Selling practical cars in significant volumes at reasonable prices is what Skoda does best. But can the new Octavia wagon tow? 

As an all-round, do-it-all family car, the new Octavia wagon/estate is difficult to fault. Skoda has worked exceptionally hard to ensure the newcomer feels more premium and sophisticated than ever – and it shows. The cabin is the best Skoda has ever made and, as you’d expect from an Octavia, it’s one of the most practical cars in its class.

A pleasing richness to the 2020 4th generation Skoda Octavia’s design hints at greater maturity than with any of its predecessors. Traditional touches such as a bold chrome grille, the angular headlights, heavily contoured bonnet, deeply etched flanks and more heavily structured rear end are all carried, but in a reinterpreted form with greater cohesiveness. Overall, it is claimed to be up to 14 per cent more aerodynamically efficient than its predecessor.

The new Skoda also uses the same 2686mm wheelbase of the car it replaces. But, in a move aimed at providing greater interior accommodation and more load-carrying space, the estate has grown moderately. Length is up by 22mm to 4689mm, width is extended by 15mm to 1829mm, and height has risen by 3mm to 1468mm.

The new model has a far more elegant and premium look to it. And it’s the same story inside, where you’ll find a clean, sophisticated cabin that could genuinely belong to an Audi. It’s the best interior we’ve ever seen from Skoda.

The Octavia has taken a clear step upmarket, and in doing so exposed itself to a whole new group of potential customers who seek premium brand values, equipment and technology.

Skoda hasn’t forgotten why buyers have traditionally flocked to the Octavia Estate: its outstanding everyday usability. At 640L, the boot is 30L larger than before. Allow the electronic mechanism to open the tailgate and the flat cargo floor appears commodious, even before you lower the rear seats by pulling the handles at the rear - rising to 1,700 litres with the rear bench folded. If you ever need even more room consider towing with your Skoda and fit a Octavia towbar.

Can the new Octavia tow? The more powerful versions have a maximum towing weight of 1,500kg to 1,800kg, depending on your exact specifications.

Maybe the new Octavia is simply too clever - you decide.  If you’re after great value, low running costs, combined with heaps of practicality and a comfortable ride, then the new Octavia wagon has all the bases covered.

Thinking of towing or just taking your bikes along on the next weekend away?  Why not fit a discreet Euro style towbar - full range of 4th generation Octavia wagon towbars now available.