Just got new Octavia VRS Diesel. How long does anybody recommend for running in and when will engine be loosened up enough to give claimed mpg? Cheers

Well I have just passed 10000 miles and the mpg is still climbing. I am currently getting high 40's, or low 50's on a longer run.

Just got new Octavia VRS Diesel. How long does anybody recommend for running in and when will engine be loosened up enough to give claimed mpg? Cheers

I did my running in as per the handbook and have a really sweet and responsive motor, possibly helps that the car gets a good run daily.

MPG was certainly still improving at 5,000 miles and even now at 16,000 the car seems sweeter still (with a nudge better mpg).

There are different schools of thought on this.

For instance - have a look here

Break In Secrets--How To Break In New Motorcycle and Car Engines For More Power

"Running in":

I drove mine sensibly for 1,000 miles (as per handbook and dealer advice).

Then it was chipped and looned!

"Bedding in"

At 8,600 miles the engine produces 4bhp more and the economy continues to rise.

Average is currently 46mpg, long runs have seen 61 mpg.

I had a PD150 Golf GTI before and it was still getting better economy when I sold it at 16k miles.

I did my running in as per the handbook and have a really sweet and responsive motor, possibly helps that the car gets a good run daily.

MPG was certainly still improving at 5,000 miles and even now at 16,000 the car seems sweeter still (with a nudge better mpg).

... perhaps I should add that I would give the engine good burst of throttle quite often and would not let it 'labour' i.e. I'd change down one or two gears to keep the revs up (over 2,000) on an incline or for M'way acceleration I'd drop to 5th or 4th, rather than labour in 6th.