the Octavia’s lowest rating. Third place for practicality is the highlight, and with the facelifted variant now on sale, these ratings could get a boost.
It hasn’t matched its previous successes, but there are few better family models available.
WINNER OF CATEGORY - Practicality
If you gauge the appeal of your new car on how much you can fit inside, it’s essential you read our practicality chart. The winning car has the highest average rating in any of our judging categories. Land Rover’s latest Discovery scored a formidable 99.15 per cent. When it comes to carrying people and luggage, nothing else comes close. With seven occupants on board, there’s still room for 280 litres of luggage, while in two-seat form, the volume grows to an incredible 2,558 litres. Space efficiency counts for a lot, too, which is why Honda’s Jazz holds second place, thanks to its clever folding rear seats and a light and spacious interior. Both MkI and MkII MINIs are in the last five. It seems owners aren’t happy with the tight rear space and tiny boot.
Ratings
Position in the Top 100 cars
Reliability: 17th
Build Quality: 17th
Running Costs: 9th
Performance: 10th
Braking: 16th
Ride Quality: 26th
Handling: 24th
Practicality: 3rd
Comfort: 38th
Ease of Driving: 15th
Your Quotes
“I can’t name another car in the same class that does as good a job as the Octavia. It’s immensely satisfying to drive and own – Skoda seems to get everything right.
David Hill, Edlesborough, Bedfordshire
Manufacturer Verdict (Position - 1st)
Congratulations to Skoda – it’s the first firm ever to knock Lexus off the top of this chart! A consistently strong performance across the range proved decisive, with the Superb and Octavia starring.
