2022 Wheels Car of the Year contender: Skoda Octavia wagon

When our Skoda wagon turned up in a nondescript silver exterior colour with accessory roof racks fitted, I couldn’t help but feel that we had borrowed a VW employee’s company car for the week. I do hope they weren’t planning a trip to IKEA that weekend. But once you look more closely at the design, you really start to appreciate the technology and the quality of the execution.

The Octavia wagon is one of very few alternatives to the ubiquitous mid-sized SUV. Whilst it doesn’t display the robust image of an SUV, it remains a stylish offering, in a classic way.

Essentially a different version of the sister Golf variant, Skoda does a good job of consolidating its own design language. As Dan noted, “Octavia nicely redresses the difference between VW and Skoda and puts some distance between them.”

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One of the main benefits of a wagon bodystyle over an SUV is the luggage compartment. The low-slung proportions and additional length provide for a longer cargo space, particularly when the rear seats are being used. The Skoda delivers 640 litres with rear seats up and 1700 litres when fully folded; however, it was disappointing that the seats don’t fold perfectly flat.

Other nice touches included carry hooks and reversible carpet mat. Indeed, there were a few little surprises which pleased the judges. “I’ll never get bored discovering Skoda Easter eggs, such as the picnic rug in the boot or the umbrella in the door,’’ quipped Jez.

“Like Golf, a champion of all-round goodness” – Curt Dupriez

The cabin design echoes the external persona with a pared-back, sleek but modern feel. Dual screens provide all the information, with a nice visual interface, but not everyone will appreciate the lack of tactile controls. Like the Golf, most functions require a few swipes at the screen menu.

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The electronic gear selector is nicely styled and adds a touch of jewellery to the otherwise austere console. Rear-seat accommodation is good for this size car and in the back of the front seats there are some clever electronic device holders.

Overall, the cabin space is all nicely executed and well built, but buyers who are accustomed to more vibrant Japanese or Korean interiors may find it a bit austere and clinical.

However, the more discerning driver will find the real difference on the tarmac. This is where the Skoda shines with rewarding road manners beyond the image of a dowdy wagon. Although powered by a 1.4-litre turbo engine delivering a modest 110kW and 250Nm, the real joy is how it combines sweetly with the dynamics.

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All judges agreed that it was easy to forget that we were driving a wagon. Under that utilitarian body lies a rewarding driving experience, and that is precisely the hidden charm of this little gem.

I don’t mind confessing that I was a wagon nerd for many years as I believe the bodystyle makes a lot of functional sense. For those buyers looking for a different kind of versatility, the Octavia is a great package and would surely put a contented smile on its owner’s face.

The Skoda was a favourite with all of the judges, delivering a fit-for-purpose solution with engaging dynamics: “A peach of a car,” said Dylan. But whilst it does everything well, there was no major breakthrough to elevate it further. Alex summarised it: “Nails function, but no real X-factor.”