Elegance 1.8 TSI DSG 5dr Estate

Great car but beware of the DSG problems!

At the time of this review I’ve had the car for 2 ½ years of low mileage driving – approx 13,000. In most respects this is an excellent car. The good points:

• The 1.8 TSI engine has plenty of power and flexibility giving very good acceleration and motorway cruising. The car is quiet apart from slightly too much road noise from the tyres.

• Interior space is very good for a medium size car and is better than some bigger cars. It’s very comfortable for passengers and has an enormous boot.

• Elegance spec provides a lot more for your money than more expensive similar Audi, BMW, Mercedes models – e.g. climate, rain sensitive wipers, touch screen radio etc

• Full size alloy spare wheel as an option. (Though only space savers available as an option with larger wheels)

• The build quality is excellent with no rattles.

• This feels like a much more expensive car than it is (don’t look at the badge). I previously had a Honda Accord Exec Tourer auto and prefer the drive of the Skoda.

HOWEVER….the negative points:

• I had major problems with the DSG gearbox after only 11,000 miles. Juddering when pulling away in first gear and when changing from first to second. This was repaired under warranty but would have cost approx £1,000 if out of warranty. DSG problems are fairly common so beware

• The front tyres only lasted approx 12,000 of very easy driving. However, the new tyres have reduced the tyre noise).


In summary if you have a manual, or are lucky with a DSG, this is an excellent car.

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