Skoda Octavia 1.6 TDI 105 CV, road test (Exterior design, interior and boot)

We continue with our protagonist these days, the Skoda Octavia, a car we have been testing with the 105 CV 1.6 TDI diesel engine. Everything about the engine, performance, handling and consumption we told you in the first part of the test.

In the second part we will analyse the renewed exterior look of the Octavia and the interior, with more than enough space for five adults, and indeed interior space is one of its greatest virtues.

Exterior design

In its new generation the Octavia has undergone significant exterior changes. The front now features the brand’s new design language, and the exterior lines have been simplified and sharpened, with simple strokes that define an elegant silhouette. The daytime running lights are bulb-type, but you can optionally fit xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights.

On the side profile the wheelbase is already apparent, which gives an idea of the space it offers inside. In addition, its 16-inch alloy wheels and the straight-lined mirrors with integrated indicators stand out.

The straight shapes can also be seen in the rear design, with straight-lined rear lights and the shape of the tailgate. It also debuts the new logo of the Czech brand.

Interior design, roominess and finish

The interior design is sober, with good finish. Some materials are soft and pleasant to the touch, with simple lines and a clean design, the radio presiding over the centre of the dashboard with the climate control beneath it.

The instrumentation is complete, with an on-board computer that offers all kinds of information about consumption, range, journey time and instantaneous consumption.

The driving position is good, low, with seats that are firm but comfortable when you cover several kilometres behind the wheel of the Octavia. The seats offer good lateral support without being sporty. Our unit also had manual lumbar adjustment and a steering wheel adjustable for height and reach (as standard).

Although without doubt the most outstanding thing about an Skoda Octavia is the space it offers in the rear seats, with enough room for three people, while two will travel very comfortably. It is one of the mid-size saloons with the most rear-seat space, on a par with a Volkswagen Passat or a higher-segment saloon.

In addition, rear occupants have air vents. The middle seat is the least comfortable because its backrest is firmer and the central tunnel is raised.

Storage and boot

As for storage spaces, it has two cup holders in the centre console and a slot where the ashtray goes. The door pockets are also spacious and, as a curious detail, the ashtray becomes a handy phone holder thanks to a slot designed to hold our smartphones (slim ones).

The boot has a capacity of 590 litres, which is a very good figure. It also has a wide loading aperture since the boot is not a hatch but opens with the glass, so we will have no trouble loading bulky items into this spacious boot.

In the third part of the test we will analyse the equipment, including the safety features fitted as standard on the Skoda Octavia, the prices and our overall assessment of the car.

Photos | Diego G. Moreira and test team

Technical specifications of this car

HatchbackSkoda Octavia24 versions · from 35,200 €