Should you buy a used Skoda Octavia Estate?

It’s very hard to find a reason not to. The Octavia Estate is one of several very competent cars based on VW Group’s MQB platform, and represents the best blend of space and value for money of the lot. You can find used Skoda Octavia Estates offering economical and clean-burning 1.0-litre petrol, or potent torquey 4×4 diesel, right up to a 245hp fast load-lugger. There’s plenty of variety in trim too, though we’re fans of SE Technology as an easy-to-find, well-equipped lavel.

Despite Skoda’s position within the group as being the ‘sensible’ brand there are plenty of luxury features available if you’re patient. Approved-used Octavias offer a safe purchase route for more recent models, but as a used car the Octavia is a relatively low-risk purchase with few weaknesses.

However, it’s important to look at the overall cost of ownership if you’re considering one of more expensive versions – new Skoda Octavia lease deals can be quite competitive, and there may be offers on Skoda’s own PCP finance that make used car monthly payments look like poor value.

Likewise, at the older end of the market it’s worth having a look at used Skoda Superb Estate prices if space is your priority. It’s considerably bigger, but may not cost much more by the time both options are approaching 10 years old. Remember that not all Octavia diesel models are ULEZ compliant – use the TfL website to check the registration of pre-2015 models you’re considering if in doubt.

We’re fans of the 1.5 TSI Evo with its fuel-saving cylinder deactivation tech and ample 150hp, but the existence of non-sporty, sensibly-priced diesel 4x4s is also welcome for rural drivers. And the vRS is understated fun – if you want something more adventurous in styling, the SEAT Leon ST is worth checking out.

What we like about the 2013-20 Skoda Octavia Estate

Very practical, generally economical across the board, flexible range of engines, gearboxes and trim levels, lots of practical touches from Skoda’s simply clever philosophy, nicer fit and finish than you might expect.

What we don’t like

Early models are more obviously ‘less upmarket’ than in-house rivals, such as high-end audio that isn’t very high end, some conflicting information around maintenance from Skoda that might mean cars have missed services – or that owners can get charged for work that isn’t needed. The 1.6-litre diesel pre-2015 is also a bit of a weak spot in an otherwise very impressive range.