1999 Skoda Octavia GLX review from UK and Ireland

Heated rear screen element damaged on delivery. Replaced by dealer.

Ignition lock sometimes failed to engage the immobiliser when removing the key. All locks replaced by dealer.

Slight water leak (I hadn't noticed it, the dealer picked it up during the 40,000 mile service and replaced the water pump under warranty.

Wipers started behaving erratically - going very slowly or occasionally stopping completely. Entire mechanism (linkage, motor etc) replaced by dealer under warranty.

The dealer from whom I bought the car was an absolute disgrace and soon ceased to be a Skoda dealer - thank goodness. The dealer I then went to for servicing has been exemplary. Well done Riding & Co., Preston!

The car itself is almost faultless. The fuel economy is incredible. If I drive carefully, I can get just over 80mpg (yes, I did say EIGHTY!) on my daily journey to work (just under 30 miles, mostly motorway with a bit of town centre crawling at each end)

The seats are comfortable even on long journeys and the adjustable steering wheel means that it's easy to achieve a good driving position.

The boot is enormous - maybe a little too big. Perhaps my only real criticism is a lack of rear leg room. If the boot space had been reduced by a few inches, it would have made for a much more comfortable journey for rear-seat passengers.