I love this new 1.4 TSI. Its so quiet at idle that it feels as though the engine is switched off (perhaps its one of those new-fangled stop-start devices). SUCH a change from the 2.0PD vibration and rattle through everything including the steering wheel.

BUT I liked the steering wheel rim in the old Octy and I don't think I like this new one I'm sorry to say. Its quite important really but those "thumb bulges" don't leave quite enough space for my thumbs and the stitching is noticably proud of the leather. Its not comfy at all. Also, I don't like that horrid plastic bit at the bottom of the vertical spoke. I can't think why it had to be designed like that (unless AUDI insisted that Skode was getting a bit too big for its boots or something).

On the plus side, however, I do like all the multi-function buttons, especially the Maxidot ones. Much better.

And everything else is lurvely. Was getting 43 mpg at a cruise-controlled 73 mph (70 on my satnav) on a 200 mile round trip yesterday. Not bad given that the car hasn't even notched up 1000 miles yet. Missing the torque a bit.

the dill

You'll soon adapt to the new style steering wheel, I found it far more comfy on a long journey than the old one (Superb uses same wheel as FL Octy). The stitching seems no worse to me than my previous octy elegance.