Used Skoda Octavia Estate v Citroen C4 Picasso

unsure

Hi we're in the market for a used (up to 5 years, 50k - budget <£10K) family car that can fit five in reasonable comfort and also has reasonable luggage space (kids going back and forth to uni, fmaily holidays etc).

I think I've narrowed it down to Skoda Octavia Esate (1.6 diesel) or Citroen C4 Picasso (1.6 diesel semi-auto/manual). We've had three Skodas over 15 years and none have ever broken down or missed a beat so I'm tempted. But The Picasso seems to offer much greater rear seat comfort/flexibility with five on board. I test drove the C4 Picasso and also quite liked the semi automatic and the amount of cabin space. The Octavia felt as bit cramped in the back especially for rear passenger and seats seemed less comfortable. Since we'll be doing quite a few longish journeys comfort is a significant issue.

Any wise thoughts from owners or those in the know on either/both cars please?

Hintza

Have you read WhatCar user reviews?

SailorSam

I'd go for theSkoda, but for no special reason.

Herzlos

It sounds like you prefer the Citroen, so get that one. The Skoda would probably prove more reliable though.

wba31

Hintza wrote: »

Have you read WhatCar user reviews?

Honest John is worth a read too...

Zero_Gravitas

Rather than an Octavia, have you considered the Superb estate? Very comfortable and with more rear leg romm than just about anything else.

Best Regards,

ZG

albionrovers

Seat Exeo estate is nice, but quite rare

wba31

albionrovers wrote: »

Seat Exeo estate is nice, but quite rare

Had one as a hire car once. Really nice car, drives really nice. But I am 6"2 and there was no room in the back for someone to sit behind me... OP doesnt mention how big the kids are, but compared to what has been previously mentioned, the Exeo seems too small in my mind...

forgotmyname

If someone else was paying i would choose the C4. But with my own money the Skoda every day..

5 years old and semi auto just makes my wallet shudder with fear.

4743hudsonj

As above really. The C4 may be more comfortable (it is what the French do well in cars) but the gearbox could cause some worrying repair bills.

The 1.6cr engine is the same as i have in my skoda and it is excellent. Mine is on 110k and its still strong. I did have to get the EGR valve done on extended warranty at 105k but this is to be expected at my mileage on any diesel and shouldn't bother you if your looking at cars with half that.

Servicing is very laid back. The timing belt doesn't need doing until about 115k! its pretty much your basic servicing which depending on if the car is QG0/1/2 scheduled could be as little as the set skoda price of £120 ever year and a half, probably half that elsewhere

clayton16749

I'd go for the Skoda. No offence to anyone who owns one, but Citroen's just don't inspire me. I believe Skoda reliability is usually very good - but it sounds like you already know all about that.