Skoda Octavia vRS (2005 - 2013) 2.0T FSI vRS (2009) Estate 5d (2011/11) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I'd like to say it shows me as a mix of practical and a bit of sporty when it needs it. Not the kind of car chavs would use (I'll leave them to their plastic coated Corsas and Polos) but I don't drive like a hooligan and don't particularly want to stand out.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They all like it, although younger siblings might see it as a bit staid and boring, but no-one questions the interior quality, performance or day to day value for money.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, I'm definitely interested in the newer versions of it.

What are you likely to buy next?

In my current financial situation I am very tempted by the new 2013 Octavia VRS. If I am able to afford a bit of a step up then I might consider a BMW 5 series (used) - 3 litre or a bit of performance and some luxury.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£17,000

When did you buy the car?

March 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

There was no great ability to negotiate on price, I had no trade in and wanted no finance or insurance from them, so there wasn't much of a deal (other than the main "pay no VAT" offer they publicised at the time.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Impressed with older model, wanted sporty version, had some savings to spend, treat myself to a new car "once in a lifetime".

What was the dealer like?

Very good - professional, approachable, they came to my house (20 miles away or so) to allow me to test drive a car before I opted to purchase. Payment and collection were excellent. Subsequent contact has been good, although that has been with a different branch of the same dealership (closer to home).

What's it like to drive?

Great, quick off the mark when you need it to be, but no heavy clutch so easy to use in traffic. Cruise control makes it lovely on long motorway journeys. Handling seems good, although I don't push it too much. Front tyres can be slippery in slushy conditions, but just need to use common sense and the 2nd gear trick, no dramas really over the several winters I've owned the car.

What's it like to park?

I have rear sensors, and while very useful I find them a little pessimistic, I'd like the solid warning to be only a few inches from the obstacle just to allow navigation in really tight squeezes. Overall though nice steering and a decent lock make it very easy to park even though it's a pretty long car.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Some plastic trim on the gear knob came loose after about 9 months, causing discomfort when changing gears. However this was replaced under warranty within a few days. Apart from that the car has been 100% reliable, no issues at all.

What's most practical about your car?

Firstly the boot and interior space - I don't think you can beat it for the money, puts many more expensive cars to shame. Secondly the power from the 200bhp - over taking is very quick and effortless, that's a very practical aspect to me.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Auto lights and wipers - I just leave the switches untouched and the car handles the rest (although I do have to remember when getting into my wife's car that not all cars have these features!).