At a glance

Skoda Octavia Style Base price: $48,990

Powertrain and economy: 1.4-litre turbo-petrol four, 110kW/250Nm, 8-speed automatic, FWD, combined economy 5.7L/100km, CO2 131g/km. (Source: Rightcar)

Vital statistics: 4689mm long, 1994mm wide, 1468mm high, 2686mm wheelbase, luggage capacity 640 litres, 17-inch alloy wheels.

We like: The strong and frugal engine. Well-equipped for the price. Brilliantly comfortable and so easy to live with.

We don’t like: A bit too conservative looking. Bigger wheels suit it better.