The flattering Skoda Octavia Combi is quite right

Recently refreshed in its mid-life facelift, the latest generation Skoda Octavia Combi hasn't forgotten its fundamentals. Family-friendly, a companion, and a colleague, this industrious Czech vehicle compelled us to set off on an adventure and drive.

Isn't that what a car is supposed to do: compel you to venture off the trodden path while being comfortable in everyday life? In this respect, the story of the Octavia is a romance between Škoda and the European market. Even more so in its Combi estate variant. The 2024 facelift of the 4th modern generation hasn't taken away any of its qualities. It has provided a redesigned LED face and a more technological interior with wireless Apple and Android pairing and slightly larger screens. These aren't all-knowing. There are still buttons and shortcuts. Easy and smart: the confirmation of the 'Simply clever' slogan dear to the brand. Further proof that there are things that shouldn't change in the Octavia, such as the umbrella in the door, the scraper inside the fuel flap, the luggage cover that rolls up with a little tap, the storage space under the boot floor, the luggage divider bars...

On all fours

However, the facelift has brought a revision of the petrol offer. Under the bonnet, it's a 4-cylinder. For this test, it was at the wheel of the 1.5-litre version with 150 hp equipped with 48 V micro-hybrid technology and the 7-speed DSG automatic transmission. For information sake, Škoda still offers the choice of a manual gearbox to its customers, in petrol (116 hp and 150 hp) and Diesel (115 hp). Back on the spring road for our discovery drive with 150 hp and full equipment. The DSG selector is a simple toggle. Less prominent than a selector, the switch caught me by surprise 2-3 times with engaging neutral N instead of R or D when manoeuvring. A beginner's clumsiness (with this model), no doubt.

Soft as cotton wool

Škoda is not the type to rush things unless there's the RS logo for the sporty variants. This Octavia 1.5 TSI m-HEV is therefore rather calm. It mostly has the gift of offering well-calibrated driving modes. In Sport, it will be fierce and willing, in Normal, it finds the right balance, and in Comfort, like the cloud it represents, it smooths out irregularities under the wheels, notably on a dry dirt track we were tempted to take. There is, of course, a customisable mode to adjust the chassis, the steering wheel, and the accelerator to one's moods and desires. The comfort of the estate car also includes excellent spaciousness. Rear passengers don't need to fold their legs. And at the front, the 'ergo' seats, with a massage function, are there to pamper the back.

Generous

The best part of the Octavia Combi remains its boot. Luggage, bicycle, party clutter, tools, rubbish: everything fits into these 640 litres, which expand to 1700 litres when the rear seats are folded down. This spaciousness is also an invitation to travel. The 150 hp won't lose power in the long run. However, real consumption is around 6 litres/100 km, without pushing it too hard or dragging along.

In the mountains, the paddles can add a bit of spice to driving with a DSG box that is manually controlled. Slightly understeering and sometimes a bit floaty, the Octavia remains, however, healthy and willing. Additionally, it doesn't nag you at every minor error with vigilant but non-harassing driver assistance systems. Thus, it's a true partner for serene wanderings over hill and dale.

Winning Formula

As you understood, I didn't have a real disapproving frown at its wheel. Nor did I have an ecstatically blissful laugh. The Czech cousin of the Golf is delightful in terms of space, simplicity, and efficiency. But the Octavia is neither mischievous nor creative. A lack of cheerfulness, this time compensated by a Cognac interior of the most beautiful effect. A tablet holder behind the front passenger seat will calm the offspring (or mother-in-law) comfortably settled on the bench to dive into a virtual world while the scenery passes all around this cocoon. And to enjoy the TV show even more, the blinds allow the rear part of the cabin to be plunged into darkness. Provided you pull the panoramic sunroof blind. Another window – optional – towards Octavian dreams for those who are driven aboard this Škoda.

Pricey

"You're pushing it a bit Jana," one might be tempted to say when the bill comes. The cheap Škoda days are long gone. The Octavia rides on its success and quality with a heavier price tag. Admittedly, in terms of rationality, efficiency, simplicity, and ergonomics, it's worth it. With this 1.5 MHEV 150 hp engine, the Czech estate car starts at 44,000 euros in Belgium. To have it with such lovely interior and exterior trappings as our road companion, the bill goes up to 58,740 euros, excluding road taxes, with packs, 18-inch wheels, a tow hitch, and various options! By being less greedy on power and accessories, the entry-level petrol price with 116 hp is 33,500 euros with a manual gearbox. There's also Diesel starting at 42,000 euros for 115 hp. But it's a whole different universe, less opulent.

In France, Škoda offers an Octavia Combi with 150 hp more or less similar to our test vehicle for 55,000 euros. In Switzerland, expect to shell out nearly 60,000 CHF. But if one has the means to indulge in such a pleasure, one can forgive its excesses. And still enjoy, for a time, the nostalgic flavour of combustion driving.

(MH with Olivier Duquesne – Source: Škoda – Pictures: © Olivier Duquesne)