skoda road test reports and car reviews

Skoda Roomster Roomster S 1.4 Diesel 2009

Recognisably different, yet stylistically attractive enough to avoid worrying potential purchasers reluctant to try new things, the Roomster deserves to be judged favourably. Presenting the world with a non-utilitarian appearance, it manages to look reasonable from any angle - no mean trick with a vehicle as upright as this one. The competence of its body design shines through in terms of lots of interior space with a variety of passenger/load permutations. The Roomster is really a five-seater MPV that features a most intelligently designed and flexible interior offering as much space as a two-bed roomed semi. At the front is the ’driving room’ which provides a first class environment for the driver with comfy seating and excellent visibility. Further back you’re in the ’living room’ - a big area that is ’spot on’ for keeping passengers safe, entertained and relaxed. Juggle Skodas ’Varioflex’ seating system and in an instant you have the large cargo hold of a deep-sea freighter. This is a ’Captain Sensible’ car if ever there was one. However, I knew from the start that the Roomster was going to irritate cosy suburban sensibilities. "What is it?" Squealed a sententiously skewed neighbour. "It’s... it’s... unusual." But Skoda isn’t after the approbation of people who buy vacuum-packed Granny Smith apples from Marks and Spencer. This is practical non-conformist styling that’s a little bit daring - and I like that a lot. Being different, though, won’t sustain mediocrity, so I’m pleased to be able to report that in the quality stakes, standards are high. Shut the door, run your hands over the tightly woven fabrics which feel as if they have been recycled from expensive gentlemen’s sports jackets, try out the damped action of the controls. It all inspires confidence. This sense of integrity and solidity is detectable on the road too. The Roomster feels like a car you can trust. There’s a choice of engines from three petrol and three diesel and a choice of three specification levels: S, SE and Scout. with prices starting at just £10,445. Testing the S variant with the smallest diesel engine was quite a revelation. Only 1.4 litres and just 70bhp I mused: the starter motor on my ’superbike’ is more powerful than that. ’Better not head north with a load on board’ I said to myself: ’That’s uphill.’ How wrong I was. The torquey little motor ’pulls like a train’ and without cracking the whip, I was travelling, as briskly as any chap should - secure in the knowledge that fuel was being consumed frugally. Never ones to exaggerate, Skoda are surely conservative in their claims. 53.3 mpg overall, might be the figure attained when heading into a force nine gale - but your leaden-booted correspondent got nearer 60mpg. Those who love to swoosh about, cocooned in sterile silence in the latest diesel powered palaces which pretend to be magic carpets, might comment that this variant of Roomster is not as quiet as their usual inert 5 Series BMW diesel. Well it jolly well isn’t - but it is three million pounds cheaper, gets you from A to B as quickly these days and won’t lose as much money. I found that gruff, torquey little engine a total ’living’ delight. Uphill, down dale, loaded or unloaded it serves you well - just about giving enough ’go’ to let you enjoy the unexpected nimbleness on twisty roads. You can tackle serious journeys in a Roomster. Comfortable accommodation, loads of room, excellent visibility and a wonderfully cohesive air of commonsense about the overall design, make it one of the best ’real world’ travel accessories available. So - when the Roomster crows at the break of dawn, it’s time to be up and away!

Skoda Octavia Estate VRS Diesel 2008

After 4 years of running various Jeeps, the (lack of) fuel economy, Road Tax levy and service costs were beginning to hurt! Sitting with my wife whilst we bought her a Roomster, a six months old VRS Estate, a car used by the garages FD, lured me in its direction. Three days and a 1/2 day test drive later I bought it. I thought it would be ages before I could enjoy a family estate but it happened from the word ’go’. Great performance, especially where it matters. like overtaking, build quality as good as or better than the Jeeps, and averages 40mpg, without driving as if I’m always on an economy run! As I write it’s two years old, I’ve had it for eighteen months and, after twice getting stuck on snow covered roads I was hankering after a 4x4 again. Enter the Octavia Scout, I should pick up my new one next week, having lost hardly anything on the VRS. Only two insignificant gripes: The bonnet release handle is tack plastic and not up to the job, every other time I use it it falls off and needs a rebuild; Secondly, the tip of the dipstick is black plastic, nigh on impossible to see the wet/dry oil level mark!

Skoda Octavia 2000

Good mid size car that’s comfortable on motorways yet not too thirsty around town. Huge boot for carrying. Visibility for driver not as good as some other cars and electrics can be a little temperamental in older cars - e.g. central locking not reliable and windows may all go down as you walk away after parking up, (with no ignition on, so explain that!)

Skoda Fabia Estate 2009

Good car! Good ride!

Skoda Octavia VRS 2004

This vehicle, quite frankly, goes like stink! It sticks to the road, handles well round bends and accelerates just when you want (or need!) it to! Long distance fuel consumption is pretty good and is in fact better than some smaller engine size cars! Obviously if you’re hammering the hell out of it, the fuel doesn’t go so far! My only gripe would be that the front end is a little low to the ground, but as long as you’re careful, its not too much of a problem!

Skoda Fabia 2008

I love this car, my partner and I looked at a number of cars and models (including Ford and Vauxhall), but the Skoda ’capped’ them all. We purchased the Fabia 3 diesel turbo, which is the top of the range model with all round air bags, air con, parking sensors, blah, blah, blah... The most important factor (to me) was that I wanted a ’solid’ car, the mainstream variants all felt and sounded ’tinny’. I had two baby boys to consider in purchasing a vehicle, and the Skoda was seen by accident as I was looking at the Mitsubishi, but could not find the salesmen, so the Skoda salesman stepped in, gave us some information, took us for a test drive, and let us have a good all round look and feel of the car. It is not my usual car, it is not fast, but it is a very solid, stable, good looking car with a vert torquey engine that can and does pull anything. I am happy and confident of my baby boys position and safety in the car, which was paramount in my making the decision. I hope that this review is helpful, as the car is brilliant and we got an excellent deal.

Skoda Fabia Estate 1.4TDi 2 2008

We’ve had the car 9 months and everything was OK until the car suddenly died on my wife one night on a lonely country lane. The car was recovered to the dealer who said the clutch was burnt out. They would have to replace the clutch and the flywheel and would not be covered under warranty even though the car has only done 21k (we’ve done 7k in it). They said it was driver abuse but this is the first time in over 35 years of driving that either of us have had a clutch replaced. Apart from this the car has been excellent except in the recent snow when it was useless. One wonders if the clutch can handle the constant gear changing required by the gutless engine (see other reviews).

Skoda Octavia 1.9 tdi 110bhp 2000

I bought this car new and have covered 250,000 trouble free miles. It still has the original clutch! In that time I have replaced discs and pads twice, routine servicing only required and the only faults have been one door central locking failure and an auxilliary belt tensioner. It has averaged 65mpg and uses a set of tyres every 45-50,000. What else can I say except I’m passing it on to my daughter as I have ordered a new one.

Skoda Octavia Estate Scout 2009

Few marques have a history like that of Skoda. Once with a high-rolling image to rival anything, Skodas had the prestige and clout to make them the choice of kings. Now you don’t need a kings ransom to own one of the most complete cars you could think of. They’ve given us an improved and enhanced version of the standard Octavia 4x4 Estate which will set you back just over £21,000 - so ’be prepared’ for a good report. In revising the suspension - which is an all important consideration for country folk wishing to venture off the beaten track - and raising the ride height too, Skoda have raised the bar. With the Octavia Scout you’re in good hands. Any Octavia is synonymous with good value motoring and this version builds on that reputation. There’s all the confidence that comes from solid engineering; giving a car that’s suited to most requirements, on and off road. You can go where other estates would either shake themselves to bits over rough terrain or get bogged down in a puddle. Nowhere near as ’rufty tufty’ as a Land Rover or as ’mountain goat’ as a little Suzuki, of course, - but, nevertheless capable of taking you into areas where you would need green wellies and a Barbour jacket: we’re talking here of a ’proper’ country car. You get the feeling that this Scout car is always on the lookout for the driver and passengers comfort and convenience - a testimony to the conceptual planning that’s gone into it. Seats are admirably comfortable and the view from the driving seat is a good one. Light enough to be nimble; solid enough to be reassuring, this versatile transportation package will appeal to many. On motorways, distant horizons beckon: on twisty roads you’re firmly pegged to the ground. This is a sophisticated and refined ’real world’ car with quality to rival any BMW: surely Skoda are on the verge of establishing a new world order. Like all Octavias, the Scout is noticeably well equipped and well prepared for any task. A comprehensive standard specification includes everything from a sump guard to protect when off-road, through comfort features galore like dual zone climate control and special Scout upholstery (thankfully not in khaki), to stylish alloy wheels and solid looking side protection strips plus bigger bumpers for the rough and tumble that it’s likely to encounter - not to mention ESP, ABS, DSR and all the other GCSEs you can think of. A pleasant surprise is yours as soon as you are underway. The diesel engine is refined and has a good and accessible powerband so you know there’s enough power to tackle any situation within reason. Available with a 1.8 TSI petrol engine, generating 160bhp, or a 2.0 TDI PD turbodiesel with an output of 140bhp, both engines drive through a six speed manual transmission and four-wheel-drive Haldex clutch system - the best in the business. This transfers power between front and rear wheels as and when required. There’s even a ’Hill Hold’ control to stop you rolling backwards on a hill start if you’re one of those inept drivers who have poor car control skills. One would think that such sophistication would mean heavy fuel consumption, but I’m pleased to be able to report that my diesel powered test car retuned over 45mpg despite being able to whizz along an autobahn at over 120mph if we had gone to Germany - and cruise control is standard, to make life easy for you on motorway trips. Giving a smooth and quiet ride at all times,this is a car that is relaxing to drive over long distances - and if your journey has taken you into the wilds where boulevard cruisers baulk at the first hint of an unmetalled track, the Scout will get you through. So, loaded to the gunwhales with the contents of a pals flat, we drove to his remote cottage. The Scout was confidence inspiring as we crossed the bleak wilderness of Shropshire's Long Mynd as snow began to fall. These were treacherous conditions that left all ’ordinary’ cars slip - sliding wildly: the Scout took it all in it’s stride: we were well prepared to go anywhere. Taking advantage of the good ground clearance and broad spread of power we followed a dirt track and the competent quiet progress enabled us to enjoy the panorama of that vast landscape. The Scout is a vehicle that is highly competent offering engineering standards second to none - so it should easily survive the rigours of country use for years. I’m pleased to be able to tell you - the Skoda Scout is a good ’un: honest it is!

Skoda Roomster 2 1.9tdi 2007

I have now covered 93,000 miles, the only niggles are rear bearing failed at 80k and occassional issue with the radio where it is on but no sound until you turn the ignition off and on. I do a lot of long motorway runs all over the UK, it has handled family holidy in Scotland with no problems with the hills and tows my trailer for camping with the scouts easily. The economy averages about 52-55mpg, but careful driving can get 60+mpg, when around town I get 45-48mpg. Minor gripes I have about my roomster are 1:) the projector headlights are as good as candles, 2:) the lack of cover between the back seats and parcel shelf is a pain if like me you carry stuff in the boot for work. On the whole a good car, the way the back doors open wide is good for access, very comfortable on long runs but a little noisy on the motorway compared to some cars but is easy to service once the warranty has expired.

Skoda Octavia 1.9TDI 2009

I bought a new Skoda Octavia 1.9TDI ELG and love it, it’s the best car that I have ever driven. Before that I bought a new 2007 elegence petrol1.6, that too was just fantastic, it’s trouble free motoring all the time. Best cars ever, well done Skoda.

Responses to this review

I am expecting to take delivery shortly of a new Octavia 1.4se dsg give me a few weeks and I ll let you know my views on it. Thank you - David Graham from County Londonderry

Skoda Octavia elegance 2.0TDI DSG 2005

The review from Paul Talbot below reasonates with my experience. My prior car was an auto Omega 2.0 GLS and was a beauty to drive, I just didn’t like the electrical fauts it had. The Skoda feels like it is hewn from solid steel it really feels solid - a very reassuring feel when buying second hand. It’s overtaking ability is very good especially with the sutomatic box, and if you want to feel the urge from the 140bhp engine put the gearstick into sports mode and boot it. My wife and I love driving in town and on motorways. I feel a bit sorry for people who pay all that extra for a VW or AUDI badge, as Skoda are a now scoring higher in reliability surveys. Lot’s of TV adverts for VW and AUDI and none for SKODA ! I like the fact that you can set a variable warning bell for when you go over a certain speed, setting mine at 30mph has saved me from a speed camera ticket once or twice. The boot is bigger than the omega and that was big, the stereo is excellent too. The funny thing is I would never have considered buying one were it not for the fact that I needed a car urgently (the Vauxhall Omega died) and the main criteria were it had to be auto and diesel - apart from a Mondeo the Octavia was the only other choice at the time. I think a sign of a good car is that you look forward to driving it every day- the Skoda Elegance does that for me. The only criticism is that I can’t detach the rear aerial and although it folds flat I am dubious about using the local ASDA auto car wash. Can anyone advise?

Responses to this review

Stick the antenna to the rear window with a adhesive tape. This is how I solve that problem. By the way; I’m just about to replace my Octavia Elegance 1.8 20V T 2003 with a Octavia Elegance 2.0TDI DSG 2007. I hope I can cope with the fact that the 2.0TDI quite slower than the 1.8 20V T - Peter Wigen Bjarnų from Denmark

Skoda Roomster Roomster 2 TDI 80 2008

Ignore the silly fools, this is a good car, at a reasonable price which does what it is actually designed to do. Perfect for the medium family and very versatile and economical.

Skoda Octavia 1.9TDi Classic 2006

I bought this car second hand at a year old with 14,000 miles on the clock. When I purchased the car I didn’t realise that it had previously been a rental vehicle so if you’re considering purchasing one of this age / mileage, be sure to ask! I think these are in theory an excellent car, spacious, comfortable, economic, but I’ve had nothing but problems with it, from endless suspension issues, problems with the gearbox and general niggles. The engine is a bit loud, the road noise is dreadful unless you find just the right tyres (in my case pirelli P6000’s), the clutch is weak and the stereo is pretty poor. In the car’s defence, it’s issues seem to be more as a result of unsympathetic rental drivers than bad build quality, but the car is in the dealer’s yet again, and my warranty runs out next friday. Would i buy one again .... honestly, i dont think so, and with the warranty about to expire i’m thinking about getting shot of it before anything else goes wrong.

Skoda Fabia 2007

I think it is a really bad car. It has a messed up tank and is too small. The leather ripped after a year and it has been giving me trouble since I bought it, but nobody wants to buy a Fabia. I regret buying it.

Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI Lauren and Klement 2009

First I must say, stay away from Skoda, it’s by far the worse car I have ever driven! I have driven a vast number of different brands from Honda/Toyota to Ford/GMC to Audi/BMW/Mercedes. I am writing this review so that others may not be misguided as a result of making the same mistake I did. After reading so many reviews about Skoda as being very well rated I picked one my self. I wanted to say this, "how in the world did you come up with these ratings?" I was faced with the decision of choosing a company car and I picked a Skoda based on the reviews I found. These reviews are misguiding for people that have limited time or are not familiar with Skoda brand. I’m confused as to why some people are comparing Skoda with VW, BMW or Audi? Let’s clear this up. This car is simply a Skoda and nothing more! Skoda is built in the Czech Republic and quality is limited. 1. The Engine is loud similar to a Tractor and first and second gears are short and powerless. 2. Road noise is very present and makes driving an unpleasant experience (the cabin insulation seems non-existent) 3. Interior/Exterior: car has lots of plastic materials that look plain and cheap. 4. Visibility issues: Critical Dead Spot- the Left side Pillar blocking driver’s view when making left turns. 5.Diesel Engine: noise is very unpleasant and tiring for long drives unlike Audi, BMW or VW whose engines are quiet and smooth. 6.Seats are very uncomfortable I already have back pains, long drives are horrible. 7.Car is unstable and turbulence apparent especially when driving on pot holes, rougher roads or over 120KM/hr on the highway. Apparently the suspension system is not doing a good job in absorbing the road impacts. Final word: Do not waste your time or money with Skoda, it’s not worth it!

Responses to this review

I’m confused - "1. The Engine is loud similar to a Tractor and first and second gears are short and powerless." 5. Diesel Engine: noise is very unpleasant and tiring for long drives unlike Audi, BMW or VW whose engines are quiet and smooth" What you mean like the 2.0 TDi VW/Audi engine that is fitted to this Skoda? - Simon Bucannon from England

Skoda Superb Elegance 170 bhp 2009

This car is magic. It has heated rear seats, park assist, more room in back and front than any car I have had ,,including Mercs. The only complaint I have is that the satnav (expensive if you buy it seperately) only takes 4 digits and is worse using a post code than a £200 Tomtom, but apart from the satnav I am delighted with the car.

Skoda Octavia Estate vrs td 2007

A great family car. It has the performance, space and spec of a car a few grand more expensive. Like Clare I would find the drop in boot floor a bit of a pain so I spent a few more pounds on a flat boot option. That is my only gripe. 2 years of ownership and no problems at all. Great for overtaking with predictable road manners. Super car, but keep it to yourself or they will put the price up.

Skoda Roomster Scout 1.9 TDi 2009

Used the scrappage scheme to change my old faithful Volvo V70 for a Roomster Scout 1.9 TDi. Having test driven the smaller diesel engine. I opted for the 1.9 version for the extra pulling power. I’ve completed 2500 miles so far, the only problem being an occasional rattle from the passenger door. The flexibility of the rear seating means that there is more room in the back for two adult passengers than in the Volvo. Load carrying is also impressive. Build quality is good, and it is actually fun to drive!

Skoda Octavia Petrol VRS 2007

What a fantastic car for the money, I am thoroughly satified with my VRS and wouldn’t swap it for any other performance hatch. I tried all the other cars in the range, from the ST to the VRX and the GTI, for the money, build qaulity, economy, performance and practicality, it can’t be beaten. I travel mainly on country lanes and B roads, and the suspension is a dream, it absorbs everything the roads can throw up. It is economical and I am averaging 37 mpg. I was amazed when I did a trip to cornwall and got 42 mpg, I had to be careful at the pumps, not to fill up with diesel :-) The old image of the rusty, smoky Skoda has long gone, this is a Volkswagon Audi Group car with all the credentials of an Audi or a Volkswagen. Before you buy your next car and are looking for something the size of an Octavia, throw away your badge snobbery and try one, you will not be disappointed; I will buy another VRS when the wife lets me change this one :-)

Skoda Superb 1.8 TSi SE 2009

Call a car a Superb and it has a lot to live up to. But the marketing people at Skoda clearly know their business. This new Skoda is superb by name and superb by nature - so good that you would question why anyone would pay more when, at the highly competitive price, starting at just £15490 for the entry level 1.4 TSi and rising to £26,675 for the 4WD 3.6 litre V6 fit for a King, you can enjoy this quality level of motoring experience. It truly is a superlative car. It was my pleasure to appraise the 1.8 TSi in SE equipment level. Lacking entirely any of the vulgar stylistic appendages that bedevil even the most expensive cars today, the Superb has an understated presence suggesting taste and discernment and sits well alongside Mercedes, Audi’s and the like. In essence we’re looking at a large luxurious car that is terrifically habitable and attractive inside, amply provided with legroom, splendidly appointed in every respect and amply endowed with the performance and sophistication one expects from the very best cars today. The door test is always a good place to start with any new vehicle. Open the driver’s door, look inside, and close the door. Try it with this car and reassurance is immediate and gratifying. The fit is perfect, hinges are smooth - and comforting aromas of quality materials assail the nostrils. Best of all though, are the sound cues provided by the reassuring clicks and clunks: built ’all of a piece’, as they say: it’s beautifully assembled. This Skoda shouts ’quality’ from the very core of its being. It’s also the most luxurious car Skoda has ever built, brimming with aesthetic appeal and having a ’feel-good’ factor to rival cars costing twice or even three times as much. With limousine levels of interior space, only a handful of long wheelbase cars have more rear room than the Superb - and this is, in part, due to the new transverse engine layout. Your correspondent recommends that fat corporations ditch their pretentious so-called ’executive’ BMWs and Jaguars and educate their executives to see the value this car represents. Years ago - before Jaguar and BMW were born - Skoda's were the choice of Kings and have a significantly better pedigree than almost any other marque. Argue to the contrary at your peril and you display a dreadful ignorance that should condemn you to several years' penal servitude in a Trabant. There’s a ’world first’ too with the new Superb. Unsure if your need is for a saloon or a hatchback? Then look no further than this model. Ingenious design enables it to ’morph’ from saloon to hatch and back thanks to the ’Twindoor’ boot facility so that you get two cars in one. The advantages, we are told, is that with the Twindoor fully open you have easy access to the boot. More capacious than many estates, bigger than a bijoux town house and nearly as big as my swimming pool, it is, quite simply, huge. Skoda also tell us that should access to the luggage area be needed on a very cold or very hot day then by opening the ’saloon car boot’ only, your pampered passengers won’t faint from the sudden temperature change: particularly useful in Siberia or the Sahara. You could be forgiven for thinking that at such attractive prices, Superbs would be compromised in some areas. I can tell you categorically that they are not. A host of fitments to soothe you keep you safe and make your driving pleasurable are there in abundance. Top spec. models get everything from Columbus colour touchscreen SatNav. To electrically adjusted and heated front seats, while even the entry level S spec cars have eight speaker sound systems. Just like Bentley, those thinking people at Skoda have even included an umbrella hidden in the water resistant storage space in the left hand rear door. But, of course, it doesn’t just stop there with Skoda (These people are engineers). Your umbrella not only opens at the touch of a button - it collapses at the touch of a button too. If that’s not enough, they’ve even coated it with a special anti-mould solution. That’s class! A choice from six engines (three petrol and three diesels), manual or DSG transmission and even four wheel drive, means that the new Superb has and does what all those other ’executive’ marques have and do: and in many instances it has more and does things better. Testing the turbocharged 160 bhp 1.8 TSi SE six speed manual version, which costs just £18930 was a sheer delight. The engine is smooth, torquey and so refined that you would swear you were driving a six cylinder car. Of course, it’s no use having smooth power if the car doesn’t have the quiet and comfortable ride to go with it. Settle to motorway speeds, set the climate control to ’cool’ (which you most certainly are when driving one of these). And you could travel the length and breadth of the land and arrive completely relaxed and unruffled: very little tyre or wind noise at speed means you swoosh sweetly along first class. I’ve travelled in much noisier Mercedes than this. ’But it’s a large car that is guaranteed to pitch and roll once off the straight and narrow’ I hear you say. Nonsense! I can tell you that with the new engine layout and suspension change it’s a paragon of good manners: nimble and balletic enough for your chauffeur to escape down country lanes when a kidnap attempt is made on you. (Buyers must be aware that riding in one of these will make them a target of considerable envy). Suspension has been tuned to give an almost perfect balance between agility and ride comfort. Should you encounter a Russian tank around the corner, rest assured that if a collision occurs, the array of passive and active safety features will mean the tank will come off worst because this Skoda has achieved a five star EuroNCAP rating for passenger protection - and the tank hasn’t. The complex network of safety programmes stops short of ejector seats. An urgent motorway trip of eighty miles followed by sixty miles of twists, turns and ups and downs and then into the inner city, convinced me that this is the best value for money car in its class - or indeed in the class above and the class above that. On the motorway I set the cruise control and relaxed: on the A and B roads I revelled in the liveliness and good handling and in the infernal nightmare that is the traffic jam, I tuned into Classic FM and listened to the Prague Philharmonic. Skoda has, with the new Superb, given us a thoroughly modern car that is clean lined and simply drawn which satisfies through a mix of design, function and user friendliness - without appearing flashy. At less than £19,000 it’s outstanding value.

Skoda Fabia Estate GreenLine 2008

I have had the Fabia GreenLine estate now for over a year and I am very pleased with the car. There is plenty of room for the grandchildren and anything I have to carry when the seats are folded down. I have one or two grumbles, The first is the gear ratios, the on;y time I can get into 5th gear is on good straight roads or the motorways. Third gear is used most times around town and I have got used to this now. The other thing is the Soot Particle Filter. This comes on if I have been doing a lot of slow town driving. A drive of about twenty minutes at 40 mph usually cures it, I say usually but I had problems during the winter when the roads were slippy and slow speeds were the only option and the light stayed on and even after a long run it wouldn’t go off, so I had to go to the dealer to get it fixed. The one big advantage of this car is the fuel economy. I have got 80mpg, yes 80, not all the time but even with third gear driving I can get 65mpg around town. I went to Belfast last week, a journey of about 70 miles, and the car averaged 70mpg, not bad for an estate. So a nice little car that won’t break the bank.

Skoda Fabia Estate Greenline 2009

Not the most stylish car but it’s narrow width makes car parks easier to use with less risk of damage. Larger wheels (not an option) would improve its appearance. Very practical with the rear seat squab being removable in seconds should you require even more room. After 6000 miles the car is averaging 78.6 mpg. Sensible and very useful side pockets in the "boot". To date there have been no problems with the car.

Skoda Fabia 3 2009

We have had four Skoda Fabia’s over the years - two diesels, and two petrols. Both petrols suffered from premature piston ring wear resulting in costly repair bills. Best avoided at all costs, unless you want to pay over the odds to have them fixed. Diesels have always been reliable, good fuel economy, well screwed together. We like them a lot, just a shame about the petrols.

Skoda Fabia VRS 2004

The Fabia VRS 2004. Excellent Performance especially on long drives, proving not only to have exceptional torque when needed but providing unmatched economy as well.

Skoda Octavia 2008

A good value family saloon car. Runs smoothly on motorways & around town. Huge boot for all the families junk & shopping. Only disadvantages are... No rear wiper (I know it’s slanted so rain runs down, but you still need a wiper when it mists up in the cold!). Visibility not great.

Skoda Roomster 1.9TDI 2008

After 3 Skodas and a couple of Renaults, Roomster 3 1.9 TDI became our new family car last autumn, after a lengthy consideration. It won over its competition (C-Max, Kangoo, Octavia and new Fabia) by design, functionality and uniqueness. Well, least off all by price, but I negotiated a good deal. After remapping the engine that now boasts 140 HP, the car is about everything I had hoped for. And no, I have never bumped against the front door rim let alone hatch...

Skoda Superb 1.9 TDi 130bhp (upped slightly to 170) 2003

I see the people who rated this car low don’t even own one ... yet in contrast those who drive them everyday rate them very highly. My Superb is well ..... err Superb. Gives me good mpg in comfort and isn’t exactly a slouch. OK so I admit it doesn’t set any land speed records BUT 0-60 is around 7.2 seconds. Mid-range pulling power is in excess of most cars well above this price range. In 3rd gear 30mph-70mph takes around 3.5 seconds. That’s impressive and moreover it’s acceleration right at the speed most people want it. The ride is set-up for comfort when original. I personally opted to lower and stiffen the suspension slightly and it handles well for a large saloon. It’s no rally car but then again it never claims to be. Comfort is well catered for too. Enough room in the boot for 3 corpses and a cabin so spacious it almost has an echo. Good levels of equipment and attention to detail is nice. Luggage hooks in the boot (curry hooks to you and me), umbrellas in the door, courtesy puddle lights in wing mirrors, the red night vision light in the cabin etc etc etc.. Solid construction too. Economy is a boring subject but to be fair one that affects us all. Motorways give me around 55mpg in real world driving, whilst town journeys anywhere from 37-47mpg dependant on how heavy you are with the right foot that day. Fact is, the Superb is a great all-rounder. Fantastic balance of power, comfort and economy. I have to admit it fails to achieve top marks in any of those categories but it scores well in ALL of them. Not many cars do that, regardless of price range. As for looks, personally I quite like them. Lowered, a set of alloys and it looks incredibly like an Audi ... and that’s no bad thing. I have to admit, the bad reviews do seem to have an odour of badge-snobbery about them ... dare say even badge-envy?

Skoda Octavia Lauren and Klement 2007

This is the second Skoda I have leased and will have another one. Great build quality and is one of the most comfortable cars I’ve had. Road handling is excellent and performance from the 2.0 litre Turbo diesel engine takes some beating. Having had the opportunity to lease the Skoda Octavia I have no hesitation in buying one privately. The Lauren and Klement variant is packed with everything you could wish for. Don’t let the historical stories put you off. One of the best cars on the road!

Skoda Fabia 1.2 2007

Having looked at, and test driven other cars, I was completely surprised by the Fabia. It is well built, plenty of room inside, the inside layout is what you would expect to find in a more up market car and is a dream to drive. My wife loves it and so do I. I find the 1.2 engine is eager, quiet on long runs, economical and does the job very well. If I change my car in the future, IT WILL BE FOR ANOTHER SKODA FABIA!

Skoda Fabia Fabia 3 1.9 TDI PD 2008

I have spent the whole day test driving cars, starting with the VW Golf which I had all but decided to go ahead with. I was then talked in to trying the Fabia. I reluctantly agreed. My ’brand snobbery’ combined with the fact that it was a slightly smaller car was telling me I wouldn’t like it. I have TOTALLY changed my opinion. The first thing I noticed was that the styling of the car is gorgeous, it has totally lost the boring ’sensible’ shape and has big, seductive feline headlights, and a sculptured bonnet and bumpers. When I got in the car it felt bigger inside than my current 306 and just as big at the Golf - I am 6ft 2in and there was plenty of room in the back for the sales guy. I took it through the town and on a dual carriage way and I am impressed with the handling, the acceleration and the braking. With this car you also get features as standard that you have to pay extra for on virtually all other makes. These include cruise control, climate control, rear parking sensors and alloy wheels, to name but a few. The interior feels just as good quality as the VW, the stereo is exactly the same, and the only difference is that you get more gadgets to play with for your money. All other cars I looked at for the same money were basic models and at least 6 months older, with much more that 5000 miles on the clock (I was looking to buy a used car). If like me you are looking at the Fabia but have the ’brand snobbery’ looming in the back of your mind, lose it. Be proud that you are making the intelligent choice in buying a nice looking car, that is great to drive, with excellent reliability, and all the features you thought you couldn’t have for your budget.

Skoda Fabia Estate 1.9 Tdi 2008

Very economical car, motorway/urban is 18.5 litres/km, plenty of power although the gearbox isn’t smooth or refined at all. One really feels and hears the diesel, Skoda should have improved sound dampening in the cabin. Steering is precise and cornering good but the suspension is incredibly hard on the slightest bump, quite jarring and the car tires you out because of this, it’s not really relaxed driving at all. Seat and driver position is excellent though with good support although some switches could be better placed, e.g. electric window buttons are too far back as I’m only 5’7" and would have to be over 6’ for my hand to sit comfortably on them. At night, interior illumination is very poor, leaving ventilation ports and ashtray area totally in the dark, they just cut costs. Very practical and spacious car even at back for 5 adults in all. A very boring car to drive with zero grace or refinement, it just gets you there.

Skoda Roomster 2007

I had mine for all of 8 months, and having had Skoda’s ever since 1994 to present day, it was the most god awful car I have had. The sharp corners on the exaggerated front and hatch doors are lethal - a couple of head injuries and two body blows! Economy (Level 1 Roomster - petrol) was abysmal, about 38 mpg combined. Too under geared, it is the same engine as my previous (and now current) Fabia, but geared down to the van version Praktik. I would keep well clear of this car

Responses to this review

What a load of rubbish this man has written. You must be very heavy footed to get such low mpg. Ignore this and give the Roomster a test with an open mind. You will probably be agreeably suprised - Bryan Varnam from Lincolnshire

Skoda Octavia Estate Elegance 2008

Easily the best "family-sized" estate on the road in the UK. So comfortable, everything is in just the right position (I’m 6’2") and so well-built. No rattles, no "zizzes", everything works like a well-oiled lock, and it’s so economical (50+mpg cruising the autobahn at 90mph+) . It is fast, smooth (except at VERY low revs - keep it above 1400rpm) and it cruises at whatever speed (on the continent, officer...!), thanks to it’s very high-geared 6-speed gearbox. And megabucks cheaper than the Passat estate which is probably it’s nearest rival for space and finish. Demolishes the old Skoda image with a vengeance. Well done the Czechs...

Skoda Octavia Elegance 2.0 TDi DSG Diesel 2006

Skoda Octavia Elegance 2.0 TDi DSG - a quick search of Google in relation to Laurin and Klement, told me that two gentlemen founded a car company called Skoda at the turn of the century. Strangely enough, they also produced bicycles and motorcycles but I’m going to concentrate on the car side of things. The name Laurin and Klement has become synonymous with the top of the range of Skoda motor cars and after many models having been produced over the last 100 years or so, it’s now part of the Volkswagen Audi company and is marketed as a brand in its own right, alongside Seat, a car company with Spanish origins. The range of cars offered by Skoda is quite neat. The car I’m reviewing is the Octavia. The model recently won Auto Express’s owner satisfaction survey for the second time and I must admit, this is my second one too. The car fits into the range between the Fabia and Superb and has the traditional five door hatch layout, and an estate can be specified that uses the same floorplan as the hatchback model. It was updated in 2004 with a refreshed front end and "C" shaped rear light clusters together with an updated interior, although there are rumours within the industry that the original model will be re-introduced as a budget buy from 2010. The Octavia now looks decidedly similar to the next car up the four car Skoda range, the more expensive Superb, with its prominent nose, slightly larger length and cosseting ride. The car’s imposing new front and long bonnet give it some executive flair whilst retaining its value for money approach. The doors close with a nice "thunk, a sure sign of quality. The car I’ve got is the 2.0 TDI pump deuse diesel and has covered 36,000 miles in two years of ownership, mainly because I use the car everyday as part of my job. Trim levels range from the rather basic but cheap Classic, to Ambiente, Elegance, Lauren and Klement and sporty Vrs. The engine range from the positively weedy and not recommended 1.4, to the frugal 1.9 TDi and 2.0 TDi. If you’re in the market for a swift model, there is the flying 2.0 petrol that is fitted into the sports variant, the VRs. To give you an idea of size, the car is 1462mm high, 1769mm wide and 4572mm in length. The car is fitted with some factory options such as Sport alloys, sports suspension, xenon headlamps, and exterior courtesy lamps and a boot lip rear spoiler as well as metallic graphite grey paintwork. I chose the car because the layout of the car with its wide opening doors makes entry and exit easy. This model in Elegance trim has height adjustable seats. The passenger seat is also height adjustable and there is a list of standard features that would fill the rest of this article. Here’s a few to be going on with; 6 CD multichanger and multi function radio Climatronic Air Conditioning (works like central heating) Reversing sensors Xenon headlamps Front foglamps Rear spoiler Rain sensitive wipers Electric door mirrors that are also heated Electric windows Driver, passenger, curtain, seat and side airbags 17" alloy wheels Traction Control Stability Control Tyre pressure monitors Alarm and Immobiliser So, I’m sure you’d agree it’s well equipped. All the controls have a positive action and are of the same quality and materials that you would find any of the other Volkswagen Audi group cars. The switchgear has a positive action, the plastics are nicely rubberised and chrome bezels on some of the switchgear mean that it’s a pleasant place to be. From day to day I can cover large mileages and get out as relaxed as when I got in. The view from the driving position is good and the Elegance has parking sensors as standard equipment on the rear so parking is easy too. You may even find that you’ll challenge yourself to get the car in a small a space as possible once accustomed to the sensitivity of them. In terms of economy, the car regularly returns in excess of 40mpg around town and on a long run with the cruise control in operation; a figure of 60mpg is achievable according to the cars on board computer. Passenger space is relatively generous and five people can be carried in comfort and as its front wheel drive, there’s no awkward transmission tunnel hump for the middle occupant to negotiate in the rear. The boot has a relatively low sill and it’s possible for the entire London Symphony Orchestra with their instruments to hide away in there when its shut and nobody would know. Beneath the floor a full size wheel is provided instead of the usual can of filler. The boot also has a cargo net which, unfortunately, has given up the ghost and collapsed, probably as a result of my wheelchair storage. On the road, the car is relatively quiet although I have driven some quieter diesels. The engine is rather heavy but this doesn’t impact upon the steering too much and it’s possible to hustle the car along a favourite twisty road with ease. Whilst it’s not the lightest steering set up that I’ve used, I think that there’s plenty of feedback from it and the six speed direct shift gearbox can either be used as a manual or it can be left in Drive and used as a conventional automatic. The gears have a seamless shift between them and so far, I’ve never needed to use it as a manual as it’s so efficient. It’s perhaps the best gearbox I’ve used yet. The car’s engine is willing and eager, flinging the car forward through the gears with ease. The car is capable of the 0-60 dash in 9.6 seconds and can travel on to a rather academic 130mph, however I value my licence. For those interested in performance figures, the car pulls strongly from 1,750 rpm and has a maximum power output of 140bhp at 4,000 rpm. It drives well and is relatively cheap to run. The car is well constructed and has a sturdy, solid quality feel about it, not to mention the equipment list which goes on and on. I’ve heard of the Octavia covering 100,000 miles in two years easily courtesy of our local taxi service and that can’t be bad. Try one, you might be surprised.

Skoda Fabia 2004

I love my Fabia. Have had her for four years now. Absolutely no trouble. Getting another soon.

Skoda Superb Elegance TDI 140 2006

Had one for nearly two years, love it to bits! Does 47 - 50 mpg on a decent run. Can cruise at whatever speed suits you - or are brave enough to attempt. Don’t worry about the ’misinformed’ Skoda Haters they are actually doing ’us Skoda owners’ a big favour. They actually assist in keeping the price down! If the Skoda brand had the same cachet as VW, or worse, Audi, we can all guess that the Skoda prices would rocket upwards - so thank you Skoda Haters long may you prevail. I’m just on the point of trading my Elegance TDI140 in for the new equivalent only this time I’m going for the TDI 170 engine for a bit more grunt - does the same mpg but CO2 emissions are lower so my RFL goes down about £25. Made the mistake of taking a test drive in this version - fabulous is a term that comes to mind, feature count for £22.8k is unbelievable, it would likely cost another £5k plus for same spec. in an Audi. I should be in one by end of October 08 if all goes to plan. Don’t hesitate; these are fantastic cars at a real value-for-money price but you can buy this car on merit alone. If you will excuse the pun - it is Superb!

Skoda Octavia Estate 2008

Got to be the just about the worst diesel car I have driven. So uncomfortable and the drive is horrible; feels like it has not been tuned correctly. The boot is just terrible; being lower than normal estates which means you can’t put large items in without doing your back in. Electric window switch is too far away a really short person wouldn’t even be able to reach it. Accelerator pedal is to close to the interior so you keep putting your foot on the foot well side panel instead if not careful. Only good part are the brakes. Used to driving bigger heavier cars for very long distances for work so driving this was a big let down and left me with a bad back. If I was given one as a gift I would give it back.

Responses to this review

You obviously don’t know what you are talking about, get yourself a Ford KA where you’ll feel more at home - Brian Briggs from Northumberland

Dear oh Dear! What an awful review. You clearly have absolutely no idea what you are talking about as these are quality vehicles. Also you must be tiny....I mean TINY - John Hunter from Essex

Are you absolutely sure you’ve got a Skoda Octavia, Clare? - Kevin Wright from Essex

Skoda Fabia VRS 2004

This is probably the best car I have ever owned. I have it from new and the only thing that has gone wrong is a passenger wheel bearing and the rear wash motor. The car now has over 90000 miles. The performance from the 130bhp engine is excellent and brings a smile to your face when you floor it. Overtaking is an absolute breeze and the best part it averages 50mpg around the doors. Take it easy on a run and I have managed over 70mpg believe it or not. This is the last week I will be using the car as I am in the process of changing it for a pro_ceed sport. I only hope my next car is as good as my little Skoda.

Skoda Fabia 1.9 sdi 2001

6 years I had this car and it only required 1 set of brake pads and 1 side light bulb plus 1 set of tyres. It returned 66 miles to the gallon running at an average of 65 miles per hour. Excellent performance Ps I now have a new 1.9 tdi 100up - until now no problems.

Skoda Roomster Scout with extra bits 2008

Well I got the Scout 1.9 TDi having opted out from company car schemes . As with all things one gets what one pays for . This vehicle is ideal for ’repping’ and ideal for family use . I suspect if one buys the 1.4 and more basic petrol models one could be as disappointed as the guy above. I have no problems with my Roomster and am very proud of it , especially when the usual Audi or BMW driver gets a bit of a shock when I put my foot down! Remember though - this car isn’t designed for the race track and doesn’t corner well at high speeds... then again it is a good idea to slow down you know! It does 53 MPG on a good run and about 45 in town - I can’t knock that . I would hope that Skoda adopt a six speed forward gear box in future builds and that they also develop a sporty variant. I love mine even if the Government fuel allowance is low - great little car and worth it ... if you buy the Scout 1.9 diesel TDi . Hope that’s ok... oh and to combat the weird front window styling, I bought a red car, and then had some stick on panels made to ’even up’ the sight lines - worked a treat. This car is better looking than the Citroen, Renault and Peugeot models and is much, much cheaper than buying a VW (which of course is where the engine and gear box come from). Highly recommended as far as I am concerned, both for business and family driving. Regards, John.

Skoda Fabia 1.4 TDI PD 80 Estate 2008

Just simply an amazing car...well designed & built with plenty of space everywhere. The 1.4 TDI engine is superb with loads of power, and although not the quietest of units is not obtrusive in anyway and not really noisier than any other modern diesel. It offers a pleasantly reassuring high pressure diesel sound at tick over and I’m getting over 70mpg on a run easily. This car handles bumps and corners really well, and is comfortable over big distances. Comfortable cruising speed is between 75-80mph on motorways and it’ll hold this speed all day up or down hill. I’m happy!

Skoda Superb 2.5d 2002

Simply superb. Best car I’ve ever had or driven. (includes Mercs, Audi, BMW, Saab, VW, etc). Quiet, economical, powerful, huge rear legroom (more than my friends S class Merc). Ultra reliable - far more reliable than my friend’s S Class. Great dealers too - Skoda always does well on the the old JD Power doesn’t it? Admittedly not the prettiest car ever, but the space, power, reliability, great equipment level, etc. more than compensate. (Umbrella in air-conditioned pocket, climate control, ESP, cruise control, CD stack, hooks in the boot to hold shopping bags, extra power points, etc.) Best thing is without doubt the engine - sold my car to a friend who delights is pushing those bloody BMW’s out of the way. He’s taken it up to 125k with no problems, and it still pulls like a train. Got to get another one. Think Skoda’s are a joke? Get a Superb - you’ll be the one who’s laughing.

Skoda Fabia Elegance Estate 2006

My third Skoda, only one fault in 2 years, wire broke from starter motor - RAC and Skoda assist fixed at road side, they took the car to the dealer and myself home. Skoda supplied a Vectra for the weekend (not a good car). Cruises happily at 75mph on the motorway, albeit with speedometer saying 80 mph, just under 4,000rpm. MPG range from 38/42 around town to 45 on journeys, the only down side is that the engine needs 98 octane petrol, happy with 97 though. Very free revving unit with peak torque at 4,000rpm and power at 6,000 rpm, very easy to hit limiter at 6,500 rpm. Good dealer, with previous Skoda, at a service, changed silencer 4 weeks before warranty out as could have gone before the next 10,000 service!

Skoda Fabia 2008

First of all, I think your original reviewer (Shamus) must be on drugs and that he should indeed have his head stuck in a cement mixer etc. The Fabia is without doubt the best supermini money can buy. It is reliable, cheap to run and very well built. I am on my 3rd Fabia since 2001 and have not had a single fault to contend with in that time.

Skoda Superb 2008

Sad tot see Skoda haters out there refusing to see and acknowledge that the Superb is a great car. But again I am talking about the old series. I’ve driven first hand the new Superb (2008) in the Czech Republic and believe me people... ITS THE LAST NAIL IN THE COFFIN OF ANTI-SKODA DRIVERS. The new Skoda Superb (new generation) is a car where you simply try hard enough to criticise and see a fault but you find none... expect a revolution in the luxury middle range car section...... the new Superb: - New great look - sooooooo quiet - strong and great automatic smart gear - so STEADY and hearing whispers when driving 210km/h -so much space try and get your hands on one for a test drive.... amazing!!!!!!!!!!!

Skoda Octavia 2.0 litre TDI diesel 2007

The Octavia is not the best looking car in the world but the appeal for me was that it used Volkswagen technology found in the Golf but gives more space and practicality. The cabin quality is excellent and the ride is comfortable and refined. I plumped for the diesel for the better fuel economy. The seats are the most comfortable that I have ever sat in. Aircon was included as standard. I have now completed over 5,000 miles and had no problems. Skoda have really turned their image around and I will not hesitate to buy from them again.

Skoda Octavia Estate 1.9 TDI 2008

Solidly constructed, very spacious and heaps of great equipment. A decent drive the performs well in all areas, every bit as good as the Vauxhall Astra and the Ford Focus.

Skoda Superb 1.9 TDI Classic 2006

I really wanted the Volkswagen Passat but found that it was slightly out of my price range. That’s when a friend informed me that nowadays Skoda’s are Volkswagen in everything but the badge and that the Superb is essentially identical to the Passat. I phoned the local Skoda dealer and arranged for a test drive in the 1.9 TDI Classic and was immediately amazed to see how closely the Superb resembled the Passat. Knowing that VW were behind the engine gave me a great deal of comfort, reliability is more important than looks in my opinion. The interior and boot are cavernous and I feel more like a chauffeur than a father when taking my wife and the children out - they love the space and comfort. This is not a city car, it performs at its best when on the motorway where it is also very economical. I don’t like to use the world budget because this normally means sacrificing quality - many years ago Tesco’s own coffee was exactly than same as Maxwell House inside the jar but with different branding and at half the price - although the Superb is not half the price of the Passat, the principal is the same.

Skoda Octavia Estate 2006

Had this car 2 years from new. 2.0 TDI 140bh. Brilliant car. Good acceleration for overtaking. Comfortable on long journeys. Very large carrying capacity. I grin at Passat and VW drivers who pay much more for what I am driving but mine is under a different skin .

Skoda Octavia vRS 2.0FSi 2006

Just bought one of these cars and after one decent drive on our B roads it is easy to see why it fairs so well on motoring surveys. Excellent build quality, good torquey engine and slick 6 speed box. Excellent sound system and the boot storage is massive and so many nice small touches. It puts my new age Impreza to shame in so many departments!! Insurance Group 15 and over 30mpg makes it a great performance saloon. I’m proud to be driving a Skoda!

Skoda Fabia 2007

Recently I sold my old car, a Honda Day. You would have thought that was a good idea, so did I until I test drove the Fabia. Even in comparison with the feeble Honda Day, I felt like a three year old driving a push car. The interior was almost entirely made out of a tacky plastic, the type you would find in a 90’s Korean made car (and a push car). To be honest, the type of person who drives this car is ether a recently escaped convict, or James Cornford. I hope I am neither of the two, and based on that reason, i would have my head stuck in a cement mixer while somebody serves me haggis on a red hot poker via my anus. A bad, no, TERRIBLE CAR. Full stop.

Responses to this review

This is not a review but simply a tiresome rant which says a lot more about you than it does about the car. Other people have had different experiences. If you did not like the car then why did you buy it in the first place? Food for thought - FM Hope from East Lothian (Haddingtonshire)

Oh dear, sounds like he’s not a happy chappy. I’ve just sold a year old Yaris to go back to Skodas, now my 5th and its like driving a roller compared to the Yaris - Ray Drury from Yorkshire

Skoda Superb 2008

In the village of where I live there is a Skoda garage. I was looking for a luxury saloon that was affordable. So at the dealership I saw the Superb tagged at £16,995. I thought there must be some luxury for that price, so I took a test drive. The interior is plasticy and tatty, the automatic gearbox guesses when to change gear, and it is slow! O-6O in about 12 secs and 6O is about its top speed. And guess what, for the same money you can get a year old BMW 3 Series. Superb-No. BMW-Yes.

Skoda Superb 1.8T Comfort 2007

I can’t believe this is a Skoda! It looks and feels like a top of the range luxury saloon and gives a very smooth drive, with a healthy dollop of power when needed. Do NOT be put off by the badge and miss out on a very classy car for not a lot of money!

Skoda Superb 2008

Recently I went past a Skoda dealership and I saw this car on the forecourt. I thought "God thats a bad looking Vehicle." So obviously i had to road test it to see if it was any good and i have to say, this Skoda is definitely not Superb. Worst of all is its performance. There is none!!! This car is just a waste of parts, they belong at the scrapyard. Take away the "s" and the "yard" and you got the overall rating of this car. GOing back to the performance i was out dragged from the lights by a gee whizz and the vehicles which the oaps use. ALSO i had trouble getting up a 3% gradient i was unimpressed. and i was over taken on the motorway by a cyclist who was wearing lycra in his 60’s.

Responses to this review
I prostrate myself at the feet of the worlds finest living comedian...oh, wait..pay 25K for a Beemer by any chance? - Max from England

Maybe when you grow up and get a driving license you will be able to make a more informed judgement! David Simpson from Cambridgeshire

Skoda Roomster 2005

i have recently brought a Skoda Roomster and i was disappointed with the engines weak power output and i saw it on the web and it looked good now i have it on my drive i’m ashamed and people laugh at me as i drive past. Please take my advice and don’t buy this car!!

Responses to this review
We have the 1.4 TDI version Roomster 2 and up to date I can not fault it. There are always some fatheads who do not like something thats a bit different - Bryan Varnam from Lincolnshire

What a wimp. The idiots who laugh obviously do not understand cars one bit are Jeremy Clarkson clones. Ignore them. The Roomster is a decent car at decent price and its styling at least shows some thought rather than being like every other boring car - Bryan Varnam from Lincolnshire

Skoda Fabia 1.9 TDI vRS 2007

Fabulous car! Truly a SUPER-mini. Bags of space, surprisingly fun to drive and good price.

Skoda Superb 1.8T Comfort 2007

10 years ago I would have never have dreamt of buing and owning a Skoda. It shows just how far Skoda has come that I not only included Skoda in my list of possible new cars but went further and actually bought one! I wanted a family saloon car that would give us plenty of space but didn’t want an MPV. I also did not want to spend a ridiculous amount of money on a car so a Mercedes was out of the question. The Superb gives me both the space that I want plus the power and performance necessary. All this at a VERY reasonable price, this Skoda really is SUPERB!

Skoda Roomster 1.9 TDi 5dr

Skoda have indeed come a long way. The Roomster is a very affordable MPV, not only to buy but to run. I test drove both this model and the 1.6 petrol version but felt the diesel offers a lot more performance wise for only a fraction more money. Bags of space very enjoyable to drive and really well built. More fool you if you overlook this because of the badge name.

Skoda Octavia 1.6 FSi

This car is fabulous. Superb build quality, comfortable, great handling & plenty of room inside. Would certainly have another in a couple of years.

Skoda Fabia

This is an absolutely fantastic car. Similar in design to the Volkswagen Polo, this is a spacious, with plenty of interior room, and available at an excellent price ( around the £8000 mark ). I chose this over the Vauxhall Corsa and am delighted with my choice. 5 stars.

Skoda Fabia 2 1.4 TDI

Fuel economy is disappointing ( less than 40mpg ) though handling and comfort are good. The new car price is very reasonable but I suppose this is really a no-frills choice that is reliable but unadventurous.

Skoda Fabia Fabia 3 1.6 16v

I test drove the 1.2 model in May, and liked the way the car handled on the road, but found it to be woefully under powered. So I ordered the 1.6 which I got 2 months ago. Driving it I have found that it is very quick and torquey, but I do think that it is a bit low geared, 70mph in fifth gear and the engine is at nearly 4000 revs. I do find that that at speed it is sometimes a little difficult to control due to its fairly high seating position and soft suspension, and this also leads to noticeable body roll in corners, but you get used it. On long motorway journeys it is very comfortable and very quite for a small hatchback. When you first drive one you feel as if the brakes are not doing much, due to the way it nose dives, again soft suspension, but I was very shocked the first time I hit them at speed at how quickly it stopped, although in the wet I sometimes feel that the abs kicks in a little to soon. On the whole I find this to be a great not-so-little, little car, comfortable, quite economical (I average 32mpg but I put my foot down a lot), well equipped, reasonably quick car. I do think however that its price is a little excessive.

Skoda Octavia Estate 2.0 TDI PD vRS 5dr

I can’t fault this car. Skoda have indeed come a long way. Comfortable, spacious, excellent handelling and looks pretty good too. Excellent value for money. Really pleased with my choice.