CAR OF THE YEAR

Skoda Octavia Named Autos Community’s Family Car of the Year

The Skoda Octavia has long been a top choice in the family car class, and the latest model – which is named our Car of the Year – is as good as ever. The Octavia offers a high level of tech, both in-car gadgets and life-saving safety equipment. Thanks to new technologies, the engines are also more efficient and quieter than ever before.

With its vast 600-litre boot and rear legroom that’s unmatched in this class, the Skoda lives up to its brand reputation. The Octavia is based on the MQB platform used by many other VW Group models, but it surpasses them by offering more for less, especially when it comes to practicality. But it’s also good to drive, with a smooth suspension that nicely smooths out bumps in the road.

A Mix of Value, Economy and Performance

It’s not just a comfortable cruiser, though, as the precise steering makes it relatively satisfying to drive, and the engines are powerful and quite fun, but also economical. There’s also a 1.0-litre e-tec mild-hybrid variant and a smooth 2.0-litre diesel if you do many miles. The 1.5-litre petrol TSI offers a mix of value, economy and performance, but you should also consider the new plug-in hybrid iV model, especially if you are a company car driver.

Quality Is Key

Features include wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and an impressive 10.25-inch digital driver display. The touchscreen display on the dashboard is responsive and looks smart too.

The quality of the interior is a strong point. Skoda has improved the quality of materials here to give the Octavia an even more premium feel. The Octavia also has a clean look that’s easy to live with. Thanks to great finance deals, the Octavia is also incredibly affordable, giving it another win as our favourite family car of 2021.

Sharper Appearance

The new Skoda Octavia offers more quality but is just as practical and family-friendly as ever. It would be unfair to say that Skoda has played it safe with the new Octavia. Improvements to the exterior design, onboard technology and the quality of interior materials all contribute to a sharper appearance and are an objective statement of intent from the Czech manufacturer.

Unmatched Qualities

Skoda knows its Octavia customers all too well. The Czech manufacturer has everything you need if you are looking for value for money, low running costs, plenty of practicality, and a comfortable ride.

Thus, Skoda Octavia can undoubtedly hold its own in the family estate class. Each generation has had a clear focus and purpose, resulting in a loyal customer base and a genuine appreciation of its apparent qualities.

Modern Infotainment Systems

The new Octavia offers all the usual features, but this time there’s a sleek new look and modern infotainment systems, while the interior quality feels more upmarket than before. The Octavia has also grown a little bigger: It’s 19 mm longer and 15 mm wider than the previous model.

The Octavia comes in five trim levels: SE First Edition, SE Technology, SE L, SE L First Edition and vRS. An S variant is expected to be added to the model range.

Engine Options

Skoda offers three petrol engines for the Octavia: a 1.0-litre TSI with 109bhp, a 1.5 TSI with a more powerful 148bhp and a 2.0 TSI with 242bhp. Diesel power comes from a 2.0-litre TDI unit that produces either 114 hp, 148 hp or 197 hp. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with an optional DSG automatic transmission available for the more powerful oil burner.

The Octavia is the first Skoda to feature mild-hybrid technology. The 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre TSI engines can be electrified by a 48-volt belt starter and 48-volt lithium-ion battery to improve efficiency.

A new plug-in hybrid variant combines a 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor to produce a combined output of 201bhp and 350Nm of torque. A more powerful version is fitted in the vRS version. Skoda claims that the iV variant can achieve a range of 34 miles on battery power alone.

The Verdict

The Skoda Octavia has been refined across the board without compromising on space, practicality and all-around performance. It may cost a little more, but Skoda has focused on delivering a savvy, versatile car that rivals the best in its class.

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Hassan Soukar

Hassan Soukar is a veteran automotive, and tech journalist, as well as a professional photographer. A man with a keen sense for innovation and a great sense of humour. He is the pro that reviews the latest gadgets from smartphones and VR headsets to fitness bands. Hassan has a generous number of lists, reviews and latest industry leaks.

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