TOW CAR TEST

ESTATE 2.0 TDI 150PS SE L DSG

Upgrades, particularly on the interior, make this firm favourite an even better choice of tow car

The 150hp 2.0 TDI Estate features twin-dosing exhaust gas treatment to reduce NOx emissions

Price £28,890 Kerbweight 1473-1675kg

Based on the same underpinnings as the outgoing model, but the latest Octavia is longer and wider 

Photography:David Motton

*includes wing mirrors

What’s new?

Škoda has updated the Octavia, offering new looks, more space and an improved infotainment system. For the first time, the vehicle is now available with hybrid drivetrains. Conventional petrol and diesel models still have their place, however, and every powertrain now meets the RDE2 emissions standard.

Although it is still based on the same underpinnings as the outgoing model, the latest Octavia is now longer and wider than before. The boot – already class-leading in size – is even bigger, reinforcing the Octavia’s standing as one of the most practical family cars that you can buy.

We’re testing the 150hp 2.0 TDI Estate, which features a new twin-dosing exhaust gas treatment to reduce NOx emissions.

What are we looking for? 

Škoda’s Octavia has long been one of our favourite lightweight tow cars. But does the new generation live up to the high standard set by its predecessor?

Towing ability 

The carmaker now quotes a wide range of kerbweights for this version of the Octavia, starting at 1473kg and rising to 1675kg for an example with every conceivable extra.

Working from the lower kerbweight gives an 85% match figure of 1252kg. That’s well within the 1600kg towing limit, and makes the Octavia a sensible match for vans such as the Sprite Alpine 2 or Bailey Discovery D4-4.

C Interior has soft-touch materials, faux suede on the dash, and attractive switchgear  D Go for SE L spec and there’s a 10.25-inch digital display in place of dials, flanked by a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen