Skoda Octavia

The Skoda Octavia hatchback behaves with the manners of a Golf, because that’s what it is underneath. Design is neat, with the rear extension avoiding rivals’ tacked-on look. Owners love them and praise the service provided by the dealers.

• Comfort

  Good driving position is the gateway to a happy long-distance relationship. Ride has enough travel for ropey roads but doesn't lose the plot by floating. Engine noise doesn't intrude. Seats support your body properly.

  

• Performance

  Serviceable in the base versions. Petrol TSI and TFSI engines punch well above their weight and sound good. Most will buy diesels though, and with the economical 77kW 1.9 or punchy  103kW 2.0, they're not making a mistake. The joy of DSG transmission is available too.

  

• Cool

  Even with the vRS coolness isn't really the reason for buying a Skoda is it? You are confident enough not to need it. And that carries a whiff of cool in itself, especially when wrapped in the estate body.

  

• Quality

  The cabin has been carefully set up to look like VW's runner-up brand - well made but a little lacking in surprise-and-delight or sparkle. Still, it's as tough as old boots and the reliability makes owners happy.

  

• Handling

  Soft but reassuring on the base models, nicely finessed on the hot vRS. Weighty, well-damped steering makes it easy to drive smoothly. No untoward surprises means you can comfortably nuzzle the limits. The raised 4x4 Scout doesn't roll too much and gets the torque onto the tarmac however greasy it is.

  

• Practicality

  Big of boot, but that's just the start. Cabin cubbies carry all sorts of clobber, and there are roof rails as standard. The Scout is all the off-roader most of us need, without the clumsiness.

  

• Running costs

  Generally the expenditure ought to be well contained. Long service intervals, economical diesel availablity and a three-year warranty will cut the worry. Depreciation no great issue.