Faults:

Had to change the cam-belt and water pump, but that is just maintenance.

Seems heavy on brake pads, but I drive it hard sometimes.

General Comments:

2016 Octavia vRS in white - petrol version, a bit more exclusive as most are the diesel versions.

Comfortable and spacious inside, the vRS has very nice sporty seats and good equipment levels.

With 217 bhp this car is a joy to drive. It is the six speed manual, which I much prefer over the DSG auto box. Still manages close to 40 mpg or more on average. Realistically however, you'll get 30 - something or less driving fast. If that is a concern, try the diesels. But the petrol engine's strengths are ultimately in more refinement, and they are a bit quicker off the mark.

Dark grey alloy wheels with red brake calipers. My car is the pre-facelift before the 2017 updates. I prefer this version's looks.

Given the performance, (around 0 - 60 mph in six and a half seconds and it can do over 150 mph) there is little to touch these cars in regards to value for money! Plenty on the used market - do your research and buy carefully, avoid thrashed examples.

Faults:

Turbo failure was the most expensive and disappointing fault. Not common, but I have heard of a few others with similar cars have had their turbo fail early.

The car has otherwise been fine, changed the cam-belt and water-pump, but that's just preventative maintenance. All oil changes done, essential for any car.

Plus the usual wear and tear (brake pads, tyres, etc.)

General Comments:

A fine car to own and drive, the popular Octavia never disappoints.

I bought this one on the strength of reliability from previous cars; I have had all previous generations of Octavia and they have all lasted well over 100,000 miles with no serious issues. They can be expensive to maintain or repair - but it is worth it. These cars return with durability and economy. Cheap tax, good miles per gallon (easily over 50 mpg from any diesel engine) and reasonable insurance costs.

The 2.0 TDi is probably the best all round engine to go for. A little rough and noisy but not bad once you get on the motorway. Power is dependent on version (there are a few different horse power outputs) but all have decent acceleration for the average driver. If you want absolute economy, try the 1.6 TDi. If you want more performance, try the sporty vRS models. But the standard 2.0 TDi will do most drivers fine.

Looks great in darker colors on the exterior, and it has nice alloy wheels. The car is OK to drive, handles all right, 5 speed manual transmission lacks feeling but no big deal. Good equipment levels, and the seats are comfy on this SE model. There is a bit of wind noise but never too intrusive. Visibility is good for a modern car. Interior is functional, nothing exciting but it all works.

Be aware they are popular as taxis so avoid very high mileage over priced cars on the used market. But find a low mileage cared for car and you easily have one of the best cars out there for the money.

Faults:

Nothing beyond the wear and tear expected of mileage. Suspension knocking - fixed at MOT. I do service it and it had full dealer history upon purchase. Some stone chips here and there. Center console display can be a little hesitant.

General Comments:

My Octavia vRS in blue with 180 bhp is the entry level performance car, but is still very good. Last of the 2013 shape before the split headlight change in 2017, my 2016 is the last of the better looking ones (in my opinion). I opted not to bother with the 4x4 option as well, but would love to know what the higher horsepower version (245 bhp?) is like.

Meanwhile my DSG automatic vRS is fast enough for me - about 7 sec to 60 mph and can do 140 mph. Not that I have tried that or anything. Forget Skoda's claim of over 60 mpg - mid 50's is more likely. Still good considering the performance.

Ride is rather firm but is expected of the faster version with sharper suspension. Comfort is still very good and the car has electric everything. Seats are very nice and I love the interior design touches, and exterior.

If you want space and economy with performance also, check out the Octavia vRS.