Skoda Octavia - Interior, design and technology

Skoda has introduced a smarter, more stylish look for the fourth-generation Octavia. The revised grille and new standard LED headlights are complemented by sharper creases running along the side panels, while the previous square-style taillights have been redesigned to include slimmer LED units. The Czech manufacturer has also succumbed to the current badging trend of placing its name in wide script across the boot, although it certainly adds to an overall classier feel.

Inside, the materials are of a quality to compete with the Volkswagen Golf and there’s a good level of standard kit. The SE model includes 16-inch alloy wheels, a leather-trimmed multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, climate control and rear parking sensors. The SE Technology trim adds sat-nav and a 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit digital instrument panel, plus access to Skoda's infotainment online and remote access for one year.

The SE L specification includes bigger 17-inch alloys, adaptive cruise control and front parking sensors, while sporty vRS models get 19-inch alloy wheels, full LED Matrix headlights, LED rear lights and black vRS sports upholstery with red stitching.

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Sat-nav, stereo and infotainment

The infotainment is one area where the Octavia has really moved on. All models feature a 10-inch touchscreen with the SE Technology, SE L and vRS versions adding integrated sat-nav. There’s no volume knob, with a slider function located beneath the screen allowing you to adjust the level. This works okay, and at least you can tap the slider to a point for your desired volume.

There are also no physical climate dials, with the left and right temperature controls integrated into the bottom of the touchscreen. There’s an advanced climate-controlled function to warm your feet or cool your face, but you can still set everything up manually, too.

The menus are well laid out, the screen response is good, and the graphics are sharp. You also get lots of kit, with sat-nav, Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay, but you have to pay extra for a wireless charging pad. The standard digital dash is a plus point and, overall, the digital approach is a positive step, but could be better with a few analogue touches.