Here’s our guide to navigating the variants and options on offer with the 2022 Drive Car of the Year Best Medium-to-Large car
During 2022 Drive Car of the Year Best Medium to Large Car assessment, the judges panel found it hard to go past the 2022 Skoda Octavia.
From small details, like tablet holders on the seatbacks and bag hooks in the boot, to more profound pluses like stacks of boot space and efficient but punchy powertrains, the Octavia range has it covered.
It had no easy fight on its hands either, facing off against the well-respected Volkswagen Passat, the sporty Hyundai Sonata, and the previously unassailable Toyota Camry.
From ease of use (that liftback on the ‘sedan’ is a handy thing to have), to ease of purchase (yours from as little as $37,490 drive-away) the latest Skoda Octavia offers a broad range of models and powertrains to fit almost every type of buyer.
The Skoda Octavia range comes in four distinct variants right now – all available in a choice of liftback or wagon models.
The Octavia 110TSI Ambition opens the range with a 110kW 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine and eight-speed automatic. Small though the power output might seem, its turbocharged 250Nm makes this an engine that feels much bigger.
Eight airbags, cyclist and pedestrian detecting autonomous emergency braking, a 10-inch touchscreen, wireless phone charging, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and start, and LED headlights make the Octavia Ambition feel far from entry-level. Pricing starts from $37,490 drive-away.
Next up, the Octavia 110 TSIStyle takes the same mechanicals but adds satellite navigation, front park sensors (in addition to rears), front fog lights, alarm, advanced matrix headlights. Style pricing starts from $39,990 drive-away but also allows the option of Tech and Luxury packs that can add features like adaptive cruise control, head-up display, and three zone climate control, or leather trimmed electrically adjustable sears, adaptive lane assist, and heated front and rear seats.
Right now the next step is the 140TSI Octavia Limited Edition from $51,490 which adds a 140kW 2.0-litre engine and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Equipment makes this ‘one with the lot’ with all available options bundled in. Later in 2022 this model will be replaced by the 140TSI Sportline, which is likely to keep a high level of equipment and add in some sporting touches.
Crowning the range is the Octavia RS, Skoda’s hot hatch in medium car clothing, Powered by a 180kW 2.0-litre engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch auto. The RS features specially tuned suspension and steering, unique bumpers, 19-inch alloy wheels, and deeply sculpted sports seats. Pricing starts from $54,990 plus on-road costs.
Our pick:Skoda Octavia 110TSI Style
With a compelling list of standard inclusions, and a price point that’s accessible to a wide range of Australian families, the Octavia 10TSI Style backs up its practicality with some special touches that even put some prestige cars to shame.
While it may not look exciting on paper, the 110TSI engine is flexible enough to run around town unperturbed, with smooth and quiet cruising capabilities, and a claimed fuel consumption as low as 5.7L/100km.
Sure, you can find more power higher up in the range, but the entry-level engine is unlikely to leave you wanting during the daily grind.
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