Octavia gets a discreet new shape

Skoda's Octavia, launched in 1996, has a new shape, but it's not conspicuous

Skoda's Octavia, launched in 1996, has a new shape, but it's not conspicuous. It sticks to the VW Group maxim, "if it ain't broke don't fix it", like VW's Golf approach.

The two cars use the same platform, although you'd never think it. Octavia has the profile of a substantially bigger model, part of Skoda's strategy of delivering an "extra bit of car" at a value similar to its competitors. We will see the new range here in September and this second generation will be expected to expand on its success in Ireland with over 15,000 units sold.

The difference between old and new is best seen in the longer 66mm wheelbase, providing more leg space for rear passengers and visually prolonging the compact design of the passenger compartment.

However, it's the boot that really takes some beating. Luggage space in the old Octavia was something to be marvelled at and now Skoda have gone even further. The rear area takes 560 litres or 1,350 litres with the rear seats folded, up respectively from 528 and 1,328 litres.

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The engine line-up has six petrol from 1.4 to 2-litres and two diesels are 1.9 and 2.0 TDi - all are transversely mounted driving the front wheels. Most Irish buyers will go for the 1.4 and 1.6 petrol cars with 75 and 102bhp and the 105bhp 1.9TDi.

The 1.4 isn't for those in a hurry - 0-62mph time is 15.5 seconds and top speed is 105mph. Skoda says diplomatically that the engine is "perfectly suited to those who plan to use their car in urban and suburban traffic and for whom the purchase price plays an important role."

Better performance, especially through gears, comes with the 1.6 - 0-62mph in just over 11 seconds and top speed 123mph. The 1.9TDi, minimally slower, majors on high torque at low revs and, with latest direct fuel injection, promises about 55mpg or 5.0 litres to 100 kilometres in the combined regime.

Skoda engineers say the new models offer superior driving characteristics, mainly through redesigned chassis and electro-mechanical steering. It all should mean better directional stability and easier turns and parking.

It's premature to talk about Irish pricing: negotiations have still to take place with the Czech Republic homebase. The current entry-level model with the 1.4 petrol engine has a €17,915 tag so realistically it's likely to cost a bit more.