Here's What It's Actually Like To Own a Skoda
As the sole European member of the
Motor1
US team, I often prod my colleagues about just how good I have it when it comes to car variety. Despite living in an SUV era, Europe still has hatchbacks, sedans, and wagons abound. I can still get a regular Volkswagen Golf here in Romania, even with a manual gearbox. However, in 2017, I chose its superior alternative: The Skoda Octavia.
For those who don't know, "Octavia" is derived from the Latin word for "eight."
Skoda
opted for this moniker because the original car, launched in 1959, was its eighth model after the end of World War II. My car turned eight a few weeks ago, so I figured now would be the right time to report on what it's been like living with Czechia's hugely successful family car.
My 2017 Skoda Octavia
Photo by: Adrian Padeanu
What I Love About My Skoda
My Skoda has been a reliable partner from day one. I've never had a problem with it, and it still runs as if I just drove it off the dealer lot. It has been religiously serviced every year by a mechanic whom I fully trust. I always ask him to give the car a once-over and tell me if there's something I should replace. That hasn't happened so far.
The car has nearly 90,000 kilometers—or 56,000 freedom units—on the odometer. There are a few reasons why the mileage is relatively low. During the first years of ownership, I still had my old car, a Kia Pro Ceed coupe, which I drove when I needed to run errands by myself. Then, COVID-19 arrived in 2020, when my daughter was barely three years old. My wife and I decided not to take any risks, so we stayed home for the better part of two years.
I went on to replace the Kia with a far more exciting car, a Mazda MX-5 Miata RF (ND2), which I had for about a year. I had my fun with the "mid-life crisis" car, but I ultimately parted ways with the hardtop convertible because I didn't have the time to enjoy it thoroughly. Since mid-2023, the Octavia has been my only car.
When My Skoda Was Still New, With the Factory Bridgestone tires. I Installed Michelins Last Month
There are many reasons why I like the Octavia. Despite being labeled as a compact car, it's about as large as a VW Passat. It's immensely practical, especially when compared to the
Golf
upon which it's based. I still think it's the perfect body style since it combines the silhouette of a sedan with the tailgate of a hatchback. Hot take: all sedans should be hatchbacks, or better said, liftbacks.
There's plenty of room in the back, and the huge cargo area can accommodate bulky items with ease. It can swallow 20.8 cubic feet (590 liters) behind the rear seats, and if you fold them down, there's enough room to cram in a mattress I bought for my daughter's bed.
Photo by: Adrian Padeanu
I bought the car just before the VW Group began to slide down a slippery slope in terms of interiors. The build quality is rock-solid, and there are still plenty of physical buttons and knobs that I use without taking my eyes off the road. Muscle memory is safer than relying on a touchscreen. I know, I know; old man yells at cloud.
The dashboard layout with the screen fully integrated is just about perfect, and I wouldn't change a thing. Well, maybe I'd get rid of the blank buttons that remind me I didn't tick all the boxes on the options list.
But I did splurge on extras. My friends and family were surprised to see heated rear seats in a Skoda. My Octavia also has dual USB ports in the back, which weren't that common on mainstream cars eight years ago. When extra charging juice is necessary beyond what those outdated USB ports can deliver, I rely on the rear power outlet (150 watts), a rare feature in this segment.
Photo by: Adrian Padeanu
Photo by: Adrian Padeanu
The engine is a gem. It's the ubiquitous 1.8 TSI, specifically the EA888 in its third generation. The VW Group largely addressed the problems of its predecessors, including high oil consumption, timing chain issues, and water pump leaks. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers 180 hp and 184 pound-feet (250 Nm) of torque.
Ok, that might not sound like much in horsepower-hungry America, but the Octavia is a relatively light car, weighing in at just over 3,000 pounds (1,360 kilograms). It's no slouch either, doing 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in roughly seven seconds. I won't be setting Nürburgring records anytime soon, but the engine is poky enough for what I need.
I opted for the six-speed manual, but in hindsight, I should've splurged on the dual-clutch automatic. As a man pushing 40 and having to do school runs in rush hour in a crowded city, the stick is honestly becoming a nuisance. Not going for the DSG is without a doubt my biggest regret. My next car will certainly be an automatic. I already know what I'll buy, but more on that later.
What I Don't Love About My Skoda
I still don't like the split headlights. They look like knockoff lights for a Mercedes E-Class (W212) from Temu. I get what Skoda was trying to do by making the inner part of the headlight merge with the grille, but it just doesn't work. It irks me to see how the bumper divides the headlight into two pieces. It's worth noting that despite the apparent split layout, the headlight is actually a one-piece unit.
The horror
Although it features a full-LED setup, the headlights are not particularly impressive. Perhaps the Miata's superior matrix LEDs spoiled me, and now I'm finding the Octavia's headlights a downgrade. The current-generation model does a far better job at illuminating the road ahead, and the headlights also look way nicer.
The gearing is annoyingly long. It's my fault for not driving an Octavia before buying it. I didn't, because there wasn't one available at my local dealer with the 1.8 TSI, so I figured, why bother? Big mistake. It really hinders the engine's capabilities, but I assume Skoda went this way to improve efficiency. After all, European emissions regulations are the strictest in the world.
The rear suspension is a bit on the loud side. It's been this way since day one, though it's not a major concern since the noise only becomes noticeable on rough roads. The car also sits higher than I'd like, but I've been told VW/Skoda tunes the suspension based on the country. Because roads in Romania are some of the worst in Europe, ground clearance is higher. While I'm not a fan of modifying cars, I may lower it one day.
On the other hand, my Octavia features a multi-link rear setup, a benefit that comes with the 1.8-liter engine. I've driven lower-spec Octavias with a torsion beam, and the difference is noticeable. The VW Group used to equip most configurations of its compact cars with an independent rear suspension, but in the era of cost-cutting, every euro saved counts.
The Essential Rear Wiper
Photo by: Adrian Padeanu
Soundproofing could be better. The car tends to get noisy at higher speeds, and while I know the Octavia isn't a luxury car, I still wish it had more noise-absorbing materials. The fancier Superb does better in that regard, but it was simply too expensive for what I was looking for when I went car shopping eight years ago.
I wish the Octavia had a larger fuel tank. At 23.5 miles per gallon (10 liters/100 kilometers) in the city, fuel consumption isn't terrible for a non-hybrid with a relatively large engine. Well, 'large' by European standards, as three-cylinder 1.0-liter engines are unfortunately prevalent on the continent. I can't drive it for more than 310 miles (500 kilometers) in the city before the gas light turns on. Out on the open road, I can probably nearly double that if I fully commit to hypermiling.
The infotainment system is occasionally laggy, but perhaps I shouldn't complain, given the numerous software issues newer VW Group cars have experienced. Support for wireless Android Auto would've been nice, although I'm probably nitpicking by now.
Photo by: Adrian Padeanu
So, What's Next?
Well, not much. I plan to keep the car for at least another five years. The EU's ban on new cars with combustion engines is looming, but I intend to get a final ICE car before they're outlawed. The cut-off date is 2035, so I still have about nine years left to take the plunge.
When the time comes, it'll be another Skoda, either another Octavia or I'll stretch the budget for a
Superb
. Either way, it'll definitely be a wagon. As practical as my pseudo-sedan is, a wagon's taller rear section makes it even more spacious.
Sure, I could get a nicer, lightly used BMW 3 Series Touring, but I'd always worry about maintenance and repair costs. The Octavia has been cheap to run and trouble-free so far, so I'd trust Skoda once again with my money. However, I'll have to fork out a lot more. I paid about €22,000 in 2017, but an equivalent car is now well over €30,000. Upgrading to a Superb would push the price into €40,000 territory. Skoda isn't an isolated case; that's how the cookie crumbles with new car prices around the world.
Skoda Octavia eight-year ownership
22
Source: Adrian Padeanu
More on Skoda
Skoda Turned an Old Hatchback Into an Awesome New Concept
This High-Power Skoda Wagon Is Our New Favorite Sleeper
Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily.
back
Sign up
For more information, read our
Privacy Policy
and
Terms of Use
.
Share this Story
Facebook
X
LinkedIn
Flipboard
Reddit
WhatsApp
E-Mail
Got a tip for us? Email:
tips@motor1.com
Join the conversation
(
)
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Motor Trend
4 hours ago
- Motor Trend
2026 Volkswagen SUVs: Tiguan Turbo Comin' in Hot
As it did last year, Volkswagen spreads the love across its SUV lineup for 2026, delivering updates for every one of its models. Leading the charge is the Tiguan compact crossover, which adds a new turbocharged variant that brings extra excitement to the range. Keep reading to find out what's new for 2026 Volkswagen SUVs. Volkswagen's 2026 SUV lineup sees updates across all models. The Tiguan adds a powerful turbo variant, while the Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, ID4, and Taos receive minor upgrades. Notable changes include tech enhancements and styling updates for a more modern appeal. This summary was generated by AI using content from this MotorTrend article Read Next 2026 Volkswagen Atlas For 2026, the Volkswagen Atlas three-row SUV carries over mostly unchanged. The only update is the addition of a factory-installed HomeLink rearview mirror on the SE with Technology trim, which integrates universal garage door remote buttons. The Atlas underwent a midcycle refresh for the 2024 model year, gaining enhanced performance, updated styling, and new standard features such as large driver and infotainment displays and a heated steering wheel. That refresh also marked the discontinuation of the V-6 engine, which was replaced by a more powerful turbo-four. MotorTrend Ranked: No. 13 in three-row SUVs (2025 model). Read Our Experts' Full Volkswagen Atlas Review 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Like the standard Atlas, the only update to the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport midsize SUV is the addition of a HomeLink rearview mirror on the SE with Technology trim, allowing drivers to program garage door and gate openers directly into the mirror. The Cross Sport received a significant refresh for the 2024 model year, including updated exterior styling and a more modern interior. The 2025 model brought enhanced technology features and improved overall refinement. MotorTrend Ranked: No. 11 in midsize SUVs (2025 model). Read Our Experts' Full Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Review Every 2026 ID4 model scores a standard ZEV3 2-in-1 charging cable, enabling both Level 1 and Level 2 home charging from a single cord. The ID4 Pro S Plus AWD trim also gains a HomeLink rearview mirror. Volkswagen has announced that a mid-model-year update is coming in early 2026, which will introduce more features for the ID4—including the addition of a built-in NACS (North American Charging System) port similar to Tesla's design. MotorTrend Ranked: No. 5 in electric compact SUVs (2025 model). Read Our Experts' Full Volkswagen ID4 Review 2026 Volkswagen Taos Changes to the 2026 Taos are minimal, highlighted by newly standard rear seatbelt pretensioners, an improved seatbelt reminder system, and updated black badging on the SE Black model. The Taos received a more substantial refresh for the 2025 model year, which brought increased horsepower, a new transmission, and notable upgrades to both technology and styling. MotorTrend Ranked: No. 9 in subcompact SUVs (2025 model). Read Our Experts' Full Volkswagen Taos Review 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan After a full redesign for 2025, the 2026 Tiguan sees a few key updates, including a revised hands-free driving system. This year also introduces a new, more powerful top-of-the-line trim: the SEL R-Line Turbo. It replaces the outgoing SEL R-Line in the Tiguan lineup. The Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo is powered by a turbocharged engine making 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, an improvement of 67 hp and 51 lb-ft over the standard Tiguan, and it remains compatible with regular gasoline, offering strong performance without the need for premium fuel. Standard 4Motion all-wheel drive and slightly larger brakes enhance the Turbo's handling and braking confidence. Visually, the Tiguan Turbo stands out with 20-inch black wheels, black mirror caps, and a contrasting black roof, giving it a sportier, more aggressive look. MotorTrend Ranked: No. 12 in compact SUVs (2024 model). Read Our Experts' Full Volkswagen Tiguan Review 2026 Volkswagen SUVs: What's New 2026 Volkswagen Atlas: Minor update 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport: Minor update 2026 Volkswagen ID4: Minor update 2026 Volkswagen Taos: Minor update 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan: Significant update
Car and Driver
4 hours ago
- Car and Driver
View Exterior Photos of the 2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS
It also completed the quarter-mile in 12.1 seconds at 112 mph. In both metrics, the new Cayenne GTS is better than a 2021 Cayenne GTS Coupe we tested.
Motor 1
5 hours ago
- Motor 1
'Respectfully, Maserati Is Not for Sale:' Stellantis Denies Another Rumor About the Brand's Possible Sale
Maserati isn't doing well. Sales for the Italian brand collapsed in 2024 , and they saw a 48 percent decline through the first three months of 2025. That's bleak. The poor sales have led to rumors that Stellantis might sell the Italian brand, but the automotive conglomerate continues to deny any such allegations . Stellantis did so again this week when Reuters asked the automaker if it had plans to sell Maserati amid a new rumor. A spokesperson rebuffed the allegation and told the publication, 'Respectfully, Maserati is not for sale,' reconfirming its commitment to the brand. Photo by: Maserati However, Reuters 's two sources allege McKinsey, the consultant Stellantis hired in April to navigate President Donald Trump's new import tariffs , could recommend that the automaker divest in Maserati in some way. It's supposedly one of the options McKinsey is exploring for the automaker. According to one source, Stellantis has told the consultancy to consider all possibilities for the ailing brand. However, McKinsey is allegedly still in the early phases of its work, so any definitive decision about Maserati's future is unlikely to arrive anytime soon. Another source told Reuters there is disagreement among the board about what to do with the Italian company. Some supposedly believe the brand has value to the automaker as its only luxury marque. However, others think Stellantis doesn't have the resources to support Maserati as it struggles to revamp its lineup. Maserati's Lacking Lineup Maserati has discontinued the Ghibli and the Levante, two of its best-selling models, but their replacements won't arrive until 2028 and 2027, respectively. That leaves the $80,000 Grecale (pictured below) as its only SUV in an industry where consumers continue to flock to such vehicles. It also sells the Gran Turismo , a coupe, and the MC20 supercar. Neither of those cars has broad appeal, and neither are enough to keep a brand afloat. Last year, former Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares admitted that Maserati was ' in the red .' Replacing the Levante and Ghibli could help turn around the brand's sales and financial outlook, but the luxury market is highly competitive. Alfa Romeo, another of Stellantis's Italian companies, is revamping its lineup, and it can't have products that interfere with Maserati's and vice versa. That leaves little room for either. Stellantis: Trump's Tariffs Could Force Stellantis to Sell Alfa Romeo and Maserati Maserati's Problems Go Deeper Than Marketing Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Source: Reuters Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
