Yesterday I had an extended test drive in the new Superb, with a possible view to changing my PCP'd Octy 3 for one (SEL Executive). My thoughts are as follows :

The 2.0 l diesel is a peach, so smooth & powerful, the electrically opening hatch with one touch closing very impressive, and the ride & handling (on 19" wheels) really excellent.

However, I will not be getting one !   I cannot justify the extra financial outlay for a car that is greater in size, both inside & outside, than my needs require, plus, on returning to my Octy 3 I realised even more what a great car I already have !

2 years of ownership (well, PCP ownership !) and 22,000 miles of absolutely trouble-free motoring with a car that feels as solid and reliable as granite, great to drive and still looks "the bizz", has made me appreciate my beloved Octy 3 even more, and confirmed my resolution to exchange it for another one next year.

JKW

PS My local dealership went on-line to confirm my 1.6 Tdi is NOT involved / affected by VWGate !

 

The only car that would make me give up the Octavia MK3 VRS is a Tesla Model S. The Octy is the best car I have ever owned, and I've owned a lot of cars.

The only car that would make me give up the Octavia MK3 VRS is a Audi RS6. The Octy is the best car I have ever owned, and I've owned a lot of cars.

I have fixed it for you.

I think Tesla at the moment is a very clever marketing machine.

At the moment they sell vehicles to only the wealthy....in relatively low volumes and have geared up their dealer and charging networks so they can go the extra mile and beyond for their customers. You buy a Tesla, at this time you are made to feel special.

Be interesting to see if they can maintain this approach when they launch the the Model E/III whatever they'll call it....Id wager they'll become like any other manufactuer once they break the mainstream...if ever they are successful in doing so.

Elon Musk is an incredibly clever and bold guy and I have nothing but admiration for him and what he has done for Tesla but I do wonder whether breaking from his very lucrative nieche selling premium electric vehicles into the mainstream will work longer term.

For me though as a devout petrolhead the biggest problem I have with the Model S is that I think it lacks soul......its nice looking but stick it next to a Masarati Quattroporte or Ghibli for instance and i think it looks distinctly ordinary.....same for the interior the huge touchscreen detracting from the lack of flair in the interior elsewhere....not to mention it uses switchgear from a Merc E Class...not that its bad but hardly bespoke.

Also whilst they are bloody fast even in basic 70KwH 2wd configuration....Id still rather rev a nice sounding engine.....whilst undoubtedly effective I just cant see it being overly satisfying.

Im speculating though as I havent driven one (and probably never will) but given the choice of a 700hp electric or petrol car....whilst not very environmentally minded id have to take the petrol.

Let's see what everyone prefer;

 

I think most people would rather have a Model S to an Octavia.

Just for me I admire the Model S for its relative achievements (a v fast, practical zero emissions sedan that for an electric car has bordering on a real world reliable range) but they just dont excite me very much.

Id rather an M5, E63 or RS6 but thats just me.

I'd rather my octy over a tesla. Don't like the interior, and think what I could do with the money I'd save. I could buy a decent car. A Jaaaaaag.