Skoda Octavia Ultimate Review, Features, Price, Models, Insurance & Lots More

Up front, for instance, the Octavia gives you a proper road presence.

Here, its updated front grille is much wider and more sculpted than ever before, which is helpful as it is framed by some very stylish LED headlights that give it a very crisp and modern look.

The grille’s detailing also ties it in very nicely here with the rest of the Volkswagen Group family of cars while still keeping that distinctive Skoda identity.

This is then supported further thanks to its bonnet’s clean lines, which run smoothly into the A-pillars, adding to that confident stance the car gives you overall.

It is not aggressive, but it does scream that it means business in the best kind of way here.

From the side, Octavia’s body style shows off its length and low stance here.

There is a kind of lovely clean shoulder line that runs the full length of the car, giving it that sense of motion even when it’s parked into its design.

The shape also feels purposeful, with just the right amount of flair in the sculpted doors and sharp window frames as well.

This is then supported really well, thanks to its ride height, which sits really neatly - low enough to feel sporty but high enough for everyday practicality, for instance.

Overall, it is that sweet spot that really helps it stand out from its rivals, such as the Vauxhall Astra or even the SEAT Leon, for example.

The roofline of the Octavia then flows effortlessly towards its rear, giving you a car that is streamlined, almost with a fastback-like feel.

However, it is not just there for looks either - it really does help with the car's aerodynamics, which in turn improves your overall fuel efficiency by doing so.

On the hatchback models, this design also gives you loads of boot space without the car looking bulky in the process - something that can not be said for other cars in this class.

Overall, it is a design that says, “Yes, I can carry all your gear - and still look sharp doing it.”

Around the back, the Octavia keeps things tidy and modern.

Here, its rear lights are slim and angular, with LED detailing that adds a touch of class added in as well.

The badging is also well spaced out across the boot in that trendy, clean look that has become all the rage now as well.

Even the bumper has been carefully designed as well - not too sporty, but also not too plain - it is just the right level of proportions here.

Another thing that you will notice here is that the rear window is of a good size, too, giving you plenty of visibility - and on some models, there is also a neat little spoiler to finish things off.

The wheel designs across the trim levels are also properly well thought out too.

From the more subtle alloys on the SE Technology model to the sportier, blacked-out designs on the Octavia RS, there really is something for every taste.

While we are on the wheels, the wheel arches are not too chunky either, which really helps to keep the overall shape very sleek and refined.

So, whether you are into understated or a bit of sporty flair, the Octavia really does give you the options that actually suit the car, not just flash for flash’s sake here, for example.

Skoda’s always done well with colours, and the latest Octavia is no different here in our view.

For instance, you have got your classic silvers, whites, and blacks - but also some lovely richer tones like Race Blue, Velvet Red, and a very posh-looking Graphite Grey.

Some models can even get matte or metallic finishes, depending on your trim, preferences and any new car deals that are on offer.

For instance, here you have:

• Solid colour:
  • Energy Blue
• Exclusive colours:
  • Royal Green
  • Velvet Red
• Metallics:
  • Brilliant Silver
  • Moon White
  • Graphite Grey
  • Race Blue
• Pearl effect colour:
  • Black Magic
• Special colour:
  • Hyper Green

So, whether you want something smart and business-like or bold and head-turning, there really is a paint option for you that will hit the mark, in our expert opinion.

It is just one of those cars where the colour genuinely changes the personality a bit and helps you to stand out as a result.

The car also comes with some very nice, Crystal clear view LED Matrix headlights with a crystalline style.

Here, you get, for instance, 36 individual light segments that then adapt and block parts of their beam when needed to give you greater visibility of the road ahead, all without dazzling other drivers in the process.

In some models, you can also get an electrically adjustable panoramic sunroof, that really does help you to light up the interior while improving the feeling of airiness inside the cabin as it does so.

While the tinted glass then gives you maximum comfort, the front part of the sunroof can also be tilted or slid backwards to let more air into the car on those hot days as well.

The clear lights do not just stop at the front but continue to the back also, with some very beautifully sharp rear LED lights that also give you an animated indicator light - illuminating sequentially in the direction you are turning as well - which makes them look good to drivers behind you.

The Octavia also does not just lock and unlock when you touch any door handle; it also locks itself when you walk away with the key as well - for those times when you forget to lock the car after you get out - it has you covered.

At the boot as well, if you have got your hands full of shopping, no worries. Here, all you need to do is just wave your foot under the bumper, and the boot will open automatically for you.

In our view, when you step inside the Skoda Octavia, you will quickly realise it is a very nice place to be in.

It’s spacious, cleverly laid out, and feels properly high-quality.

Overall, Skoda’s always been brilliant at balancing practicality with comfort, and this interior absolutely nails that sweet spot really well.

So, whether you are popping to the shops or tackling a long motorway drive at high speeds, the Octavia will be a cabin that feels welcoming and easy for you to live with.

This welcoming feel is noticeable just from the front seats. Here, when you climb into the driver’s seat, you are immediately comfortable from the off.

The seats here are supportive, even on longer journeys, and higher trims come with extras like electric adjustment, lumbar support, and heated or ventilated seats, too - making it perfect on chilly mornings or those hot summer days.

They also give you some great visibility, and with features like an adjustable steering wheel and well-positioned physical buttons, it really is easy to find your ideal driving position quickly.

In our view, it is clear that comfort was a big priority here, and the Octavia certainly delivers here as every journey you can enjoy electrically adjustable, heated, ventilated and massaging front seats.

In the back, the Octavia is just as impressive as the front here.

Your rear-seat passengers, for instance, will get loads of legroom, making it ideal for families, road trips with friends, or even just carrying adult passengers comfortably on longer journeys.

The seats themselves are also nicely shaped and supportive, and even the middle seat is not bad for shorter trips as well.

Another thing of note is that you also get wide-opening rear windows, giving you a bright and airy feel to the back cabin, which is perfect for keeping everyone happy.

You can then transform the mood of your interior with LED ambient lighting as well.

For instance, here, you get a wide choice of colour options available to choose from depending on your mood - which come to life with a quick selection through the infotainment display.

Here you get lights that run along the dashboard, in footwells and in the front doors.

For your boot capacity in the Skoda Octavia, this is genuinely huge - it is one of the biggest in its class, for example - easily beating cars like the Ford Focus or the Toyota Corolla very comfortably.

For example, here, the hatchback version offers you around 600 litres of space, which jumps to nearly 1,555 litres with the seats folded down - fantastic if you are hauling furniture, making a trip to the tip, or doing a big shop.

If you then decide to choose the Skoda Octavia Estate, you get even more room - which is perfect for families, active lifestyles, or anyone who just loves a bit of extra practicality, in our view.

With the Loft interior, from the moment you sit down, you will feel right at home - at least we did.

Inspired by stylish living rooms, this gives you a timeless black and grey design that combines comfort with some very durability and easy-to-clean materials.

Here, for example, you can get black and grey fabric that creates a classic look - which is perfect for modern life.

The dashboard then features a stylish 'Narbe Ruby pad' and silver décor, which gives you a striking contrast, along with black floor mats and fabric door inserts - all of which really do a good job at rounding off the look here.

Moving to the lounge interior design, it is really hard to find a better name for this design than Lounge.

For instance, everything about this carefully detailed interior makes you and your passengers just want to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey.

The seats, for instance, are covered in a mix of microsuede, leather, and artificial leather, while the dashboard also has a microsuede finish with matching grey stitching.

As a result, you get some very nice, unique dark chrome décor on the doors - that completes the smart, stylish look overall.

However, if first impressions really matter to you, then you may want to upgrade to the Suite Black interior look, as this truly makes them count.

Here, for example, you get perforated black leather and artificial leather upholstery options, allowing you to travel in luxury and style every time you get in the car.

Black artificial leather also covers the dashboard and doors, combined beautifully with 'Carbonised cork' décor as well.

Overall, the Suite Black interior also comes with electrically adjustable front seats featuring ventilation and massage functions for extra comfort too.

Moving up another level, you can opt for the Suite Cognac interior design for the Octavia here. With this, luxury steps up another level, as it has been designed sustainably, as the cognac colour comes from a tanning process using leftover coffee husks.

The Suite Cognac interior also mirrors the Suite Black upholstery finish as well, but features a 'Diamond cut' décor, which is perfectly matched to the warm brown upholstery tones in our expert opinion.

The Octavia SportLine then looks just as sporty inside as it does outside.

For instance, as soon as you sit in, you are graced with some very nice looking recycled fabric and artificial leather front sports seats - allowing you to feel ready for action.

You also get some very nice, carbon-effect décor as well that really adds to the strong, sporty appearance of the car while keeping Octavia's famous practicality intact as it does so.

For example, it manages to keep this intact with some very exclusive black sports seats that have integrated headrests, black roof lining, and aluminium pedals - all of which make the interior feel even more sporty.

The three-spoke leather sports steering wheel is also a classic Skoda sports feature, adding another touch of exclusivity to this design too.

The vRS design is also inspired by standing out, leading the way, and matching the powerful feeling of the vRS engine with a dynamic interior.

Here, for example, you get some very nice front sports seats that are covered in fabric, with a carbon-effect décor, black roof lining, and exclusive vRS red stitching - all of which really do make sure the Octavia vRS looks and feel special both inside and out as an end result.

Moving on to the car's comfort features, here you get plentiful in the Octavia - with clever touches like dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, a wireless charging pad, and heated seats available on most trim levels.

Higher trims, as you will find out later on, also get even more goodies like a heated steering wheel, electric seat adjustments with memory functions, and ambient lighting, to name just a few.

Everything then just feels designed to keep you relaxed and comfortable, whether you are commuting to work or off on a weekend adventure in our view.

For your Head-up Display, you get a very intuitively designed system that helps you avoid distraction, as the head-up display shows you your key driving data in a way that's easy for you to absorb at just a glance.

Created in collaboration with German audio experts Canton, this set of 12 speakers and digital equaliser has been masterfully fine-tuned to amplify the listening experience you get from inside the Octavia giving you one very impressive audio experience on select models as well.

No matter where you are sitting – in the front or the back – there is also plenty of space to stretch out in the Octavia.

For instance, the back seats are especially roomy, so even taller folks won’t be banging their knees or ducking their heads.

It is also great for longer trips when you want everyone to be comfy as well, whether it's grown-ups, teens, or anyone in between everyone can here.

The back seats are really handy too – as they split 60/40, so you can drop one side or both if you need to squeeze in something big to the boot.

This is also perfect for when you have got a mix of passengers and stuff to carry, and get this – you can fold the seats down from the boot, so no faffing about by having to go into the middle row to do so as well - which is really useful when you are loading up in a hurry.

The boot is one of the Octavia’s best bits.

Here, for instance, you get 600 litres in the hatchback – that’s seriously big for a car of this class, and there is loads of room for suitcases, a pram, or even your mate’s golf clubs if needed.

If you then go for the estate version, there’s even more space available, so whether you are doing the weekly shop or heading off on a road trip, you're fine here.

Skoda’s really thought about the little things too.

For instance, here you get some big door pockets for your water bottles, a glovebox that keeps snacks cool, and plenty of handy spots for phones, keys, and drinks.

As a result, everything is right where you want it, which just makes everyday driving that bit easier.

All in all, these thoughtful touches really make everyday life with the Octavia just that bit easier - exactly what you want from a good family car, in our opinion.

Another awesome feature of Octavia's Dynamic Chassis Control.

This clever system keeps checking for you how you are driving and adjusts the suspension and steering automatically for you to give you a smoother ride.

Consequently, here you can choose from five different driving modes just by pressing a button in the centre console - so it's easy to match how you're feeling.

Then, if you fancy something sportier, there are the settings you need to give you a more exciting drive here, too.

Perfect for a top family car, the latest Octavia also comes with 'shift by wire' technology.

This feature then makes driving an automatic car very comfortable. For example, here, a small lever in the centre console does the work, deciding when to change gear for you and taking the strain off the engine at the same time - so you can just relax and enjoy the ride.

Tired of having to update your satnav, well fret no longer, as here you can always take the quickest route with regular map updates and live traffic info, all of which is available on the big 13-inch touchscreen as well.

If you then need urgent help, all you need to do here is just press the red button located on the roof lining to contact emergency services right away.

If there is also an accident, your Octavia automatically makes the call for you, helping you get the assistance you need quickly as well - a very handy feature to have.

One thing that is clearly thanks to the Volkswagen Group's engineering is that the Octavia handles things really well.

It grips corners with confidence, and the steering is light but accurate.

Then, when you add its adaptive cruise control, long-distance journeys are also more relaxed as well, especially with the available drive modes, as these let you tailor the experience to your liking.

Do you then want to go sporty?
Well, just flick it into Sport more.

Prefer a chilled vibe?
Then Eco or Comfort modes have got your back here.

Overall, suspension-wise, it is tuned more for comfort than track-day thrills, but that is exactly what most folks want from a car like this - it is nimble without being twitchy and super predictable, for example.

Noise Level in the cabin is then kept impressively low - even at motorway speeds.

This is achieved via some solid insulation in the doors, floors, and around the windows, all of which help to keep wind and tyre noise to a minimum.

Noticeable vibrations are also minimal, thanks to the well-balanced engine and smooth automatic gearbox design.

Consequently, even when you are driving with a full load of passengers, the experience remains refined, we found.

You will also hardly notice the diesel engine grumbling and the plug-in hybrid is nearly silent at low speeds, too.

All in all, it is a very refined experience in our view for a car of this class.

Here, the car will use its radar on the front grille. The Front Assist system then monitors how far away the vehicle ahead of you is, and you can even apply emergency braking if needed as well.

You can then stay safe by being alerted about vehicles in your blind spot, whether you are driving or just about to get out of your car.

For added safety, the Octavia has a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating and offers up to 10 airbags - with 8 just coming as standard - to help keep you as safe as possible in the worst-case scenario.

You can also automatically keep a safe distance from the car in front of you as well, and it even reads road signs and navigation data to adjust your speed ahead of you as well.

When you are turning, the Octavia has some front sensors that will detect oncoming traffic and automatically brake if necessary to avoid a collision from occurring.

All these features, and more, then mean that the Skoda Octavia has consistently received high marks in European NCAP crash tests.

With the latest version continuing that trend, scoring a strong percentage in adult and child safety alike.

This is all in part thanks to the car's solid engineering and host of electronic safety aids, which has earned its reputation as being one of the best cars in its class when it comes to safety.

For instance, even the base model includes some essential systems like traction control, hill start assist, and pedestrian detection for instance.

So, if safety is then a top concern for you - especially with a family onboard - you will find a lot to love here.

The tech in the new Skoda Octavia overall is just top-tier.

Right from the base SE Technology level, you get a big infotainment display that is paired well with a fully digital instrument cluster.

The system is also quick to respond and very intuitive as well.

Furthermore, you also get some very nice, more fancy features like gesture control, voice commands, and a wireless charging pad, all of which are available in higher trims.

These are then combined, with it having Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay - so you can stay connected without the cables.

You can also adjust your drive modes, check fuel type usage, or explore navigation - all from one slick central screen.

Overall, it is a lot of smart tech without being overcomplicated in the process.

For your navigation, this is built-in and reliable, giving you live traffic updates and multiple route options to choose from by default here.

If you then prefer apps like Google Maps or Waze, no worries - Wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay integrations have you covered.

Connectivity is also solid, too, with fast Bluetooth pairing, USB-C ports, and even online services like Skoda Connect available for you.

There is also a voice assistant available too, that helps with everything from the weather to changing radio stations.

So, whether you are listening to your favourite podcast or taking a call, it all sounds great through the premium sound system - honestly, we must say that it is really a breeze to stay connected and entertained with the new Octavia as you just have so many options to choose from.

One of Octavia’s standout features, which has carried over to the latest version, has always been its practicality - and that has not changed either.

For instance, there is loads of legroom for both your front and rear seat passengers - making long journeys comfy for everyone as a result.

The boot space is also just massive - one of the biggest in its class - which is perfect for those weekend trips, prams, pets, or a big shop.

The estate version (Skoda Octavia Estate) also gives you even more flexibility with a flat floor and foldable seats here as well.

So, whether you are hauling sports gear, camping kit, or just everyday stuff, this car can really handle it all with ease - it is truly a practical gem in the estate car world.

Comfort-wise, you are spoiled too.

For instance, here you get dual-zone climate control that comes as standard in most trims - keeping everyone happy whatever the weather.

The ventilated seats and electric seat adjustment in higher variants then make a real difference on long drives, too.

For instance, from the driver’s seat, everything is nicely laid out, with proper physical buttons for key functions, and it is all very ergonomic.

Even in the base model, you will find that your seat support is excellent, and your headrests are perfectly positioned.

All in all, there is a lot to love here, as it feels like a much more expensive luxury car once you are settled.

Plus, those rear windows are wide enough for great visibility, which is always handy as well.

Strong levels of comfort and safety come with the SE Technology, as this is provided both thanks to a number of interior features and intuitive driver assist systems, such as:

• Wheels
  • 16" Matar aero alloy wheels
  • 17" Rotary Aero silver alloy wheels including anti-theft wheel bolts
• Exterior
  • LED headlights with LED daytime running lights
  • LED rear lights
  • Chrome grille surround
  • Black window surrounds
  • Electrically adjustable, folding and heated door mirrors
  • Light & View Package
    • Rear view camera
    • Stylish rear LED lights with animated indicators and welcome effect functions
• Interior
  • Loft Design Selection (fabric upholstery)
  • Heated front seats
  • Two-spoke leather multifunction steering wheel with paddles for DSG
  • Silver squares haptic decorative inserts
  • Auto-dimming rearview mirror
  • Umbrella in door
  • Textile floor mats
  • Winter Package Plus
    • Heated steering wheel
    • Heated windscreen
• Entertainment and communication
  • 13" touchscreen display with navigation
  • Virtual Cockpit with 10.25" display
  • Wireless SmartLink for Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™
  • Wireless charging (15W) with cooling function
  • 4x USB Type C ports (2x front centre console and 2x in rear) (45W)
  • 1x USB Type C port in rearview mirror (charging only)
  • 8 speakers
  • Remote Access + Infotainment Online (3 years)
  • Voice control
• Comfort and convenience
  • Height adjustable front seats with lumbar support
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Dual-zone air conditioning
  • Cruise control with speed limiter
  • Keyless start/stop
  • Ice scraper
  • 12V socket in boot
• Safety
  • Driver alert (fatigue sensor)
  • Front assist
  • Lane assist
  • Turn assist
  • Traffic sign recognition
  • Tyre pressure monitoring
  • Curtain, front side, front central and driver knee airbags
  • Assisted Drive Package
    • Predictive adaptive cruise control
    • Lane assist plus
    • Emergency assist for DSG engines

Next up, we have the Skoda Octavia SE L, where this premium trim not only keeps you fully connected on the go but also helps you travel in absolute luxury, thanks to a host of comfort-enhancing features.

For instance, here you get a lot of standard equipment over the SE Technology, including:

• Wheels
  • 17\" Mensa aero alloy wheels
  • 17\" Rotary Aero alloy wheels (alternative, no extra charge)
• Exterior
  • LED rear lights with animated indicators
  • Chrome window surrounds
  • Rear privacy glass
  • Logo projection in front doors
• Interior
  • Lounge Design Selection (microsuede / artificial leather)
  • Suite Design Selection
    • Perforated leather and artificial leather upholstery (black or cognac)
    • Electrically adjustable front seats with massage and ventilation
  • Tactile lines waves decorative inserts
  • Two-spoke, heated, leather multifunction steering wheel with paddles for DSG
  • Ambient lighting
• Entertainment and communication
  • 13\" touchscreen display with navigation
  • Virtual Cockpit with 10.25\" display
  • Wireless SmartLink for Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™
  • Wireless charging (15W) with cooling function
  • 4x USB Type C ports (2x front centre console and 2x in rear) (45W)
  • 1x USB Type C port in rearview mirror (charging only)
  • 8 speakers
  • Remote Access + Infotainment Online (3 years)
  • Voice control
• Comfort and convenience
  • Predictive adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist
  • Drive mode selection
  • Electrically operated boot with Virtual Pedal
  • Keyless entry and start/stop
  • Heated front windscreen
  • Boot net programme
  • Electric sliding parcel shelf (estate only)
  • Variable boot floor (estate only, not for mHEV)
  • Winter Package Premium
    • Heated rear seats
    • Rear climate controls
• Safety
  • Lane assist plus with narrow lane assist, urban evasive steering support, and emergency braking for DSG engines
  • Electric child locks
  • Assisted Drive Package Plus
    • Self-parking into parallel or bay spaces

Next up is the Skoda Octavia Sportline, which comes with a lot of standard equipment over the SE Technology, including:

• Wheels
  • 18\" Vega aero black alloy wheels
  • 19\" Draconis black alloy wheels (upgrade)
• Exterior
  • Metallic paint
  • LED headlights with LED daytime running lights with high beam control
  • LED rear lights with animated indicators
  • Exterior gloss black sports styling including front grille, window surrounds, door mirrors and badging
  • Rear privacy glass
  • Gloss black spoiler
  • Gloss black roof rails (estate only)
  • Electrically adjustable, heated, folding and driver-side auto-dimming door mirrors
  • Logo projection in front doors
  • Chrome exhaust tailpipes
  • Panoramic sunroof (electrically adjustable and tinted)
• Interior
  • SportLine Design Selection (fabric / artificial leather upholstery)
  • Sports seats in front
  • Three-spoke leather sports multifunction steering wheel with paddles for DSG
  • Carbon effect decorative inserts
  • Ambient lighting
  • Aluminium pedals
• Entertainment and communication
  • CANTON sound system (12 speakers with digital equaliser)
  • 13\" touchscreen display with navigation
  • Virtual Cockpit with 10.25\" display
  • Wireless SmartLink for Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™
  • Wireless charging (15W) with cooling function
  • 4x USB Type C ports (2x front centre console and 2x in rear) (45W)
  • 1x USB Type C port in rearview mirror (charging only)
  • Remote Access + Infotainment Online (3 years)
  • Voice control
• Comfort and convenience
  • Rear-view camera
  • Drive mode selection
  • Progressive dynamic steering
  • Electrically operated boot with Virtual Pedal
  • Keyless entry and start/stop
  • Heated front windscreen
  • Boot net programme
  • Electric sliding parcel shelf (estate only)
  • Variable boot floor (estate only, not for mHEV)
• Safety
  • Lane assist plus with narrow lane assist, urban evasive steering support, and emergency braking for DSG engines
  • Electric child locks
  • Dynamic chassis control (DCC) - Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport or Individual modes
  • Assisted Drive Package Plus
    • Self-parking into parallel or bay spaces

Then you have the Skoda Octavia vRS, which is created for those who really do demand the best possible drive here.

For example, you get the Exclusive vRS styling that demands attention and a sports exhaust that creates a proper soundtrack, as well as:

• Wheels
  • 19\" Elias anthracite alloy wheels
• Exterior
  • Full LED Matrix headlights with daytime running lights, adaptive front light system and integrated fog lights with all-weather function
  • vRS bumpers
  • Black exhaust tailpipes
  • vRS suspension (15mm lower than standard Octavia)
  • Panoramic sunroof (electrically adjustable and tinted)
• Interior
  • vRS Design Selection (fabric upholstery)
  • Carbon effect decorative inserts
  • Tablet holder on the rear of front seats
  • Storage box in centre console
  • 2nd umbrella
• Entertainment and communication
  • vRS electronic engine sound
  • CANTON sound system (12 speakers with digital equaliser)
• Comfort and convenience
  • Predictive adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist
  • Electrically operated boot with Virtual Pedal
  • Keyless entry and start/stop
  • Double sided boot floor cover
  • Boot net programme
  • Three keys
  • Waste bin in door
  • Electric sliding parcel shelf (estate only)
  • Head-up display
• Safety
  • VAQ - electronically controlled limited-slip differential
  • Lane assist plus with narrow lane assist, urban evasive steering support, and emergency braking for DSG engines
  • Blind spot detection
  • Electric child locks
  • Dynamic chassis control (independent adaptive dampers for sporty driving)