Performance ****
Naturally the two turbocharged petrol options are the sporty choices, offering great in-gear urge and little lag. But for most buyers the three 1.9-litre turbodiesels get the nod for low-down grunt and economy, particularly the excellent 130bhp unit. The other petrol engines are fine if you work them hard, but the basic 1.4-litre is too underpowered. SDi diesel struggles.
Ride & handling ***
Even the sporty versions of the Octavia don't offer many visceral thrills. Instead they concentrate on safety and comfort. All models will spear you through corners with little fuss. The ride is fairly well controlled over crests and dips, but it can be a little jiggly at town speeds. RS models have stiffened suspension and make composed sports saloons and wagons.
Refinement ****
The tyres kick up a little noise but the Octavia is generally a quiet cruiser. The non-turbocharged petrol engines do get a little thrashy if you take them near the red line. The turbodiesels can be clattery from cold, but once warmed up they are among the quietest four-cylinder diesels.

Buying & owning ****
Like the rest of the Skoda line-up, Octavias make sound private purchases through competitive pricing and low running costs though their used values are low. Go for either turbodiesel if you're after the best possible retained values and the prospect of miles-per-gallon in the high 40s. Servicing is cheap, too, and tax ratings are low.
Quality & reliability ****
Octavia owners are only likely to visit dealerships for routine servicing, and the Skoda family car has thrown up no reliability horrors in its lifetime. Build quality is above what you would expect in this price range, too. Fabrics, plastics and switchgear all feel and look top notch.
Safety & security ****
There's a good level of basic crash protection kit across the range. All models get twin airbags and anti-lock brakes. Upgrade to Elegance trim levels and you also get side airbag protection and traction control. Security is well covered, too. Deadlocks are standard, though not up to job of keeping professional thieves out.

Behind the wheel ****
Carspotters will notice that there's been widespread raiding of the VW parts bin to make up the Octavia's cabin. And this is no bad thing as it shares the Golf's clear controls, decent driving position and good range of adjustment. The seats are well-shaped and comfortable, too.
Space & practicality ***
With underpinnings based on a Golf, rear space is cramped for a family car. Headroom is fine for most, but rangier rear occupants may find their knees nudging chair backs. On the upside you get a big boot, with a well-planned and square boot floor. All models have a 60/40 split-fold rear bench.
Equipment ***
Buy a basic model Classic and you get little in the way of equipment. Pay more for the next model up, however, and air conditioning and, all-round power windows join the roster. Buy the range-toppers and you will get cruise control, leather upholstery and metallic paint.