Used test – efficient estates: Ford Focus vs Skoda Octavia
If you're in need of a bit more space but don't want to spend a fortune on fuel, these two have got you covered...
Our Verdict
If you’re simply after the most space possible for the least money, head for the Octavia. Its cavernous boot and spacious seating make it the most practical car of this pair, while a number of neat touches spread around the interior make it even more family-friendly. Its dashboard is the most sensibly laid out, too, while its no-nonsense handling should help you to keep control even in the slipperiest of conditions.
However, the Focus is more enjoyable and more sophisticated, both to drive and to sit in. Granted, its lack of space is a big downside, but if you don’t need to carry huge loads all that frequently, you’ll prefer its flush boot lip, and when you do have to put the seats down, you’ll appreciate the flat boot floor.
The rest of the time, you’ll be busy enjoying the involving way the Focus drives, not to mention the composure of its ride over even the roughest surfaces. And while you might not be able to find your way around its interior quite so easily, it’ll at least feel higher-quality and look more interesting.
In short, the Octavia is the most spacious estate of these two. But if you can live with carrying around a little less, you’ll enjoy owning and driving the Focus more.
Read our review of the latest Skoda Octavia Estate
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Also consider:
For Fun and comfortable; classy; practical boot
Against Not the biggest estate; engine feels flat; fussy interior
Verdict The Focus feels more polished, and is worth the small premium it costs
Rated 4 out of 5
Read the full used Ford Focus review
Find a used Ford Focus for sale in the What Car? Classifieds
2nd – Skoda Octavia Estate
For Huge space; perky engine; sensational value
Against Looks plainer than the Focus; cheap plastics; awkward load lips
Verdict It’s not as much fun as the Focus, but the Octavia’s still a great car at a fantastic price
Rated 4 out of 5
Read the full used Skoda Octavia review
Find a used Skoda Octavia for sale in the What Car? Classifieds
Specifications: Ford Focus Estate 1.6 TDCi 115 Zetec
Engine size 1.6-litre petrol/diesel
List price when new £19,595
Price today £6500
Power 114bhp
Torque 199lb ft
0-60mph 12.2sec
Top speed 114mph
Fuel economy 67.3mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 109g/km
Specifications: Skoda Octavia Estate 1.6 TDI CR Greenline II
Engine size 1.6-litre petrol/diesel
List price when new £19,205
Price today £6500
Power 104bhp
Torque 184lb ft
0-60mph 11.8sec
Top speed 121mph
Fuel economy 67.3mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 109g/km
price today is for a 2011 model with average mileage and full service history, correct at time of writing
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