Following the debut of the Golf V, it was only natural that the entire lineup of models built on the same platform would be updated. The Skoda Octavia, produced in its second generation, also came under scrutiny.
2005 Skoda Octavia 1.6 MPI
© Photo: Igor Kuznetsov, 5 Koleso
Since the fifth-generation Golf was based on an entirely new platform, the Octavia with the factory index A5 simply had to take a step forward compared to its predecessor. And that's exactly what happened. We have a truly new car in front of us, not just a restyling of the old one. This applies not only to the exterior but also to the dimensions. The car has become larger, albeit not drastically. The length has increased exactly as much as the wheelbase has grown — by 66 mm. True, the difference in size can only be discerned when comparing figures, but the fact that the design has become noticeably more expressive is visible to the naked eye.
The V-shaped hood plays the main role in the appearance. This is not just a stamping, but a truly voluminous shape. Opening it, you notice that the headlights are integrated into the front fenders, not covered by the edge of the hood as is usually the case. Logically, the redesign of the front end entailed a complete update of the optics and bumper.
In profile, the car has also been transformed. The stamping running from the front fender to the rear has become more distinct. And the stylish crease in the lower part of the body, as if from the new A6, adds dynamism to the appearance. The turn signal repeaters have moved from the fenders to the exterior mirrors, which have also changed shape. The rear is in the same style: enlarged taillights are a continuation of the fenders, and the trunk lid has become stricter and visually divided into two parts.
2005 Skoda Octavia 1.6 MPI
© Photo: Igor Kuznetsov, 5 Koleso
The interior has become noticeably more interesting and richer. We deliberately took a car in the base trim, without any frills, but even it leaves a very pleasant impression. The Octavia's cabin wins you over with the thoughtfulness of every little detail and the solidity of assembly. However, to appreciate it fully, you just need to get inside. Although why be surprised: Skoda has long been part of the Volkswagen Group, and that explains a lot.
The increased length of the car has benefited ergonomics. The driver's seat has a greater range of longitudinal adjustment, and rear passengers no longer complain about a lack of legroom. The trunk has also grown: the useful volume has increased from 530 to 560 liters.
2005 Skoda Octavia 1.6 MPI
© Photo: Igor Kuznetsov, 5 Koleso
The modified platform is not only a different wheelbase but also a retuned suspension. At the rear, there is now a fully independent design, thanks to which the ride has become noticeably more comfortable, and most importantly, the car has become much more understandable for the driver: both informativeness and handling have improved.
As for engines, dealers currently offer versions with a 1.6-liter petrol unit, as well as two turbodiesels with volumes of 1.9 and 2.0 liters. As already mentioned, we got the base car with a 102-horsepower petrol engine and a 5-speed manual. Even such a modest engine can provide quite acceptable dynamics for such a serious car. It is quite torquey, allowing you to feel confident in city traffic. The only thing that spoils the picture is that on the highway, the engine reminds you of itself already at 110 km/h: at that speed, its voice becomes clearly audible. It's a pity, because other noises barely penetrate the cabin — excellent sound insulation and aerodynamics have an effect. You could drown out the engine with music, but the base version has no audio system. However, there are two airbags and ABS. Admit it, not much, but the price of the base car is also low — $18,700. The same Golf V in the base trim will cost more.
Technical characteristics of Skoda Octavia 1.6 MPI
Body — unibody, all-metal
Number of seats — 5
Curb weight, kg — 1255
Gross weight, kg — 1915
Dimensions (length/width/height), mm — 4572/1769/1462
Wheelbase, mm — 2578
Trunk volume, l — 560–1350
Maximum speed, km/h — 190
Acceleration time to 100 km/h, s — 12.3
Fuel consumption, l/100 km:
- city cycle — 9.8
- highway — 5.7
- combined — 7.2
Engine:
- type — R4
- displacement, cm3 — 1595
- power, hp at rpm — 102/5600
- torque, Nm at rpm — 148/3800
Transmission — manual, 5-speed
Tire size — 195/65R15
Suspension — independent
Brakes:
- front — disc, ventilated
- rear — disc
Steering — with electromechanical power steering
Price, $ — 18,700
© 5 Koleso