The fourth generation Škoda Octavia is a car that is starting to be seen more and more often in bazaars. This model impresses not only with its modern design and technology, but also with the traditional values that are typical for Octavia – spaciousness, comfort and practicality. But how does it perform as a used car and what should potential buyers know before buying? Let's take a look at the main advantages and also a few minor pitfalls of this model.
The first thing that strikes you about the second-hand Škoda Octavia of the fourth generation is its still excellent spaciousness. This model, whether in liftback or station wagon body, offers a really large interior, which will be especially appreciated by families or those who often transport larger loads. The luggage compartment, especially in the estate version, is one of the largest in its class and offers enough space for most common necessities.
The ride itself is also very comfortable. For the fourth generation, Škoda decided to focus more on comfort than on a sporty character, which is evident on the car. The chassis is well-tuned, absorbs bumps and ensures a comfortable ride even on longer routes. However, this does not mean that the Octavia is clumsy - it is still a well-handled car that provides confidence in corners even at higher speeds. If you are looking for a car that can handle both highway movements and everyday city traffic, the Octavia 4 will not disappoint you.
The Octavia 4 is available in many different engines, with diesel and petrol versions being the most common. If you're considering a diesel, it's worth bearing in mind that modern diesel engines are much more complex than older units, such as the popular 1.9 TDI from the first generation. Nowadays, diesels are fitted with systems such as AdBlue, which adds more complexity and potentially higher maintenance costs. However, if you often drive long distances, the diesel version of the Octavia will offer you excellent consumption and very good performance. The basic 2.0 TDI diesel version provides an output of 85 kW, while the Sportline variant is available for more sporty drivers.
The diesel engines in the Octavia 4 are still reliable and proven, but it must be taken into account that if they are not regularly serviced, problems with emission systems, such as AdBlue or the particulate filter, may appear. These systems are sensitive to fuel quality and driving style. For drivers who tend to drive shorter routes, it may be more beneficial to look at the petrol version. TSI engines, such as the popular 1.5 TSI, provide solid performance and economical operation even in urban conditions. For lovers of sporty driving, the RS model is the ideal choice, which is equipped with a 195 kW two-liter petrol engine. This model offers a truly dynamic driving experience. And if you prefer maximum traction and stability, there is also a four-wheel drive version on offer, powered by a 150kW two-litre petrol engine.
One of the main attractions of the fourth generation Octavia are modern technologies that bring a number of useful functions to the car. For example, assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assistant are on offer. However, these systems can sometimes be too active and can become a little annoying, especially with the lane keeping system, which intervenes even in situations where you would like to have full control of the car.
As for the interior, the Škoda Octavia 4 offers a clean and clear design with a large touch screen that ensures control of most functions. The basic Active equipment level already brings decent equipment, which includes Full LED headlights, an analog instrument panel, 16-inch wheels with large covers, a PUR steering wheel and 7 airbags. In addition, you get cruise control with a speed limiter, assistants such as Front Assist , a system for maintaining a lane and recognizing fatigue. The interior offers manual air conditioning, power windows and heated mirrors, height-adjustable driver's seat and push-button start. The basic equipment also includes the 8.25-inch Swing infotainment with SmartLink function for mirroring smart devices and digital radio reception.
The Ambition version adds more advanced features to the basic equipment. These include dual-zone automatic climate control, a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, LED headlights and taillights. This grade also offers 16-inch alloy wheels, electric controls for all windows and exterior mirrors, a multifunction steering wheel, a small leather package and a larger 8-inch Swing infotainment system. Other safety features such as lane keeping assistants and fatigue detection are also present.
If you want something even more advanced, there's the Style trim level. Compared to the Ambition version, it adds keyless unlocking and locking of all doors, 10-inch Columbus infotainment with navigation, heated windshield, front LED fog lights, ambient LED interior lighting, heated front seats and rear parking sensors. Style also includes a practical net program with cargo elements in the luggage compartment, which will be especially appreciated by families and managers with greater demands on space. The highest equipment level is Style Exclusive. This version includes everything the Style version does, but with added features and better interior materials.
Despite the more complex technology that modern cars contain today, the fourth generation Octavia proves to be a very reliable car. Diesel engines, if properly serviced, can last hundreds of thousands of kilometers without major breakdowns. For diesel versions, it is important to follow regular maintenance such as changing filters and checking emission systems to avoid expensive repairs.
Petrol versions are slightly easier to maintain, although higher fuel consumption should be expected, especially with frequent city driving. All in all, however, the Octavia 4 offers low running costs compared to many competitors, be it diesel or petrol versions. If you are looking for a spacious and reliable car that retains good value even as a used car, the Škoda Octavia 4 is definitely a great choice.