Faults:

Cambelt, water-pump, turbo, shocks and springs.

Brakes done at last service.

No major issues.

General Comments:

These Octavia's are popular as a taxi, and also make sense as a used private purchase.

I have had mine two years with no major problems. The Turbo was replaced before I bought the car, an expensive and unfortunately common failure on these engines. Other than that the 1.6 diesel is as solid as they come. Change the cambelt and oil as required and you should have no major concerns.

Not a fast car, but does a genuine 60 + MPG.

Comfortable in SE trim, seats are nice and there is plenty of equipment. Refinement leaves a bit to be desired - too much engine and road/wind noise, but not totally unbearable.

Not bad to drive, quite relaxing on motorways.

Cheap to buy and run, recommended.

Faults:

Seems to go through brakes and suspension parts a little quicker than I'd like, but basically wear and tear expected of the mileage. I blame the poor condition of UK roads (anyone else think there are a lot more potholes these days?!?) I drive carefully and service it on time, no other major issues with the car in my ownership. I bought it form a reputable dealer with full history and the car appears to be well looked after.

General Comments:

A petrol Octavia - comparatively rare as almost all of these cars are diesel. The petrol version is fun to drive, fast and is a lot quieter, plus you can still expect close to around 50 mpg if you take it easy. The 1.4 petrol is definitely worth checking out, however I'd advise against the smaller 1.2 and 1.0 units - I test drove those and they felt under-powered.

Go for an SE model and above - S spec cars are a bit basic, but all have front electric windows and air con as standard. My car has nice alloy wheels and is a nice beige color. Buying used I did not have a choice color wise, but at-least it isn't grey or silver which 80% of cars in the UK seem to be! I did see a bright red VRS Octavia the other day and it really stood out - this car is not much to look at, but the right color and wheels make a huge difference on any model.

The car isn't anything special to drive but it does the job. Handles OK so long as you are not cornering like a mad man, the ride is a little firm but you get used to it. Seats support you well and the dash is nicely laid out.

You'll find it hard to find a better all round car, as the reviews on here and elsewhere will show you, and also if you look around in the UK this cars popularity as a taxi is also a good testament. Highly recommended if all you want is a practical, reliable, no nonsense car.