Skoda Octavia Taxi Review
20/05/2010
Smart taxi drivers who know a good deal when they see it would be well advised to consider the Skoda Octavia.
Skoda is part of the VW family and the Octavia owes much of its basic design to the Passat. Its combination of build quality, performance, handling and low running costs make the Octavia a canny choice for any cab driver.
Driveability
When you’re spending long hours behind the wheel of your taxi a good driving position and great seat support are crucial – happily, the Octavia scores highly in both areas.
Controls and steering are all well-weighted and manual models have a light and accurate gearshift. Diesel models are available with a Direct Shift Gearbox for a choice of automatic or manual gear changes.
Interior Charm
Overall, the interior in the Octavia is roomy, robust and well designed. Rear passengers have plenty of space, which is always a blessing when six foot plus customers jump in the back.
Both hatchback and estate variants have vast boots so accommodating taxi passengers weighed down with luggage should be a breeze.
The Octavia also provides the optimum in comfort, thanks to a supple ride. Plus, superb handling and plenty of grip mean the Octavia always remains composed, with good body control in corners.
All diesel engines in the range provide plenty of punch from low revs, which means heavy taxi fares won’t impact on your cab's performance.
Economy
As far as running costs are concerned, with Octavia, you won’t be forever forking out. There are long service intervals and the cab comes with a special two year unlimited mileage taxi warranty. Fuel consumption is also first rate meaning you’ll get more out of one tank of fuel than with some of its rivals.
Reliability
There's an attractive solidity about the Octavia. It’s well proportioned with a clean design. Quality wise, the Octavia is as tough as old boots - something that matters a lot in the taxi business. The sense of sturdiness isn't an illusion as the panel gaps are tight and doors shut with a reassuring thud.
Little wonder that Octavia continues to prove popular amongst the UK’s hard working taxi trade.
For more on our exclusive Skoda taxi offer call now on 0800 916 3021 or email info@cabdirect.com.
