Test Drive Reviews

From a Woman's Perspective
by Rosie Cannone, East Anglian Daily Times, 27th May, 2000

When approached by Andy at T A Porter & Sons and asked to test drive the Skoda Octavia I had no hesitation in accepting the offer, the model I would be assessing features air conditioning and it has been awfully warm of late.

I took my place behind the wheel of my vehicle for the day; The Skoda Octavia 1.8 Turbo SLXi, a definite flagship to the Skoda marque, and available in hatchback or estate guise, I had the pleasure of cruising around in the estate version. Although obviously large I soon felt at ease enveloped in the plush leather driving seat. Leather upholstery is a standard feature on the SLX Turbo models as are the leather armrests, door trims, the steering wheel, bear lever and handbrake which all contribute to the impressive and exceptional looking interior. The upholstery is available in a host of colours to complement the exterior. The SLXi 1.8 Turbo radiates comfort and style with standard equipment including electronic climate control which I took a particular liking to, remote controlled central locking, driver and passenger airbag, CD player, ABS, tachometer, front and rear electronic windows with autostop. Intelligent features include a split folding rear seat, a retractable parcel shelf and a boot capacity of up to 1512 litres with power connections.

All the dials and controls fall easily to the hand ensuring maximum concentration remaining where it should. Further neat aspects are the height adjustable driving seat and steering wheel assuring the most ideal driving position to suit you as an individual. The innumerable equipment details in the SLXi have one sole purpose to make your journey as pleasant and relaxed as possible. The five speed gearbox allows you to reach 0-62mph in an impressive 8.5 seconds there is a 4 speed automatic gearbox option at just an additional £900. The Octavia was highly commended at the What Car? Car of the Year 2000 awards and is recognised as being a family car and it's no wonder as there is all round protection offered by all the safety aspects, it possesses torsion stiff bodywork and the reinforcements absorb the energy from frontal, offset and side impacts. Further evidence of the family friendly philosophy is the standard installation of the Isofix child safety seat system.

Although considered a family estate the 1.8 SLXi Turbo delivers both performance and economy, a vehicle that bounds down the motorway but manoeuvres quite easily and effortlessly through heavy traffic.

It is also equipped with multi point fuel injection for increased efficiency, cleaner exhaust emissions and smoother power delivery.

The most modern and up to date production techniques demonstrates the highest possible quality the 10 year galvanised bodywork warranty emphasises this. With an on the road price of just £17,999 for this particular model (the Skoda Octavia range starts from just £11,499 OTR). Skoda also guarantee 3 year unlimited mileage warranty, 3 years/45,000 miles servicing and 3 years free AA cover, further evidence of peace of mind. If the Octavia is beyond price range the Skoda Felicia starts from just £6,199 and the Skoda Fabia, What Car? Car of the Year 2000 has an on the road price of £7,999, both vehicles once again include the service package and AA cover. So whatever model you decide upon you're sure to make the best possible choice with a Skoda.