Skip advert
Advertisement

Skoda Octavia

In this year's Auto Express Driver Power survey, 87 per cent of old-model Skoda Octavia owners said they would buy another

As with the conventional front-wheel-drive model, the Octavia 4x4 is a well built and practical load-carrier that offers surefooted handling in all conditions. It might cost £1,350 more than the equivalent two-wheel-drive model - and it's available only in estate form - but it has gener-ous equipment, and its ability when grip levels are low is very impressive. The 4x4 is a great value addition to the Octavia range, but most buyers will probably opt for a regular SUV instead.

Advertisement - Article continues below

In this year's Auto Express Driver Power survey, 87 per cent of old-model Skoda Octavia owners said they would buy another. The good news is the latest family car is better than its predecessor, and now there's a new four-wheel-drive estate version, powered by either a 1.9-litre TDI diesel or 2.0-litre FSI petrol engine. We headed to the Arctic Circle to find out if it adds to the Octavia's appeal.

Inside, the 4x4 remains unchanged from the front-drive models, which is no problem, because the interior impresses with its simplicity and practicality. The extra bulk of the 4x4 transmission has not affected the estate's boot capacity, either. The Octavia has permanent four-wheel drive, thanks to a Haldex clutch system, which sends 99 per cent of power to the front wheels in normal conditions, which will help fuel economy.

When traction is lost, drive is shared between the front and rear axles to provide the best grip, and the system's ability in the snow was very impressive.

Equally important is the fact that, despite the car's raised ride height and increased suspension travel, it behaves like a front-drive Octavia on the road, with body roll similar to the regular estate's. And even though the 4x4 system adds weight to the load-lugger, the 105bhp 1.9 TDI motor still provides decent performance.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Skoda Octavia

Skoda Octavia

RRP £21,530Avg. savings £2,612 off RRP*Used from £10,898
Skoda Superb

Skoda Superb

RRP £35,695Avg. savings £3,280 off RRP*
Skoda Scala

Skoda Scala

RRP £18,745Avg. savings £2,207 off RRP*Used from £8,995
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,540Avg. savings £4,891 off RRP*Used from £14,990
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Ford Kuga plug-in hybrid recall warns owners not to charge their cars
Ford Kuga - main image

Ford Kuga plug-in hybrid recall warns owners not to charge their cars

A new recall has been issued on the Kuga PHEV, warning owners of the potential for a ‘vehicle fire’
News
7 Mar 2025
Car Deal of the Day: top-of the range Vauxhall Grandland Ultimate for a mere £165 a month
Vauxhall Grandland - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: top-of the range Vauxhall Grandland Ultimate for a mere £165 a month

The Vauxhall Grandland shows you can have family SUV practicality for supermini prices - it’s our Deal of the Day for 8 March
News
8 Mar 2025
Goodbye Ford Focus: the end is nigh for family hatch legend after nearly 30 years
Ford Focus - front cornering

Goodbye Ford Focus: the end is nigh for family hatch legend after nearly 30 years

Ford’s family hatchback favourite is being axed as the brand focuses its efforts on EVs
News
7 Mar 2025