Skoda Octavia RS 2008 Review

Launched: Skoda Octavia RS

News of Skoda's return to Australia may have raised a few eyebrows (as well as the question of whether it was ever really here in the first place), but at least the brand's local strategy should now be quite clear.

The two-model (for now) range opens with the cool, useful, slightly quirky Roomster (more here). Then it steps to Octavia (more here), here in high-performance RS wagon guise.

Octavia is built on the Golf platform (like Jetta, and just about everything else in the automotive universe), and here in RS spec, is powered by the excellent Golf GTI drivetrain. You know how much we like the GTI, so a larger, (slightly) cheaper derivation, bringing the extra usefulness of a wagon body, must surely be a walk-up start to high-fives and backslaps, yes?

Largely. There's little not to like about the Octavia RS if you're value focused and seek metal for your money. Its (admittedly narrow) price advantage relative to inherently similar models in the VW Group comes from delivering what driving enthusiasts really require - a robust, willing drivetrain and well-sorted chassis - and cutting back on what you can live without; stuff like fancy metal ventilation controls, damping on the grab handles, and status-anxiety issues.

Okay, you can see that money has been saved with more than just cheap Czech labour. The interior doesn't scream poverty pack, but it is well short of Golf standards. However, intelligent design touches, ample equipment and a strong sense of build quality goes a long way to offsetting perceived shortfalls.

So does it drive much like Golf GTI with wagon body? Well, sort of, but not exactly - the drivetrain is a little grainier, a fraction more audible, due, I suspect, to less sound insulation. The exhaust note, also, is a bit less engaging than GTI, but this is still a really fine engine and gearbox. The torque delivery is like that ideal tradie (who possibly doesn't exist), arriving ready, willing and early. Combined with the firm, purposeful shift action of the six-speed manual, careful calibration of throttle and clutch, it all comes together with a nice sense of cohesion.

The chassis set-up is a little more compliant than the GTI; a bit less sniffer-dog in carving up tight back roads. But it retains fine body control and draws ample grip from the 18-inch Michelin rubber. The work of the tyres and suspension from under the generous load area is audible but not offensive. More importantly, with seats folded, it will swallow a bicycle without need for a wheel removal.

I'm happy to admit I was won over by the honest, upbeat character of the Octavia in this spec. Look for a comparable sports wagon offering this level of space, pace and equipment, and you'll agree it's found a very worthy niche.

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