Skoda Octavia Spoiled for Choice

The Octavia is available in both sedan and wagon variants, features a choice of two TDI diesel engines and three petrol engines – all with high-pressure direct injection technology – complimented by no less than four transmissions, including DSG, with the availability of FWD or AWD - spoiled for choice is an understatement.

With so much choice, the Octavia is divided into three model ranges: Ambiente, Elegance and RS.

The entry level Octavia Ambiente features a 77kW 1.9-litre TDI turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine featuring high-pressure direct injection and EU4 emissions compliance. An impressive delivery of 250Nm of torque is available from 1900rpm.

A five-speed manual transmission is standard on Octavia Ambiente models, with a sophisticated Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) optional.

All wagon models are also available with an optional AWD system.

Standard features on the Ambiente include:

Next in the line up is the Octavia Elegance, which is available with three engine options.

First is a new 1.8-litre TFSI four-cylinder petrol engine which delivers 118kW of power and 250Nm of torque across a wide rev range (1500-2400rpm), and remains strictly EU4-compliant on emissions. This is offered with a six-speed manual transmission.

The second petrol engine is the naturally aspirated 2.0 FSI in-line four-cylinder, which delivers 110kW of power between 5000rpm and 6200rpm, and boasts a peak torque output of 200Nm at 3500rpm. The standard transmission for the 2.0 FSI is a six-speed automatic.

The final option for the Elegance is a 2.0 TDI. Peak power output is 103kW at 4000rpm, with torque of 320Nm all the way from 1750rpm to 2500rpm and is available with the choice of six-speed manual or six-speed DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox), which employs unique double-clutch system for efficient automated or manual shifting.

In addition to the equipment levels in the Ambiente range (above) elegance models receive:

The range topping Octavia RS is available, like the rest of the Octavia range, in both wagon and sedan body styles and features a 2.0 TFSI in-line four-cylinder petrol engine.

Power peaks at 147kW, whilst torque production is also strong and incredibly consistent across a broad operating range, with 280Nm available from a low 1800rpm all the way to 5000rpm.

The Octavia RS is available with a six-speed manual transmission, as well as 18-inch alloy wheels, sports-tuned suspension and responsive rack and pinion steering with electro-mechanical assistance.

On top of the Elegance equipment levels, the RS includes body-hugging heated front seats with sports trim, alarm system and sports instrument panel.

All the usual safety features are included as standard: ESP, ABS, EBC and TCS. Together with front, side and head airbags, and load-limiting seatbelt pre-tensioners, the Octavia is well equipped to protect its occupants from harm.

Pricing begins at $29,990 for the 1.9 TDI five-speed manual Ambiente sedan.