When does the new Skoda Octavia arrive?
Can you tell me when the updated 2017 Skoda Octavia will be offered for sale in Ireland?
Gerry Cummins (Limerick)Jan 2017 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Gerry,
The new-look Skoda Octavia is now in Irish showrooms.
Which car for space behind the driver?
I am looking for a car that has enough room for a car seat behind the driver's side even when the driver seat is pushed way back. My partner is very tall and in our Peugeot 407 we cannot fit a second baby seat.
Please help.
Natasha Doran (Arklow)Jan 2017 Filed under: child or baby seats
Expert answer
Hi Natasha,
Try a Skoda Superb - they have tonnes of rear space, which should give plenty of room even with the driver's seat shoved right back. Big boot too, plus they're reliable and nice to drive.
What mpg will the Skoda Octavia 1.0 TSI do?
What are the actual miles per gallon of the Skoda Octavia 1.0-litre?
Georgette D'Arcy (Arklow)Expert answer
Hi Georgette,
I assume you are referring to the economy we got when we drove the Octavia in this review? We averaged 6.5 litres/100km - or 43.4mpg. To put that into context, we did very little motorway driving, mostly around town and into the mountains around Dublin. Not bad considering.
When to change my Skoda Rapid's timing belt?
Hi, I have a Skoda Rapid diesel 1.6 TDI: when should change this car's timing belt and water pump? Current mileage is 70000 on the clock.
Nasser Sharif (Glasgow )Dec 2016 Filed under: servicing
Expert answer
Hi Nasser,
The timing belt should be changed every 240,000km or every four years, whichever is sooner.
Next-gen Nissan X-Trail or Skoda Kodiaq?
Hi guys,
Regarding the Nissan X-Trail and its new 2.0-litre diesel engine, will it be introduced into the current X-Trail series or are we going to see the updated X-Trail (as per US/Austrailia) hit Ireland in 2017 with an updated engine range? Really appreciate any comment you have, as I'm looking at something in the Skoda Kodiaq/X-Trail range.
Colin H (Kildare)Dec 2016 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Colin,
We’ve checked with Nissan on this and have been told that the 2.0-litre diesel X-Trail will be coming here, but not until October 2017. With that much of a time gap, we’d expect the X-Trail to have had its mid-life facelift by then, as you suggest, and it will more than likely follow the Australian and US update pretty closely in terms of styling and interior upgrades. As for how it will compare to the new Skoda Kodiaq, well – that sounds like a twin test to us...
Ford Mondeo, Skoda Superb or Kia Optima?
Hi,
Looking to change car for 2017. Looking at Ford Mondeo Titanium+ five-door 1.5 TDCi diesel, a Skoda Superb +Business Pack 1.6 TDI or a Kia Optima SW (estate) EX 1.7D. I would like something very comfortable and practical (hence the Kia estate, which, to my eyes, does not look like a hearse! - but no other estates need apply), but also something that is very reliable - so something with a long warranty that I don't end up using because reliability issues is not what I'm looking for.
I do 25,000km per year, all 'extra urban' and I'm not a badge snob. Currently drive a Honda CR-V, but would like to go back to a D-segment car again. All the above are well specified as such - of the three what would be your opinion? Great web site!
Many thanks,
John
John Fleming (Killarney)Nov 2016 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi John,
I think given the criteria you’ve given us it has to be the Kia. It’s good looking and nice to drive, roomy, comfy and well equipped and above all it has the longest warranty by far. The Ford is great looking and good to drive but the quality isn’t as good as it was on the last Mondeo and while we love the Skoda Superb, it sounds like the Kia would suit you better.
Here are our reviews to help you decide:
Should I wait for the updated Skoda Octavia?
I was planning on buying a new Octavia in Feb and I've just seen the new one. Can get a deal on the old one now or is the new one worth waiting for?
Jim Reagan (Mullingar)Nov 2016 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Jim,
The new one will be worth waiting for from the point of view of an improved interior and some new options and equipment, but you’re quite right – the outgoing model will be seeing some sharp deals as dealers look to clear stock, so, as there are very few major mechanical changes, it’d be a good idea to shop around for a really good price on the current model. Some links to inform you further:
Have you pricing for the Skoda Kodiaq yet?
When will the prices and trim specifications be announced for the new Skoda Kodiaq?
Colin H (Kildare)Nov 2016 Filed under: pricing
Expert answer
Hi Colin,
Very shortly. We'd expect to see a full price list and standard specifications within the next few weeks. We are driving it next week so keep an eye out for the full test drive on the Car Reviews page.
Any compensation coming from Volkswagen?
Hi,
Can you say what is the current position in Ireland in regard to the reparation and/or compensation for Volkswagen brand vehicles (mine is a Skoda Superb 1.6 TDI Greenline)?
Many thanks,
Philip
Philip Donegan (Ballina)Nov 2016 Filed under: recall
Expert answer
Hi Philip,
Volkswagen and its associated brands are currently working their way through the lists of cars to be recalled and modified to enable them to reach the required standards for emissions at all times, and not just on the official test, as was revealed by the ‘Dieselgate’ scandal. The original plan was to have all cars recalled and modified by the end of this year, but that schedule has slipped significantly.
If your car is one of those due for work, you will get a letter in the post in due course advising you to book an appointment at your nearest Skoda dealer.
As for compensation? Unlike American Volkswagen owners, European owners as yet are not being offered any, primarily because the laws are rather different on this side of the Atlantic, but owners (via the courts), national governments and the EU are all pressing Volkswagen on the issue of compensation payments so there may yet be something in the offing.
Peugeot 508 RXH, Mondeo or Superb estate?
I'm due to change my car in 2017. Options I'm considering are Peugeot 508 RXH, Ford Mondeo Vignale and Skoda Superb Sportline Estate. What would you recommend?
Regards
Troy
Troy Quaine (Cirk)Nov 2016 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Troy,
The 508 RXH is a really likeable car, with tremendous comfort and very good quality. It’s a bit pricey, but a surprisingly good choice. We would avoid the Mondeo Vignale with all our might – the depreciation on a Ford that costs that much is going to be catastrophic so instead just go for a well-equipped Mondeo Titanium or Titanium Plus. The best of the three is the Skoda, though. It’s the biggest inside and will have the best resale value.
Here are some of our reviews to help you decide: