.png){kind=logo}
Freshly updated with its mid-cycle refresh, the newest iteration of the Skoda Octavia Combi remains true to its core principles. This family-oriented car serves as both a companion and a partner, inspiring us to embark on a journey and take it for a spin.
Doesn’t that’s precisely what a car should accomplish: encouraging you to explore uncharted territories yet providing comfort for daily routines? From this perspective, the tale of the Octavia represents an enduring love affair between Škoda and the European market, particularly evident in its Combi version. Despite the 2024 facelift marking the fourth-generation model, none of its commendable features have been lost; instead, it boasts a refreshed LED front end and a technologically enhanced cabin equipped with seamless integration for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with marginally bigger displays. However, these advancements haven't rendered physical controls obsolete—there remain dedicated buttons and quick access options available. Simple and intelligent—the essence of ‘Simply Clever,’ which remains central to the brand’s ethos. Additional testament lies within those quintessential elements like the umbrella holder built into the door panel, the ice scraper located behind the fuel cap, the retractable cargo net activated at the touch of a button, hidden compartments beneath the trunk lining, and adjustable dividers for organizing luggage—all hallmarks retained from previous models.
On all fours
Nonetheless, the updated design includes changes to the gasoline lineup. Beneath the hood lies a four-cylinder engine. During this evaluation, we focused on the 1.5-liter variant producing 150 horsepower, featuring 48V mild hybrid tech coupled with a seven-speed DSG automated transmission. It’s worth noting that Škoda continues to provide manual transmissions as an option for both their gas models—offering 116 hp and 150 hp—and diesel variants at 115 hp. Returning to our journey along the bumpy roads, we tested the vehicle equipped with the 150hp motor and fully loaded features. The gearshift lever functions via a straightforward toggle mechanism. However, due to its inconspicuous nature, I mistakenly engaged neutral (N) rather than reverse (R) or drive (D) several times during parking maneuvers about two or three occasions. This can be attributed more likely to my unfamiliarity with the car rather than a significant flaw.
Soft as cotton wool
Škoda does not typically hurry along unless it’s an RS model designed for performance. Thus, this particular Octavia 1.5 TSI mild-hybrid remains quite composed. Its strength lies in providing finely tuned drive settings. When set to Sport, it becomes dynamic and eager; in Normal mode, it strikes a perfect equilibrium between responsiveness and ease-of-use; whereas in Comfort mode, it behaves much like a gentle cloud, smoothing over bumps and imperfections—such as those found on a dusty gravel path we encountered. Additionally, there is a customizable setting allowing you to tailor the suspension, steering response, and throttle sensitivity according to your preferences. The estate version excels in terms of interior space too. Backseat occupants have ample legroom without feeling cramped. At the driver's seat, ergonomically shaped chairs equipped with massaging features ensure maximum comfort during long drives.
Generous
The most impressive feature of the Octavia Combi continues to be its trunk capacity. Whether you're carrying luggage, bicycles, party supplies, tools, or even trash, all fit within its generous 640 liters, which can extend up to 1700 liters once the back seats are lowered flat. Such ample space encourages adventurous trips. With a powerful engine delivering 150 horsepower, performance stays robust over time. Yet, expect fuel efficiency to hover around 6 liters per 100 kilometers under normal driving conditions, avoiding excessive forceful acceleration or heavy loads.
In mountainous terrain, the paddles offer an extra touch of excitement when used with a manually operated DSG gearbox. Though slightly understeer-prone and somewhat unstable at times, the Octavia still performs robustly and enthusiastically. Furthermore, it does not constantly remind you of small mistakes thanks to its unobtrusive yet attentive driver assistance technologies. Consequently, it makes an ideal companion for peaceful drives through winding roads and across rolling hills.
Winning Formula
Just as you grasped, I never wore a genuine disapproving scowl when driving it. Neither did I sport an exuberantly joyful chuckle. The Czech counterpart of the Golf is commendable regarding space, straightforwardness, and effectiveness. Yet, the Octavia lacks playfulness and innovation. Its demeanor is somewhat somber but offset by an interior trim finished in cognac, which has striking appeal. Behind the front passenger seat lies a tablet holder designed to keep the children (or perhaps your mother-in-law) happily engaged with their digital devices while they sit comfortably on the bench seat, immersed in another realm as the landscape flows past like a serene bubble outside. To enhance enjoyment further, shades can envelop the back section of the cabin in shadow—provided you operate the blackout function for the panoramic sunroof. For those passengers riding inside this Škoda, yet another option opens up vistas toward what could be considered Octavian aspirations.
Pricey
"When the invoice arrives, someone might suggest you’re stretching your limits a little too far, Jana," says one observer. Those budget-friendly Škoda days are behind us now. Building upon its past successes and maintaining high standards, the new Octavia commands a higher price point. Indeed, considering aspects like practicality, effectiveness, straightforwardness, and user-friendliness, these costs seem justified. This particular model, equipped with a 1.5-liter mild-hybrid engine producing 150 horsepower, has an initial asking price of €44,000 in Belgium. However, add-ons such as luxurious interiors and exteriors, along with features including 18-inch wheels, a towing kit, and numerous optional extras make the total cost rise to €58,740 before factoring in road taxes. Opting for the base-model gasoline version delivering 116 horsepower with a standard transmission brings down the starting price to around €33,500. Alternatively, diesel variants begin at approximately €42,000 but offer a more modest experience without all the premium touches.
In France, Škoda provides an Octavia Combi with approximately 150 horsepower, quite close to our tested model, priced at around €55,000. In contrast, buyers in Switzerland would have to pay almost 60,000 Swiss francs. However, those who possess the financial capability might find these costs justifiable for such indulgence. They could then overlook its extravagances and savor, albeit temporarily, the romantic essence of gasoline-powered travel.
(MH with Olivier Duquesne – Source: Škoda – Images: © Olivier Duquesne)
