Motoring journalist, Tony Yates, recently tested the Skoda Octavia SE1.0 TSi (115PS).

Many people still say that a Skoda is nothing more than a cheaper version of a VW and of course I disagree with this very much. Skoda have proved to me over the last few years that they are an individual company who produce fantastic cars. I mean just look at the Octavia. It’s an awesome car and it deserves to be in the spotlight because it’s utterly brilliant in every way.

Power and Efficiency:

The 1.0-litre TSi petrol engine has a 0-62 time of around 9.9 seconds and a top speed of 126mph. Fuel consumption is also good, giving a combined figure of 50+mpg. So, firstly, how well does it get a move on. Basically, like a scalded cat if I’m being honest. I’m not kidding here folks, it’s astonishingly quick.

On the road:

The 115PS engine that was fitted to my test car was enthusiastic and pretty much perfect. Also, into the corners, the chassis feels poised and tight, even when dealing with all the potholes and bumps on some of our worst roads. Plus when the tarmac gets twisty, the chassis firms up to give you maximum grip in and out of every corner. The steering also feels light, direct and is perfectly balanced with plenty of feedback on what the road beneath you is doing.

Interior & Technology

First off - I’m so glad to see that the designers at Skoda have paid a lot of attention to the detail inside the cabin of the Octavia - thankfully it now feels more refreshing and modern than the previous model I tested a while ago. Also, the seats are really comfy and the controls are well set out. The Amundsen touchscreen satellite navigation system and digital radio is pretty good too. The only thing missing now for me is some soothing music tracks playing in the background.

On the inside; there’s plenty of standard equipment, which includes dual-zone air conditioning, cruise control, acoustic rear parking sensors, touchscreen satellite navigation system, driving mode selection (eco/comfort/sport/custom) and driver fatigue sensor

Plus you also get, ESC incl, EBV, MSR, ASR, EDS, HBA and DSR all as standard. That’s what I love about Skoda, they are not afraid to give you everything you will ever need, right there when you need it.

Space inside the Octavia is very good. The boot space alone is also huge, and you would have no trouble fitting in the whole family. Also, if you are looking to own the Octavia as a business car, then go and sign on the dotted line right now -– before they sell out.

To sum up:

I like the Octavia because its practical and fun to drive, it has bags of torque and plenty of space on the inside. Price: from £20,575.