So I got my Octavia SE-L First Edition 2.0 150 HP TDI estate today. It came a lot quicker than anticipated (about two weeks I bought one that was already pre specced and being built but the dealer thought it would be a month to six weeks). I previously had a 105 HP Mk III facelift DSG hatchback and before that a similar original MK III hatchback.
I have only had a chance to drive it 20 miles so far as yesterday it was horrible howling with rain and I had other things to do as well but here are my first impressions.
Whilst I would have bought a 105HP version if there had been one in the new line up as I had been satisfied with that engine in my previous Octavias the 150HP engine is definitely nicer from an acceleration point of view. Not blistering obviously (ah fond memories of my old Saab 9-5 Aero with 250HP on tap, that was fast) but definitely a more willing power plant. Should be much better for overtaking on motorways. It also seems quieter, in fact the cabin is quieter altogether I'm not sure if its just better sound proofing or a general improvement in aerodynamics that's reducing wind noise.
New DSG switch thing instead of a normal gear stick took only a few seconds to get used to. It definitely frees up space. I didn't really use the old version much to change gear just let the autobox do its thing but I gave the flappy paddles a go in the new one and they are better than doing it the old way. Might be fun for occasional "spirited driving" but that's not really what you buy this kind of car for.
The sound system sounds better than the old one at first listen. Haven't played with the adjustments yet but listening to DAB radio I tried speech (radio 4 ) and some music and it definitely sounded better. I have heard a lot better in some cars but this is fine.
The new seats are great. Very comfy but will need a long trip to properly evaluate. The electrically operated drivers seat is easy to use and set the memory on.
Rear view camera with overlay of where the car is going is well implemented especially if like me you're a bit rubbish at reversing.
The HuD is brilliant all cars should have it. I just had it on default settings but having the speed floating in front of you is excellent. Its sharp and non distracting.
The virtual cockpit is OK. I like that you can have the nav instead of the dials. Also the dials are clearer than on the MK III facelift which were a bit rubbish in daytime mode (fine on a night though) who thought whit numerals on a white background was a good idea !
I need to play with this and get it setup how I like it.
The new nav/infotainment system is a lot more complex than the old one. Its big and its clear and very customizable. |Feels like it will be good but its one of those thing that needs living with and using a lot before a verdict can be reached.
Lack of manual switches for heating etc. I though this would be more annoying than it is. I tend to just set the cabin temp and leave it at that so you might feel different. There are enough manual buttons below the screen fro the important stuff such as defogging the windows so n first impressions I think its going to be fine. I use the steering column mounted controls for stereo volume anyway.
Speaking of buttons and switches the ones under the infotainment system mentioned do feel a tad plasticy and cheap. Skoda could have done a better job with these. All the other ones elsewhere seem good.
The shiny fake chrome door furniture definitely does produce flashes out of the corner of your eye even on a dull day like yesterday. This may get annoying, lets see. The rest of the materials on the inside seem a bit of s step up from the previous model. I hope they wear as well.
Other than that its like every other Octavia I have driven or been in. Its not a luxury car but a sensible one and well specced for it price and in general thoughtfully laid out, easy to use and comfy with an enormous boot. The new exterior styling make sit look smart as well.