Skoda Octavia Reviews

Until the (almost literally) Superb wagon arrived this year, Skoda was about as widely known as Rob Oakshott. If the re-aligned and re-priced Octavia line-up is unlikely to bring the major parties to their knees, it should win votes from buyers who for the first time can get into a European-made medium-sized car for Toyota Corolla money.The Octavia range of liftbacks and wagons is Skoda’s mainstay, essentially a VW Golf underneath a body that’s larger and, according to European quality and reader surveys, better-built. Regarded over there as VW’s budget brand, so far it’s had but a token local presence under $30,000.The whole range is getting extra fruit, including standard sat-nav in models from the 118TSI on up, but that’s the next rung. Most of us with less than $30K of our own money to spend are after a Mazda3 or Hyundai i30 – and that’s where the new 90TSI comes in.VALUEAt $24,990 for the entry six-speed manual liftback, this is, on a metal for money basis, the best value European car Australian money can buy. As in “made in Europe”. It’s near twin, VW’s Golf Wagon comes out of Mexico and starts $2K dearer.That’s where the wagon version of the Octavia starts too, with the same direct-injection turbo petrol engine but a load space (580 litres backseats up, 1620 down) almost 200-litres greater than the VeeWee. That’s important, because when you get to the car we drove last week – the $29,290 Wagon with DSG - the Skoda’s price advantage is a matter a few hundred bucks.The 90TSI is no stripper, with Pyxis alloys in its chunky 15-inch Dunlop tyres, semi automatic air-con, multi-function steering wheel, trip computer, cruise control, remote locking and MP3. Essentially it’s compatible with Golf’s Trendline trim. A six-speed manual is standard; DSG adds $2300.A new entry diesel range, with a 77kW/250Nm TDI engine, is available shortly, from $26,990.TECHNOLOGYThis is where Skoda’s VW association distinguishes it from our northern neighbours. An old world four speed auto remains prevalent in this segment; the Czech gets a seven speed dual clutch jobbie, essentially an automated manual, with a meaningful sport and manual mode. It is ultra-efficient and – when on the move - redefines notions of seamlessness.With direct injection and turbo charging, the Octavia’s 1.4 litre four cylinder is good for 90kW and 200Nm, all of it available down low where it does the most good. This is a drivetrain to make the others seem just a bit 1990s. It does insist upon 95 RON thoughSAFETYAs is true of the latest Golf, the Octavia is a much updated and re-skinned take on the 2004 model.No bad thing that - it’s still at the fore of its class - just that the Skoda’s four star crash safety rating carries from tests done on the original which lacked curtain airbags. Now it has them, making for six in all. There are also anti-skid brakes, a stability program, brake assist, an anti-slip regulator and a full-size spare.DRIVINGIf you still equate capacity with capability, you’ll rapidly forget that quaint notion. While this is the least engine of the range, the blown 1.4 is never less than adequate and almost always more than enough, making light of the wagon’s 1410kg kerb weight and generally matching the performance of 2.0-litre atmo engines while bettering them for consumption and emissions.The 0-100km/h time is less than 10 seconds. One tires of hearing grown men whine about the abruptness of DSG off the mark and in low speed maneuvering. This characteristic is easily driven around, more so in this seven speeder than the older six, so harden up.Coming from the Czech Republic, where the roads are among Europe’s poorest, Skoda’s ride/handling compromise is the best in the VW Group for our battered bitumen, infinitely more so than certain “prestige” Euros. Despite the weight gain, it loses little or nothing dynamically to the Golf, which is about as good as it gets in a family front-wheel-drive.There’s a price to be paid in road and wind noise for the Octavia’s longer glasshouse, but aside from its practical application, the wagon is easier on the eye than the dowdy liftback.  If the wagon looks under-tyred on 15s, and it does, it feels so only when sorely provoked.VERDICT: Middle European mid-sizer invades Asian hatch territory and carries off the spoils.

The traditional prestige players are priced beyond the means of most of us -- but the qualitative difference separating the business class and the topline versions of the rest has diminished to the point of non-existence. All right, you'll look better in the car park comparison stakes if you drive the exxier choices listed here, but you're by no means always driving the better car.WAGONSOne's a classy Volkswagen Group sport wagon with a direct injection turbo petrol engine with the option of a cutting-edge transmission. And so's the Audi.The Czech-made Skoda is essentially a bigger in the body, more discreet, better riding and cheaper VW Golf GTI, the car that more than any other blurs the distinction between the prestige pack and the rest.The handling-enhancing electronic diff of the new GTI is on its way to the RS, so while the twin clutch DSG adds $2300, the generous standard kit (including tasty 18s) and skinny options list means there's not a lot more to spend. Rare is the Audi of which that can be said.The output of the front-wheel-drive Avant's turbo four is similar (132kW/320Nm plays Skoda's 147kW/280Nm), limited for its continuously variable transmission. Quattro and the full-fat engine sets you back another $13,000 -- and the premium is already just a bit silly.SEDANSOne's a perfectly balanced, rear-wheel-drive, inline petrol six with great steering and a six-speed ZF automatic. And so's the BMW.All right, we're comparing a big tarted-up Aussie taxi with a thoroughbred mid-size Bavarian sport sedan here, but what of it? Priced $33K south, this Falcon is probably the best-value car in the country on a metal for money basis and that price difference buys a lot of basic unleaded petrol for that 4.0-litre atmo six with its whacking 195kW/391Nm. If there's a quickish car that rides as well as the Falcon, it's known not unto us.As to the Bimmer, well, you'd go there if you could, even if the peerless handling comes at the price of run-flat tyres and an options list to make your eyes bleed.DIESELSOne's a European-built front-wheel-drive with a sophisticated turbodiesel engine and bank-vault build quality. And so's the Volvo. Now the first prestige Euro to be owned by a Chinese company, Volvo did rather well out of its association with Ford (certainly better than Saab did out of GM). But the years of proximity invite comparison.Long the choice of UK sales reps and families, the Mondeo's marriage of the diesel with an auto and capable dynamics give it a comfortable niche position at this level of the market. The Titanium edition gives the long Ford the trim and kit to compare with the premium brigade.Despite its more potent five-cylinder engine and Swedish aura of invulnerability, we just can't see the extra spend in the stolid Volvo.SUVSOne's the best-driving compact SUV and... uh, that's the BMW, actually. We've often said that if BMW made front-wheel-drive family cars they'd handle like Mazdas, so the two brands' respective four-wheel-drives should logically be even closer.Not quite, but not to the extent that the X3 is nigh-on $20K better. The X3's only real advantage in Australia's restricted conditions is its standard six-speed auto. Stop us if you're tired of hearing this, Mazda doesn't yet have a slusher for its diesel.While the Mazda's engine is slightly bigger and more potent than the BMW diesel, it has to haul a nearly two-tonne kerb weight. The X3 is 250kg lighter but, within, it's also the most dated Bimmer.How much is that badge worth, again?

Space. The final frontier. The place where Gene Roddenberry went to find inspiration for his Star Trek behemoth and where, on his death at age 70, he was rocketed to end up in a planned eternal orbit.For Gene, space was everything. For new car buyers, space is often hard to find.  That is, unless you travel off the beaten track and go Czech.Skoda, once a miserable reflection of how an invasive communist regime can really numb any desire to enjoy motoring, is packaged space.  Its Octavia Scout - effectively an Octavia Estate wagon with extra height and plastic pseudo-macho body panelling - is based on components from the Volkswagen group. That's not surprisingly because Skoda is owned by Volkswagen.Space and fit-outThe Octavia models are aimed at biggish people who like comfort, reliability, durability and space. People, indeed, like us.  So the Octavia sedan and wagon derivatives are very roomy and, to suit family life, functional and versatile.Indicative of the volume inside the Octavia Scout is the size of the boot. It's simply colossal. You swear you could park a small car in the back.  Golf bags? It sneers at golf bags. Prams? Octomum, come on down. Mountain bikes get swallowed up and even luggage items will fit within the squarish hatch opening.One of the most amazing features is that despite the Scout having all-wheel drive - which means bulky drive components under the floor - the depth, length and width of the luggage area defies logic.It's made even harder to understand when you realise that there's a full-size spare wheel under the boot floor.  Subaru - which has a rather budget-size boot, a high floor and a space-saver spare wheel - should take notes.Engine and gearboxBut the Scout is more than just about space. Skodas are no Cold War carryovers.  The Octavia gets the drivetrains and chassis expertise from the VW Golf and Passat so the fuel economy and performance are up with the best in class.In the Scout's case, it's a 2-litre turbo-diesel mated to a six-speed manual with all-wheel drive and a drive system that allocates power to the wheels with the most traction.We would, of course, prefer an automatic gearbox. I'm told that the Volkswagen DSG dual-clutch gearbox which is effectively an automatic - is to become available in a matter of months.For those who can't wait or who like changing their gears, the manual model is a really enjoyable drive. The gearchange is crisp, the clutch light and the torque of the turbo-diesel sufficient so you can start skipping cogs and taking corners in third.And as for fuel economy, the 6.7L/100km in city and suburbs was excellent for a car with this performance and of this size. Last month I tested the smaller BMW 123d manual coupe with stop/start technology and had problems getting less than 7L/100km.StylngOf course, with so much going for it there has to be a downside. And there is. It is a very conservatively styled car.  Skoda last year changed the headlights and grille to "modernise" its Octavia range and made so much fuss at the time you would have sworn they were about to lay eggs.On the road it is a tad frumpy - functional, but frumpy - and in a sea of flash models with headlights like crystal slivers, raked windscreens, subtly slitted grilles and tapering side glass, the Skoda is a gramophone to their iPod.DrivingIt's also noisy, particularly at low speeds. This is unusual given the same engine is used in heaps of Volkswagen and Audi products and they're all quiet, hinting that the Skoda is thin on sound deadening.  At cruising speed it's almost inaudible but press the accelerator and the engine responds like rolling gravel.It is, however, a solid performer. I was surprised it hits 100km/h in more than 10 seconds because it feels quicker. You also have to watch the cruising speed because it'll creep up and easily put you outside the law.On-road handling is excellent and reflects the Passat's solidity and confidence. That's backed up with all the top-end safety gear including stability control and six airbags.In the dirt the Scout competes directly with the Subaru Outback, though the Skoda's Haldex drive system allocates power to all wheels in a more effective way than the Subaru system of braking the tractionless wheel.Both cars, in fact, are very similar in their ability. Both could do a beach run with enough tyre rubber to allow deflation, though both have limited ground clearance.  Firm sand, gravel tracks and some mud should be the limits in both cases.The Scout gets a superb list of standard features to more than justify the price - including iPod-compatible audio, cruise control and trip computer - and it's only bugbear is the lack of an automatic gearbox and, sadly, its name. Buyer haven't yet caught on to this car and that's a shame.Rating: 83/100

As any first-year marketing student will tell you, a new product must have a USP if it's going to succeed. Frustratingly for some brands it can take time for its unique selling points to be truly appreciated by the market.Skoda is a good case in point. The Czech brand's key selling points are solid engineering, borrowing heavily on its VW links, quality and delivering big on value for money.Skoda is a big seller in Europe, but here it remains a niche player; still a little known brand with unknown models. But Skoda has the firepower to impress. Its in the form of the RS — the sports version of its volume seller Octavia — and it has the merit to be a sales hit, but it remains a sleeper in the market, accounting for less than 20 per cent of Octavia's modest volume.But Skoda's battle to build excitement in its model mix took a giant step forward this week with the launch of the face-lifted RS. The Skoda dragon has woken and been stirred into action. The RS range has been diversified, offering buyers a wider choice of petrol or diesel engines and manual and manu-matic DSG transmissions.The latest RS neatly ticks two of the important marketing boxes: it packs performance without sacrificing fuel efficiency and it comes with a comprehensive list of standard equipment at a price which doesn't break the bank.Skoda Australia boss Matthew Wiesner says he finally has a range of RS models to win incremental sales. "We were handicapped by the previous RS in that we could only offer a manual petrol version. Now we have petrol and diesel, manual and the DSG and in liftback or wagon. It will probably still only account for 20 per cent of Octavia sales but that model is showing healthy growth, so it's all incremental. "What the RS does is add another layer to our model mix. It will attract younger buyers and even female buyers, which is what we need to expand."DrivingThe new RS's styling belies its potency. Here's a versatile liftback or wagon which successfully does double duty as a performance car and family bus. A wolf in sheep's clothing? Not quite, because the clothing gives a hint there's something here with more than average driveability.The RS comes to the party with lowered and stiffer suspension, new front and rear lamps, including for the first time, daytime LED running lights, 18-inch alloys, sports seats, alloy pedals, obligatory rear wing, chromed twin exhaust pipes and red-painted brake calipers. They all neatly lift the otherwise homely appearance of the Octavia. But if you are looking for the petrol or diesel badges to tell the RS twins apart you won't find them.Skoda has delivered two models which between them have an impressive set of numbers — starting with the price from $37,990, up just $300 on the previous version. That gets you into a Euro import with plenty of solid German engineering and better than expected Czech build quality.There's a generous level of standard bling for the money including dual zone air conditioning with air quality sensing, remote central locking, six-stack MP3 audio system, heated front seats, rain sensing wipers, rear park sensors and multi function trip computer. On the safety list you can tick the boxes for six airbags, advanced anti-lock brake system, traction and stability control and onboard tyre pressure monitoring. Luggage space in both the liftback at 560 litres and wagon 580 litres with rear seats up.Options include sunroof, front park sensors, satellite navigation with 30GB hard drive which replaces the CD stacker, Xenon headlamps and leather upholstery. The hardest choice for buyers is picking the petrol or diesel.There's an interesting balancing act here: the gap has narrowed between traditionally slower but more frugal diesels and the quicker but thirsty petrols.Skoda says the turbo-packing direct-injection petrol version can hit 100km/h in a claimed 7.3 seconds which is 1.1 seconds quicker than the diesel, but for a diesel a sprint time of 8.4 seconds for a vehicle which tips the scale just under 1.5 tonnes and is 35kg heavier than the petrol version is no embarrassment.The petrol version delivers peak power of 147kW over a 900rpm band, with maximum torque of 280Nm available from 1800 to 5000 revs, that's a huge broad band, giving the RS strong and long legs.The petrol version delivers where it counts. For a performance car the RS shows few vices: it feels well balanced, there's a degree of expected understeer which gets more aggressive as speed rises; only the brakes could benefit from more stopping power. But I just love the diesel alternative as well.It has a different driving dynamic but it probably is the better car to live with, especially if you do a lot of country running, that's to its massive low to mid range torque and good fuel economy. The secret is to keep the revs up.The diesel, now the most powerful in Skoda's range, sips a claimed 5.9l/100km for a mix of city and highway running compared to the petrol's 7.7l/100km.The common rail turbo diesel delivers 125kW, but its secret is the fat 350Nm of torque on tap from 1750 to 2500rpm. There's some turbo lag, but for a diesel, the engine is remarkably quiet so there's little of the old fashioned rattle and chatter.My pick? The diesel is impressive, but my choice is the petrol wagon. It offers the best of both worlds — a family-sized and versatile load carrier with potent performance. That's hard to ignore.

We'd only just gotten some wheel-time in the old Skoda Octavia when the new one appeared. Some driving in the outgoing Octavia and its Scout sibling and we had come away impressed - particularly the latter, which was a good all-rounder.The first taste of the new-look car is an Octavia TSI DSG petrol wagon. The looks from the front are more mainstream, something its predecessor had a crack at but didn't quite achieve.The loadbox over the rear axle isn't exactly inspired by a Jennifer Lopez or Beyonce derriere - hearse-like design is perhaps a little more apt. But from inside the car you don't have to look at it and if you didn't look aft you probably wouldn't have any sense of being in a load-lugger.It's a light and easy car to drive, with the little direct-injection powerplant giving plenty once it's overcome a combination of the DSG and turbo hesitations — something that is still a problem for the VW group and others opting for double-clutchers — but there's been plenty of improvement.Clever induction and turbocharging provide 118kW of power from 4500 to 6200rpm, but there's also a good spread of torque on offer between 1500 and 4500 — 250Nm, which delivers decent in-gear acceleration as well. The only bugbear is that it prefers to drink 98RON premium unleaded, but it sips it a fairly frugal rate — we got 8.7l/100km, not too far away from the 6.7l/100km that the car is rated at for the Australian Design Rules.There are some clever storage features in the centre console and the boot — while it's not the car's best angle — offers good storage capacity as well. Pitch a pram, belt a bag and sling a suitcase in the back and there's still enough room — a trip home for the airport after an extended absence required three large suitcases, one smaller one, plus other assorted bags and a stroller were slotted into the wagon.Cabin space is enough to accommodate four adults in comfort, or mum, dad and three offspring will fit without any issues — although the territorial arguments in the rear will probably still be heard.The TSi is a front-wheel driver but has stability control and six airbags — dual front, side and curtains for front and rear passengers.Style gurus will probably look for form over function in this market, but those with even a hint of practical leaning (and any sort of budgetary limits) should have the new Octavia on the shopping list. Near the top. 

The sporty RS, for Rally Sport, will continue to be available as a sedan and wagon — Combi in Skoda-speak — with the same 2.0-litre TSI petrol and 2.0-litre TDI engines.VW Group Australia spokesman, Karl Gehling, says Skoda wants to lift interest in the RS locally, which until now has had modest success. Both the VW-sourced petrol and TDI units are proof Skoda is on the right track.ExteriorWhat a difference a new grille and headlights make. Like the Octavia models, the RS benefits with some beneficial styling tweaks ahead of the A-pillar. The bonnet is more pronounced, thanks to some sharp crease lines and the headlights and grille look more purposeful. The honeycomb lower air intake also looks good.As a result, the whole front end looks more dynamic and less conservative than the old model. The rear end gets new tail-lights and a more defined bumper.Inside the cabin gets better materials for a higher quality finish, new centre console and heating controls, as well as a new three-spoke multi-function steering wheel. The heavily bolstered sports seats have new trim.PricingAlthough we're still a few months away from the arrival of the RS, Skoda Australia expects the newcomer to come in around the same prices as the current car. That means a starter around $38,000 for the 2.0-litre TSI manual, topping out around $44,000 for the 2.0-litre TDI wagon.EquipmentRS buyers can expect a 13mm lower sports suspension with stiffer spring rates, stability control, 17-inch Zenith alloys, boot spoiler on the sedan, sports seats and pedals, climate control airconditioning, three-spoke leather steering wheel and for the first time LED daytime driving lights.Safety gear includes six airbags, active front head rests, tyre pressure monitoring, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake pressure distribution and traction control. A six-speed DSG gearbox will be optional.DrivetrainThe engines and transmissions carry over. Volkswagen fans will love the silky 2.0-litre TSI four cylinder and 2.0-litre TDI, both of which are mated to six-speed manuals or the six-speed DSG gearbox driving the front wheels. Both engines comply with Euro V emissions requirements.The TSI pumps out 147kW from 5100 to 6000 revs and 280Nm from 1700 revs while the TDI manages 125kW at 4200 revs and 350Nm from 1750 revs. The TSI gets 7.5 litres/100km combined while the TDI delivers 5.7 litres/100km. The TSI wins the acceleration stakes with a zero to 100km/h time of 7.2 seconds for the six-speed manual, while the TDI is not too far behind with 8.3 seconds.DrivingVisually, the hotter Octavia benefits from the styling updates of the Octavia range but the 17-inch Zenith alloys really do set the car off. However, look closely and you won't be able to tell the TDI from the TSI. There are no badges to distinquish the pair and it’s only when you fire up the TDI that you realise it's a diesel.On the road, the TDI exhibits some turbo lag low down, which is annoying if you want to press on or are winding through mountain passes. The trick is to keep the turbo “on-song” by selecting a lower gear and then change up early to use the available torque of the TDI.Handling wise, the RS is bias to a predictable and progressive understeer. It's never a problem and most average drivers will back off before the understeer becomes a problem. Apart from the understeer, the RS has a wonderfully balanced chassis and will reward a driver who is smooth and in-tune with the car's handling and its limits.The ride is firm but not uncomfortably so and at high-speeds on the Autobahns it was rock solid and the cabin quiet. Buyers will not be disappointed with either engine. But the TDI proves that it is more than competent to wear the RS badge of honour.For more detailed drive impressions, see your Carsguide print section or check back here in a few days.

It's not really a surprise because Skoda is, despite its place in the giant Volkswagen Group, an unproven newcomer in Australia.The Czech carmaker has actually been around for more than 50 years, and had its last big sale surge downunder in the early fifties, but is battling to find its followers in 2009.Which explains a total rethink on its hero car - the family-focussed Octavia - and a new price point for the new year.A $3000 price cut and a stronger emphasis on quality are the driving forces for the updated Skoda Octavia.Skoda has also changed the engine direction on its starter car, trading a turbodiesel for a high-tech petrol-powered Octavia as it cuts the entry level from $29,990 to $26,990. But it is only a 1.6- litre four.The new price leader still comes extremely well equipped, with everything from aircon and alloys to power steering and CD sound, but it's a value push which must also run up against some heavy hitters including the Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus and Mitsubishi Magna.Skoda says its trump card, at least with people who are prepared to put it on the shopping list, is a package that is virtually the same as a Volkswagen Golf but with much better value.There is a new hero car, too, at least until the Octavia RS gets a similar makeover to the shopping cars in the second half of the year.It is a 1.8-litre TSI with turbocharging and direct fuel injection. It is also available with a seven-speed DSG manu-matic gearbox, with a price from $31,490.The flagship still has a 2-litre turbodiesel engine, with pricing from $33,990.As usual, the Octavia comes as both a liftback and wagon, and the body changes for the new model are modest. Lamps and a little more, but nothing like a full model change."The focus is on refinement. The old car wasn't that bad, no it was good, but this is better," the head of Skoda in Australia, Matthew Wiesner, says."It's in line with how we're evolving. We're premium, with value. And this lifts us to the next level."Skoda is actually running against the sales trend after two months of 2009, improving its year-over-year results by about 7.5 per cent when the overall market is down by 15 points. The Octavia is making the running, although the funky Roomster is also in the mix and there are evolving plans for the luxury Superb and the compact Fabia further into the future."It's simple, it's honest, it drives well. The Octavia is still a medium-sized car, but with this price we're driving down into the top end of the small-car market. We're pushing down, not driving up," Wiesner says.He admits Skoda has done better with its higher-priced niche cars, particularly the Octavia RS, but needs to convert more customers to create the critical mass essential to success. Even so, he is not about to get into predictions."We don't mention targets. You look at volume, yes, but also how the brand is evolving," he says."Would we have liked to sell more cars last year? Yes. Definitely. But we had to try a few things, we had to test the market.""Now we are moving to the next level."DRIVING:A blindfolded test drive in the latest Octavia would peg it as a Volkswagen. Or maybe an Audi.So it's a good car and the new price makes it a good deal.The cabin quality is first class and a match for Japanese cars at a similar price, the chassis is solid and stable, and the mechanical packages work well. Even the $26,990 car comes with six airbags, ESP stability control and a new-style sound system that morphs into a satnav display in the higher models.Skoda claims the car is a half-size about the $20,000 compacts, but it is really a Golf with a bit more boot space. It's a quibble, but it needs to be said.The DSG gearbox is also a bit jerky, as I have found in the latest Volkswagen Golf, particularly when parking or trying to ease away on a slight uphill grade.And the 2-litre diesel gets along well with heaps of torque, but is well behind the class leaders on refinement. In short, it rattles.The performance of the 1.6 is nothing special but the 1.8 petrol motor goes well and is well matched to a car with a lot of cornering grip for a family hauler, the seats have good support, and there is a lot of standard equipment.In reality, the updated Skoda workhorse - both sedan and roomy wagon - is a reworked Volkswagen that happens to be built in the Czech republic. It's a good car that should do better in Australia, and will do better once people are prepared to take a (slight) risk on the brand and badge.The sharper new price could be just the right bait to land them.Price: from $26,990 to $38,290Body: five-door liftback, five-door station wagonEngine: 1.6-litre four cylinder petrol 75kW/148Nm; 1.8-litre four cylinder petrol 118kW/250Nm; 2-litre turbodiesel 103kw/320NMTransmission: 6-speed manual, 7-speed PDKEconomy: 7.8L/100km (1.6); 6.7L/100km (1.8); 5.7L/100km (2.0)Star rating: 7/10

That about sums up the fortunes of Volkswagen's other brand in Australia.And, after driving the latest Octavia, you've got to wonder what it is the Czech arm of company has go to do to get across the line?The cars look terrific, perform very well and outpoint the opposition in almost every department — but the company is still struggling to register a blip on the Aussie radar.Maybe the simple truth is that there's nothing it can do to get noticed? Maybe it's just got to keep plugging away, making sure to dot the i's and cross the t's — maybe it's just a question of time.The new Octavia, available in liftback and wagon forms, is a quantifiably better car than the one it replaces, particularly the way the cars are finished inside.At the same time it has lost none of the sporty dynamics that come with a company that has a long history in motorsport.Drivetrains and pricePrices for the new Octavia start at $26,990 for the 1.6-litre liftback, a car that looks like a sedan but is actually a hatch with a rear that opens to reveal an enormous boot.The engine itself is a lift from the previous Golf and is paired with a five-speed manual in standard form, replacing the previous 1.9-litre diesel entry level model.A six-speed auto is optional.That's $3000 cheaper than before and the price might just be low enough to hook some small car buyers, looking to step up to a Euro.You can argue that its hand me down Volkswagen technology, but it's still very good technology nevertheless.The real jewel in the Octavia crown is the new 1.8-litre turbocharged four cylinder petrol model with its brand spanking new 7-speed DSG transmission. The 1.8 is also available with a six-speed manual.The engine has been seen in some Audis before, but the robotised twin clutch manual is the very latest technology, filtering through the Audi and Volkswagen lineups as we speak.It's capable of delivering an impressive 6.7 litres/100km in fuel economy.The third engine that rounds out the line up is the 2.0-litre TDI turbodiesel, another lift from Volkswagen but not the latest one, delivering 103kW of power and 320Nm of torque and 5.7 litres/100km. It's also available with a six-speed manual.We got to drive both the petrol models at the launch of the new Octavia this week in Adelaide.The car has been freshened up with new lights front and back, larger exterior mirrors and a bolder radiator grille.But it's the higher standard of finish inside where the changes are most noticeable.With 75kW of power and 148Nm of torque, the 1.6 is never going to set the world on fire — but it's not disappointing either.DrivingOur test car was the 1.6 manual. If you're in the market for a Euro, only interested in getting from A to B and it's in your price range, then look no further.The clutch and gear change are light and easy to use, and once you get the hang of it — it's easy to drive around the engine's lack of torque by piling on the revs.The 1.8-litre turbocharged engine produces 118kW of power and 250Nm of torque and, paired with the DSG transmission, can whisk from 0-100km/h in 7.9 seconds.At 6.7 litres/100km, it produces even better economy than the smaller 1.6.Performance from the turbocharged engine is reasonably strong, with maximum torque available from 1500rpm, but we found the ride a little floaty when pushed hard.It misses out on paddle gear shift buttons which have probably been reserved for the sportier RS model later in the year.The previous Octavia had a four-star safety rating, but this one with the addition of curtain airbags is expected to score a full five stars when it is tested.Standard equipment includes six airbags, anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control.There's also cruise control, a trip computer with distance to empty and audio controls on the multi-function steering wheel.An AUX input for audio devices is standard across the range, but if you want full iPod compatibility it's going to cost you another $240 for the mobile device interface.

The Czech-built Octavia RS has been enlivened with a new diesel engine.Engines Until now, the sports orientated RS lift back and wagon only came packing a turbocharged 2-litre 147kW four-cylinder petrol motor, combined with a six-speed manual transmission .That's all about the change.Buyers looking at reducing their fuel bill can now opt for a performance-orientated Octavia RS TDi with a frugal 2-litre common rail turbo diesel - coming from Skoda's parent, Volkswagen which has also fitted it, in various states of tune, to the Tiguan, Golf, Passat and Jetta.In the Golf it develops 103kW, but in the Octavia RS there's a much healthier 125kW to play with and as such is the most powerful diesel offered by Skoda to date. There's a choice of a six-speed manual or for the first time, an optional six-speed VW sourced dual clutch `manu-matic’ (DSG) - something we have already seen throughout the VW family.From February, the automatic DSG will also be offered in the petrol RS; the 2009 update for both petrol and diesel models also brings audio controls and paddle shifting on the steering wheel.Styling It's not all good news though: the bland styling of the RS Octavia is now four years old and it shows, but it's Down Under duty has been extended by Skoda until the third quarter of next year when it will be replaced with a heavily face lifted version showing a much stronger styling to match its sporty persona.Transmissions While future bread and butter Octavia models will next year feature a seven-speed DSG, the RS will retain the six-speeder because the seven wasn't designed for a high torque engine.Pricing The diesel version of RS went on sale this week, sharply priced at $39,490 for the manual lift back and $41,790 for the DSG manual/auto. That's a $2000 premium over the petrol version. The diesel wagon starts at $41,490, with the DSG priced at $43,790.Equipment Standard kit on the diesel RS includes lowered suspension with stiffer spring ratings, stability control, 18-inch alloys, boot spoiler, sports seats and pedals, three-spoke leather steering wheel and go-fast looking red-painted brake calipers.Safety Safety gear includes six airbags, active front head rests, anti lock brakes with electronic brake pressure distribution and traction control.DRIVING A few years ago, if you mentioned the words `diesel’ and `sports’ in the same sentence people thought you were, well, balmy.But as a succession of European brands has shown in more recent times you can successfully marry an oil burner with enough performance to raise your blood pressure. Call it the smile factor, and Skoda's RS TDi leaves you grinning.The stop watch aptly tells the story here; the 2-litre diesel, at 8.4 seconds, is just 1.1 seconds slower from zero to 100km/h than its 2-litre turbo petrol RS cousin; not shabby at all considering acceleration from a standing start has traditionally been a diesel's downfall. Remarkably, if you believe Skoda's specification list, the diesel mysteriously weighs up to 40kg less than the petrol version which may explain why the sprint times are so close.OK, the petrol engine does win out on terminal speed at 240km/h against the diesel's mere 225km/h but, as any copper will tell you, that's an irrelevant yardstick nowadays.Where the diesel excels - and should appeal to green-at-heart family buyers - is on fuel economy and exhaust emissions: the diesel is rated at 5.9l/100km; the petrol can only manage 8.1l/100km. The diesel, thanks to its particulate filter is cleaner too, producing 155g of CO2 at the tailpipe per kilometre; the petrol is rated at 193g/km.But stat sheets are one thing; driving the RS TDi is another and, not surprisingly, it doesn't disappoint, on both the road and racetrack.Adding common rail technology to the new engine (instead of the single point Pumpe Duse system in the old engine) has substantially reduced noise and vibration levels to a point, at times, you have to think whether you are driving a diesel or petrol. Looking for a badge on the boot won't help either - there's nothing to tell the diesel from the petrol apart from engine noise at idle.The diesel still shows a lot of turbo lag which is annoying if you want to press on, and there's a degree of predictable understeer to contend from this front wheeler with a lot of weight over its front axle. But the RS shows a wonderfully balanced chassis and refinement which adds to the driving enjoyment.The RS doesn't provide wild child performance; but it will satisfy most drivers. It's a solid, quality built car offering plenty of value for money.What the RS lacks is a styling package which has the ability to turn heads - painting the brake calipers bright red and adding a mild aero kit doesn't cut it - which neatly sums up Skoda's problems in getting attention in this country as it tries to reestablish the brand.

Be prepared: it's the motto of the Scouting movement and could just as easily be applied to the Scout, Skoda's entry into the compact sports utility vehicle market.Based on the Octavia 4x4 wagon, the Scout is aimed at those who want a refined yet rugged vehicle with the practicality of a station wagon. That is, a model that is prepared for almost anything.The Octavia Scout 4x4 has been developed to be as happy on the street as it is in mud, sand, snow, or on gravel.Key to this flexibility lies in its second-generation Haldex clutch, which allows power to be transferred between the front and rear wheels when it is required, reacting faster than the first generation mechanism giving better traction on loose surfaces.And with 180mm ground clearance and 17in Proteus alloy wheels, there's little terrain that can stop it in its tracks.Power to the wheels comes from the tried and tested Volkswagen 2 litre TDI turbo-diesel engine with particulate filter as standard producing 103kW of power and 320Nm of torque via a six-speed manual transmission.Acceleration from zero to 100km/h is a claimed 10.2 seconds, with a top speed of 197km/h.The Scout is said to use 6.6 litres of fuel per 100km (43 miles per gallon) on the combined urban/highway cycle from a 60 litre tank and put out 178g of carbon dioxide per kilometre.It will tow a trailer with brakes up to 1600kg, 650kg without.At 4581mm, the Scout is 9mm longer than the standard Octavia 4x4 wagon and is 15mm wider and 17mm higher at 180mm, making the ground clearance 40mm greater than the two-wheel drive Octavia.It also looks very different from its sibling with chunky bumpers at the front and rear, moulded side protective strips and profiled door sills, all giving greater protection for the bodywork.Black roof rails reinforce the practical nature of the vehicle, as do circular fog lamps below the headlights.Protective wheel-arch strips, unique kick plates on the front door sills and sump guards below the front and rear bumpers are all standard. A four-spoke multifunction steering wheel, gear lever and handbrake are trimmed in leather, while special seat fabric and a grab handle on the dashboard ahead of the passenger seat are unique to the SUV.The wagon gets a swag of standard equipment including heated front seats, dual zone air-con, electronic stability control, six airbags, rear acoustic parking sensors, cruise control, twin chrome exhausts and unique Scout touches throughout the cabin.And the generous 580 litres of rear cargo space can be increased to 1620 litres with both back seats folded flat.Cargo can be anchored down by means of an expandable net and a privacy cover retracts at a single touch.During a drive in the Victorian Alps over bitumen, gravel and in mud, the Scout proved to be all it claimed and more.As well as producing a comfortable ride under sometimes trying conditions, the car never once lost its footing.The cabin was welcoming and quiet, with little intrusive engine sound, and minimal road and wind noise even at the legal speed limit.Altogether it's a surprisingly functional and smart package which, at a starting price of $39,990, takes it right up to rivals for value and versatility.Options include Columbus satellite navigation ($2490) and the usual additions such as sunroof ($1730) Alacantara and leather seats ($2490), xenon headlights ($1730) and front park distance control ($490).The Scout could suffer some initial sales resistance due to the fact there is no automatic gearbox on offer.But it is already on a winner with former world surfing champion and Gold Coast resident Mark Ochilupo about to take delivery of one as a Skoda ambassador.