I test drove a Mk 3 1.6 TDi manual Elegance yesterday, with four big male adults Skoda fans on board for ballast, and was genuinelly impressed with the latest car.

Having started buying VAG cars in 1998 with a Mk 4 Golf, I have owned 2 Fabias, a Mk 2 and FL Octavias, I have been very pleased with the improving quality and sophistication of Skodas, but the new car really is in an even higher class still, equal to VW and Audi - unless you really can't live without their designer badges naturally.

The new chassis rides and handles very well, despite being the older style rear axle with torsion beams, even on a very badly pock marked local road which upsets the ride on my FL 1.4 TSI with the current multi link rear axle.

The build quality really is superb, from the exterior doors handles (which are a lot chunkier and give a much classier first impression) to the front seats which are much more solidly made and comfortable than on my FL. The whole car has a thoroughly Audi quality feel to it.

The rear legroom really is impressive now and rear passengers compared it to the current Superb, which now seems a bit dated in comparison.

The 1.6 diesel is quiet and for most drivers should provide a good balance of pace and economy (even with 4 x 14 stone occupants).

The latest Maxidot is very cool with the vehicle speed being displayed in nice clear digits about 18mm high and the functions scroll smoothly through i-Phone style from the multi-function steering wheel roller.

Sadly, 3 years free servicing and £500 conribution toward the 3 year 6.9% finance won't see me changing just yet, but if Skoda UK introduce do the same 0% VAT and 0% finance deal as the outgoing model I may have to persuade SWMBO to take a test ride and let the car do the rest.

I've ordered a 1.6Tdi manual Elegance in race blue, I test drove a 1.6Tdi manual SE, & I was really impressed with it!!

I have had Octavias since 1999, currently in my 3rd, & eagerly awaiting the 4th, I have signed for the above deal, on a solutions contract,

main reason for my haste, I don't really like the colour (satin grey metallic,a sort of blue-ish silvery grey) of my current car,(having switched from a race blue vrs 2.0Tfsi).

So I'm getting my race blue back, the 1.6Tdi with manual box, seems much faster than my 1.6Tdi dsg, thinking the new motor will be a keeper!!!

reason for my haste, I don't really like the colour (satin grey metallic,a sort of blue-ish silvery grey) of my current car

BEST REASON TO CHANGE CARS EVER!

Well, I have to justify part exchanging a 10 month old car to myself somehow!!

Truth is, it's a new car & I want one!! Simples!!!

Well, I have to justify part exchanging a 10 month old car to myself somehow!!

Truth is, it's a new car & I want one!! Simples!!!

Good for you. Enjoy it. I think it is great too! I also want one.

Drove a 1.6 tdi elegance today and thought it was really good. The 1.6 went well and thought it was well it together. Liked the seats as well and the legroom was excellent.

The chassis felt like it could handle way more power and will have to have a go in the more powerful versions.

Think I will upgrade when the year olds start coming in the forecourt