What's the difference?
Once a solid mainstay on our roads, wagons have fallen out of favour somewhat as a result of the ever-growing popularity of SUVs and utes.
But is a wagon actually a better and more family-friendly daily driver than a bigger, taller SUV or ute? Perhaps.
And throw a mild-hybrid system into the mix and it could be an even more appealing purchase.
Skoda’s Octavia has built a strong following in Australia and now comes its new mild hybrid grade, available as a wagon or liftback.
So, what’s the Skoda Octavia Select mHEV wagon like as a daily driver for families?
Read on.
The Hyundai Sonata N Line is a sedan. Not a hatchback, not a fastback, nor a coupe and definitely not an SUV.
And even though only a handful of people in Australia buy the Sonata N Line each year it’s been updated with a completely different look and new technology, making it an outstanding car in many ways.
The thing is, because we’re obsessed with SUVs in Australia most people will never know how good this sedan is - unlike you.
So, let me congratulate you for making it this far. There’s probably so few of you I could possibly congratulate all of you in person. In an afternoon.
The big question is, though, is the Sonata N Line fit for Aussie families? Well, it scores well, but maybe not where it counts…
Let’s see what’s new and what the Sonata N Line can do.
The Skoda Octavia has always been impressive in wagon guise and this mHEV variant is no different. While the mild-hybrid set-up adds little to the Octavia package there’s still plenty to like about this wagon. It’s smooth and refined to drive, packed with features and has ample appeal as a value-for-money buy.
It’s no surprise if this wagon is at or near the top of your vehicle shopping list.
The updated Sonata N Line looks beautifully modern from its new face to the refreshed cockpit, while remaining a ‘driver’s car’ with good dynamics, and a sporty engine.
The Sonata isn’t an ideal family car, however. This is down to a lack of practicality. Although the cabin is fairly roomy, if that roofline wasn’t so coupe-like and cabin storage was better, and the boot had a large hatch opening, and the ride height was more elevated then it would be a great family car. Oh, I’ve just described an SUV.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with meals provided.