Faults:

Rear window wiper failed in January 2006.

Rear window wiper failed in January 2008.

Rear window wiper failed in December 2008.

A/M radio reception failed in August 2008.

Wiring corroded within floor due to leaks in body work.

General Comments:

This is now in the garage and is a costly repair. Skoda Autos have not been very helpful.

Faults:

Catalytic converter gone, and replaced at 12,000 miles.

Clutch became increasingly heavy, to the extent that I had to go to the doctor for a strain on the tendons behind my knee, I thought it was a skiing strain. After three visits, the doctor sussed it and I had to put a small cushion under my leg, as the front seat is very limited in terms of adapting shape. I am 35 and fit as a fiddle, so it's not me!

The engine fault lights comes on every month, then down to the garage who fix it; something to do with carbon build up. One month later back again.

The engine cuts out frequently when idling.

I have had it looked and serviced by a non dealer mechanic, who also couldn't figure out the problem.

General Comments:

My first car was a Skoda Felicia; it was superb and reliable. I wanted to get a Octavia for about 18 months, and when I passed the Irish driving test, I went down to the dealer and traded in my Opel Corsa, which was a fine little nipper for town, but I wanted a bigger car.

My car has been a disaster, and I am most likely getting rid of it this week in a good trade in.

In general though, the car is fairly cumbersome, the boot size is at the expenses of passenger room, the handling at speed feels precarious (at 80mph you think you were on ice), and the so called power steering is really heavy.

That said, I do feel that I got the equivalent of a bad pint, as a good friend has the same model and year, and it is like driving a different make of car.

Faults:

Nothing so far - just got it.

General Comments:

I’ve just traded in my Nissan Almera GTi for a one owner 2 year old Octavia vRS, and boy, am I happy!

This car has exceeded my expectations in just about every area.

Great refinement – the engine is quiet, build quality is very good and the ride is firm, but not harsh.

I’d have preferred less of the light grey carpet, but the cabin is a very nice place to be in for my daily commute.

Looks like I’m going to get an average 35mpg on the motorway.

Performance is very good, more than adequate for all, but real racers. There’s a little bit of turbo lag below 2,500 rpm, but otherwise the pick-up is quick and strong.

The steering could do with more feel, and the car just doesn’t have the nimbleness of my Almera nor my wife’s 1997 Primera Si. For me though, it’s perfectly adequate given the nature of most of my driving.

All in all, I think these cars are a bargain at today’s prices (Jan 2007). Go and try one.