Skoda Octavia Hatchback (04 on) - Review

The Skoda Octavia accessories line-up originally consisted of four different trim levels - Classic, Ambiente, Elegance and the range-topping Laurin and Klement (named after Skoda's founders). All models were fitted with climate control, electric front windows, central locking, CD stereo and electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors. The Ambiente added key features such as alloy wheels, a six-CD autochanger, remote central locking, split folding rear seats, electric rear windows, alarm and a trip computer while opting for the Elegance you got 16-inch alloys, cruise control, dual-zone climate control, leather steering wheel and gear lever, auxiliary input for MP3 players and an air conditioned box between the front seats that doubles as an armrest. The L&K models added 17-inch alloys, full leather upholstery, heated front seats, automatic lights and wipers and a multifunction steering wheel. When the Octavia was revised in 2009 the Classis and Ambiente trim levels were changed to S, SE while Elegance and Laurin & Klement specifications remain. Despite being the eco-focused car, the Greenline II model doesn’t include the seemingly obligatory steel wheels or specific aero-dynamically enhanced mirrors. Instead, you still get 15-inch alloys, electrically adjustable and heated mirrors, rolling resistance tyres, tinted glass, body coloured bumpers and side mouldings, electric front windows, height adjustable driver’s seat, height-and-reach adjustable steering wheel, split-folding rear seat, touchscreen radio with six-CD changer and manual air conditioning. The additional SE Plus takes the SE trim level and adds floor mats, upgraded upholstery finish, parcel net, 16-inch alloys, rear parking sensors, ISOFIX on front passenger seat, maxi-dot trip computer, telephone preparation including Bluetooth, leather multi-function steering wheel and touchscreen sat-nav with iPod input. Options across the model range include heated rear and front seats, electric sunroof, upgraded sat-nav, six-CD autochanger in the boot, front parking sensors, tyre pressure monitor, towbar, heavy duty boot mat and full-size spare wheel. Even if you opt for the entry level S model you won’t feel shortchanged and, if you haggle hard enough, you might get some extras thrown in on top. We think the SE Plus is worth shelling out extra for: it has a decent level of kit and, with an upgraded sat nav, parking sensors and electric sunroof, it should help to preserve resale values.