FIVE REASONS TO BUY...

...THE NEW SKODA OCTAVIA

1 Basically, the Octavia is the same as the VW Golf and Audi A3 underneath, but bigger, cheaper and offers a more functional cabin.

2 New models enjoy the benefits of a recent mid-term revision, which include a rather stylish new front-end, the latest onboard tech and extra safety features.

3 The Octavia range includes hatchback and estate variants; a wide choice of petrol and diesel engines; manual or DSG gearboxes; front-wheel drive or 4x4, and seven different trim levels.

4 A blind spot detection and rear traffic alert system become standard equipment, as does a pedestrian protection feature and smartphone Bluetooth connectivity.

5 On the road prices range from £17,055 to £30,085