The Toyota Corolla and Skoda Octavia dominate the Polish new car market. In the first half of 2026, Poles bought approximately 12,000 and 11,000 units of these models respectively. However, a closer look at the Czech hatchback reveals one version that stands out as the optimal choice: the 1.5 eTSI with 150 horsepower.
The Polish automotive magazine „Auto Świat” took a closer look at the Octavia lineup to determine which variant offers the best value. According to their analysis, the sweet spot is the 1.5 eTSI mild-hybrid engine paired with an automatic transmission. This version accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds while consuming just 4.9 to 5.3 litres of petrol per 100 kilometres.
For comparison, the entry-level Octavia with a 1.5 TSI engine producing 115 hp and a manual gearbox costs around 101,000 PLN. It reaches 100 km/h in 10.4 seconds and uses 5.2–5.7 l/100 km. At the opposite end of the spectrum, the top-spec 2.0 TSI with 204 hp and an automatic gearbox starts at over 151,000 PLN.
The best balance of power and efficiency
The 150-horsepower eTSI version sits in the middle of the price range, costing between 118,000 and 133,000 PLN depending on the trim level. „It already has an automatic gearbox, accelerates to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, and average fuel consumption ranges from 4.9 to 5.3 l/100 km. This is the optimal choice for the Octavia. It will be pleasantly dynamic and surprisingly economical,” – wrote the magazine „Auto Świat”.
Such a combination makes the car suitable for both city driving and longer highway trips. The mild-hybrid system also helps lower emissions and provides a smoother start-stop operation, which matters for drivers who spend a lot of time in traffic.
Price spectrum and alternatives
For buyers on a tighter budget, the base Octavia with 115 hp remains a viable option. „It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.4 seconds, and the average fuel consumption ranges from 5.2 to 5.7 l/100 km. For many drivers, such performance will be perfectly sufficient,” – added the magazine.
The cheapest variant with basic equipment starts at 101,000 PLN. The most expensive combination of the 115-hp engine with a high trim level reaches about 120,000 PLN. Meanwhile, the top-of-the-line Octavia with a 204-hp engine and all available options exceeds 151,000 PLN, making it a choice for those who prioritise power over economy.
The sales figures confirm the Octavia’s strong position. In the first half of 2026, it was the second most popular new car in Poland, only behind the Toyota Corolla. The third-placed Kia Sportage failed to cross 8,000 registrations, highlighting the dominance of these two models.
Źródło: WNP.PL (wnp.pl/przemysl/wybrali-najlepsza-skode-octavie-to-nie-ta-najdrozsza,1082178.html), Fot. Shutterstock/Natalie Hora
