2001 Skoda Octavia RS review from UK and Ireland

So far nothing, but only had it for under 2 months. Some wear on driver seat, but it was an ex-demonstrator.

After my last car, I wanted something which was quick, comfortable and had plenty of extras on it, so after looking at several cars I eventually found a black Octavia RS which had everything I was after.

Performance is excellent and sprints to 60 in under 8 seconds using the same 180bhp lump found in the Audi TT. I've had some fun in this car at traffic lights and on the motorway.

The spec is excellent with 17" alloys, climate, leather, ABS , traction control, power steering, trip computer and electric windows/mirrors all standard. The boots also huge. Scorpion alarm was an optional extra, but I got it fitted as part of the deal :-)

Here's another good thing to note about this car - it's fuel consumption. I have managed to hit 46 MPG on a 400 mile round trip to Birmingham. That's excellent for a performance car. Although if you have a heavy right foot it will start to drink the juice, but it's worth it for the fun factor you get.

Overall handling of the car could be a bit better as the steering is not that responsive, but there's little to no body roll.

The final positive feature of this car is it's price. There's not many cars that give you so much for such little outlay. The only big price you pay with this car is the insurance as it's a group 16 - ouch!.

If your after a reliable, well built and seriously quick car then look no further. So it's a Skoda. Do you think I care?