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Skoda Octavia and Kia Seed comparison tests. Skoda Octavia against competitors from Audi and Kia: a ring for three. Description of Skoda Octavia

Choosing a car today is not an easy task, because there are a lot of offers, especially in the B-segment. Today we will compare two popular models – Kia Ceed and Skoda Octavia. They have been breaking all sales records in our country for a long time.

We'll go over the design, interior, as well as technical specifications to ensure that the comparison review answers all your questions. To make the “fight” fair, we took the 2013 model year Kia Sid and the third generation Octavia, which entered the Russian market in the same year. We will compare both the first and second options in a hatchback body.

Appearance

Both cars look quite simple, but of high quality. The Skoda model has long established itself as a universal and simple car that is suitable for any driver. The same can be said about the Korean Sid. The cars are quite difficult to distinguish from photographs. Therefore, it would be irrational to choose based on external features. The only thing that is difficult to compare in the photo is the dimensions.

Dimensions of Kia Sid hatchback:

Length – 4310 mm;
Width – 1780 mm;
Height – 1470 mm;
Wheelbase – 2650 mm;
Ground clearance – 140 mm;
Gross weight – 1870 kg;
Luggage compartment - 380 l.

Now let's study the dimensions of the Skoda Octavia:

Length – 4659 mm;
Width – 1814 mm;
Height – 1461 mm;
Ground clearance – 155 mm;
Gross weight – 1795 kg;
Luggage compartment - 568/1558 l.

Based on these dimensions, we can say that the Skoda Octavia outperforms the Sid in terms of dimensions. Take the ground clearance: 155 mm versus 140 mm. This also applies to general sizes. The larger the body, the more free space inside the car. In this regard, Octavia can be considered a winner.

Salon comparison

The Skoda Octavia wins here too. And there are plenty of reasons for this: more electronics, better finishing and, of course, free space for both the driver and his companions. The only thing where the Kia Sid is stronger is in design. The interior of the Korean car Sid really looks better, as Russian motorists also say.

If we talk about safety, then cars are equal in this path. Both Octavia and Ceed have airbags for the driver and front passenger, ABS and disc brakes on all wheels as standard.

Although there is less space in the back row in the Sid than in the Skoda, the driver's seats are practically no different. Only height adjustment is provided for the seats. This also applies to the electric steering wheel.

Vehicle Specifications

It’s worth starting with Skoda, as it received more power plants. In Russia, three gasoline engines and one diesel engine are available, which has a volume of 2 liters and its power is 144 horsepower. For the diesel engine, the company has prepared the only gearbox option - the DSG6 robot. For other engines, manual and automatic are available.

Closing the chain of gasoline units in the Skoda Octavia is a modern engine with a volume of 1.8 liters and powerful performance - 240 horses. The torque is 250 H*m. Technical and dynamic characteristics should appeal to fans of drive:

The Octavia reaches the first hundred in 7.4 seconds. There is no catch here, since there are already reviews of similar tests;
The permissible speed limit has also been increased for the flagship – 233 km/h;
Fuel consumption has also increased: Octavia consumes only 6.4 in mixed mode. In the city, consumption is unlikely to exceed 8 liters.

As for the Sid, it is equipped only with gasoline engines. This is an engine with a volume of 1.4 for 100 horses and 1.6 for 135. In 2013, restyling added a modernized power plant with a volume of 1.6 liters, which produces 204 power. The engine only works with a 6-speed manual transmission. For other versions, six-speed automatic transmissions are also available.

For example, you can look at the last option for LED for 204 horses:

The speed limit is 230 km/h;
Acceleration from 0 km/h to 100 km/h takes place in 7.7 seconds;
Fuel consumption is 7.6 liters of gasoline per hundred in mixed mode. In the city, appetite increases to 10.2 liters, and on the highway it drops to 6.2.

As can be seen from the technical characteristics, in terms of dynamics, top-end, mid-range and basic power plants are practically the same. But here, too, Octavia has a serious advantage over the Sid - the presence of a diesel engine, which is much more economical than gasoline options. The rest of the hardware here is standard: a multi-link at the rear and MacPherson strut at the front. In this regard, state employees are usually no different.

Conclusion

It would seem that Octavia wins in all respects, so why hasn’t it become the absolute leader in the budget segment. The answer is simple - price. The cheapest equipment for a Czech car today will cost 800 thousand rubles. At the same time, the Kia Ceed in its basic version costs only 600 thousand.

The approach to choosing a car in the Old World is very simple. Do you give yourself a ride with your loved one and shopping bags on weekends? So it's a hatchback. Started a family and need to carry strollers and sports equipment? Station wagon.

We, as always, go our own way. Hatches are for girls, and station wagons seem to be unprestigious. And that’s why sedans and crossovers rule the roost. But here's a paradox: the leaders Kia Ceed and Skoda Octavia are not produced with a sedan body at all. And for Focus, which occupies third place in the market, the sedan is no better than the hatchback and station wagon. Recently, a new generation Ceed joined this close company.

We didn’t take the cheapest car: the 140-horsepower Ceed with a 7-speed robot holds the punch. Ford Focus and Skoda Octavia are also armed with turbo engines of 150 horsepower each, but Skoda has a seven-speed robot, and Ford has a 6-speed automatic. The price tags are also similar: approximately one and a half million rubles.

Kia Ceed

Presented at this year's Geneva Motor Show. The range includes both hatchback and station wagon. Assembly - in Kaliningrad, at the Avtotor plant.

ENGINES:
petrol:
1.4 (100 hp) - from 949,900 rub.
1.6 (128 hp) - from RUB 979,900.
1.4T (140 hp) - from RUB 1,149,900.

Skoda Octavia

The first public appearance was dated 2013. - in 2017. Liftbacks are assembled in Nizhny Novgorod, station wagons are supplied from the Czech Republic.

ENGINES:
petrol:
1.6 (110 hp) - from RUB 1,021,000.
1.4T (150 hp) - from RUB 1,106,000.
1.8T (180 hp) - from RUB 1,346,000.

Ford Focus

Debuted at the end of 2010. Production and sales of the updated car in Russia began in 2015. Assembly - in Vsevolozhsk.

ENGINES:
petrol:
1.6 (85 hp) - from 877,000 rub.
1.6 (105 hp) - from 984,000 rub.
1.6 (125 hp) - from RUB 1,040,000.
1.5T (150 hp) - from RUB 1,270,000.

Threequels

“Third” Ford Focus, “third” Skoda Octavia. Meet us! In the third generation, it not only got rid of the apostrophe in the name, but also mutated from a minivan-like car of the first generation into a lean, handsome man with a pronounced hood and a serious expression on his face - bristling with the firm intention of outperforming rivals not only in the market, but also technically.

The Octavia liftback, like a gray eminence, watches the daring “Korean” who has put on a red suit. Octavia doesn't need flashy clothes to prove anything. From generation to generation she remains herself - calm and self-confident. There were no controversial decisions - even the “four eyes” did not shake the image of an exemplary housewife. Everyone has the right to beautiful glasses!

It shone with an Aston Martin-style grille and the confident look of slanted headlights. And yet he is trying to put a good face on a bad game - he has been overtaken by the curse of the third generation platform. A facelift will not fix the problem, the problem is deeper.

To say that the engineers were too free with the volume of the cabin means to show unbridled optimism. The endless expanses of the front panel devoured a good part of the interior. If the driver is almost unharmed (the workplace is well thought out), then the passengers are safe. Those suffering from claustrophobia should not sit back.

Octavia is an antipode and a striking example of a careful attitude to space. Of course, the liftback is superior to its competitors in size, but you still wonder: where does so much space come from in the back row? And all these compartments, sockets... Skoda is like a cozy cottage in which you have lived for many years.

The Ceed is only slightly more spacious than the Focus. And although he is not able to keep up with Octavia in this regard, in the organization of space. A well-calibrated workplace, pleasant pressure on the buttons and a large display that made room for the central vents. An adult, complete interior, drawn in your own style.

Blow harder!

The "atmosphere" is dying. Nowadays it is difficult to find a car without a supercharged engine in the range. Ceed also signed up for the turbo company (previous versions of the GT do not count).

The one hundred and forty forces that the 1.4‑liter T‑GDi produces is enough for vigorous acceleration and a confident exit from ten seconds to a hundred. But it’s unlikely that anyone will regularly participate in traffic light races, but the convenience of traction control in everyday modes was a mistake. And the point here is not the engine - it just has the torque available from the very bottom, and, in theory, should cope perfectly with rough traffic.

Here's the reason. In transitional situations, he, like a newcomer to a responsible position, tries his best not to mess up and therefore fusses. Third! No, the fourth! No, it’s still the third... Wait, don’t tell me, I know the right answer! Sometimes at a speed of 50–60 km/h with the gas pedal barely pressed, the gearbox, unable to determine the desired gear, rushes around and creates the effect of misfires. And the delay in kickdown also interferes, and it is noticeable in sports mode - the whole difference comes down to the fact that the box goes down not one gear, but two.

Skoda's DSG is watching from above. Yes, boy, I am all this. Here's a master class for you: lightning-fast shifts and responsive pedal response. The sharpness of the transmission with the transition to sport mode has been honed to perfection. It’s as if a time machine is built into the mechatronic unit, knowing the driver’s aspirations in advance. This is how preselection is supposed to work! The petrol 150‑horsepower TSI only enhances the holiday atmosphere, besides, our housewife watches her figure - she is a hundred pounds lighter than the Kia. So, in the acceleration to hundreds, Skoda easily gets out of nine seconds and bypasses the “Korean”.

To remove the same one and a half hundred forces, Ford engineers needed one hundred cubic meters more displacement. And although the classic 6-speed hydromechanics did not allow saving kilograms, in acceleration the Focus is almost not behind the Skoda: 8.8 seconds to hundreds versus 8.7 seconds, according to our measurements. Ford just provokes you to constantly press on the gas - the engine’s timbre is too rich!

If in the absolute acceleration category Focus can impose a fight on Skoda, then it gives in to the convenience of traction control. It would be naive for an ordinary automatic machine to have the same lightning-fast and imperceptible gear changes as a “rapid-firing” robot. But compared to the background of the Korean robot, Ford's hydromechanics are an example of obedience. Another would be to replace the stupid side buttons on the selector with civilized paddles on the steering wheel. But let's be honest - how many owners use manual mode?

Maneuvered, maneuvered...

The Focus not only encourages you to press harder on the gas pedal, but also to look for more turns. It gets into the arc with almost no signs of front axle drift. If you overdo it with speed, the electronics will immediately come into play, but will not hinder your agility, but will delicately help you screw into the turn. Shifting in bunches is a pleasure - the most honest effort on the steering wheel coupled with sharp reactions. What else do you need from a lean hatchback with a small stern? Tires with the best grip! The original 16‑inch Michelin Energy ones lose touch with reality a little early, slightly blurring the impression of the excellent chassis.

Sid has no problems with traction - he is also shod in Michelin, but these are Primacy tires, which grip the road perfectly. The effort on the steering wheel, the speed and accuracy of reactions - everything is with him. Still, the chassis isn't as refined as the Focus's. No, Kia is also great at writing any radius, and you can’t deny it stability on a straight line. But at the edge of tire grip in a fast turn, you feel a slight mismatch between the front and rear suspensions.

Skoda, in theory, should “drain” the driving test: at the rear there is an ordinary beam, and even the stern is massive. Not so! Octavia demonstrates enchanting durability both in corners and on a straight line. While opponents took the calibrated turn at a speed of about 100 km/h, Skoda easily raised the bar by 15 km/h. So the Focus and Ceed are very good, and the Octavia is simply great.

Its brakes are also excellent - they allow you to control the deceleration with micron accuracy. Focus also has tenacious mechanisms, stable even on mixed doubles. But Ceed, as if frightened by its own agility, settles down too zealously. Even with a light touch you get an impressive slowdown. If this is great in a sprint, then in a calm city rhythm it’s annoying. Brake release on uneven asphalt does not add points either. However, you don’t have to use the pedals and steering wheel at all. After all, Kia is ready to offer active cruise and a lane keeping system. At first I began to find fault with the abrupt course correction, but soon I corrected myself: I am sitting in an inexpensive Korean golf-class hatchback that can steer itself! Has the future really arrived?

Silence in the hall

On mediocre roads, Sida behaves decently. Skillfully filters small things like joints and transverse seams, without disturbing the sacred peace of the inhabitants of the cabin. But as soon as the graph of lousy roads goes up, Kia immediately reminds me - I’m not for the third world, smooth roads are closer to me! The jolts and rocking increase, forcing you to slow down.

Focus and Octavia behave exactly the opposite. They will not fail to inform their inhabitants that we have not yet learned how to make invisible joints on the roads. But larger flaws are dealt with better, although the suspensions of both cars cannot be called impenetrable. The Ford rides a little smoother thanks to its higher profile tires (the Octavia is shod with Continental 225/45 R17).

The Octavia and Focus are also similar in terms of noise level: the road is almost inaudible, and the engines only make themselves known at high speeds. Aerodynamic noise dominates in both, but only after 110 km/h. And the Ceed upset us with its tire noise, which was especially noticeable compared to its quiet rivals.

Anastasia, our friend, owns a whole fleet of vehicles - she has a Nissan Micra, a Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ and two Volga GAZ‑24. Anastasia is just looking for a new car: “A car for me is the main passion of life. Since childhood I loved karting and racing tracks. Therefore, my hero must not only be interesting in appearance, but also must give emotions from control.”

KIA CEED. Cute. The salon attracted attention with its interesting design solutions, implemented without compromising ergonomics. I really liked the sunroof: it opens up the space and gives lightness to the interior. Driving impressions are contradictory. On the one hand, excellent dynamics and very good handling, on the other, the robotic gearbox is annoying with its thoughtfulness and unpredictability. I also noticed insufficient sound insulation - for one and a half million rubles you expect more.

FORD FOCUS. Very pleasant in every way. Provocatively responsive steering, sharp brakes. But what I liked most of all was the engine: you absolutely don’t expect such dynamics from a standard hatchback! The downside is that the interior is very cramped, even for the driver. Some interior details are fitted anyhow. The combination of leather and fabric on the seat upholstery also seemed strange: the leather areas are located just under the hips and back, and this contradicts the ideology of combined seats.

SKODA OCTAVIA. Skoda pleased and upset at the same time. I did not expect such excellent dynamics and incomparable performance of the gearbox. What surprised me even more was the phenomenal stability on the road - I have only experienced such driving pleasure in cars of premium brands. The fit has been worked out for five, it’s difficult to find fault with anything. However, this excellent car hides behind a completely drab exterior. And yet, from today’s trio, I would take Octavia. It would be nice to have a bright green Skoda color. Alas, it is no longer in the range.

Three out of three

Alexander Vinogradov: “The new Ceed has improved significantly from a technical point of view. This was not enough to beat the “economic” Octavia, but it still beat the “driver’s” Focus.”

How Ford Focus No matter how hard you try to feed the pleasure of driving, you won’t be satisfied with this alone. He lost to his competitors in practicality and today is content with only bronze. Don't think that I am biased towards him. This is my fifth year and I really love this car. But age takes its toll. Ford has already earned a generational change, which is just around the corner in our market.

Kia Ceed- breath of fresh air. The impression was slightly spoiled by the obstinate robot. But the cash register will be made by a more affordable version with a 1.6‑liter naturally aspirated engine and a regular automatic transmission - I hope we’ll try that too.

Skoda Octavia- this is Captain America in our Avengers team. The most spacious, fastest and most obedient car in the trio. A perfectionist to the core. Our conclusion is also verified by the market: Octavia is a class leader. How long?

Kar-index takes into account operating costs over a mileage of 70,000 km: registration and inspection fees, transport tax, costs of compulsory motor insurance, fuel and scheduled maintenance, as well as losses on resale of the car.

KIA CEED	SKODA OCTAVIA	FORD FOCUS
13,80	14,60	14,30

MANUFACTURERS DATA

	FORD FOCUS	KIA CEED	SKODA OCTAVIA
Curb/gross weight	1364 / 1900 kg	1402 / 1850 kg	1269 / 1819 kg
Acceleration time 0–100 km/h	9.3 s	9.2 s	8.2 s
Maximum speed	210 km/h	205 km/h	219 km/h
Fuel/fuel reserve	AI-92 / 55 l	AI-95 / 50 l	AI-95 / 50 l
Fuel consumption: urban/suburban/combined cycle	10.0 / 4.9 / 6.7 l / 100 km	7.7 / 5.2 / 6.1 l / 100 km	6.0 / 4.2 / 4.9 l / 100 km
ENGINE
Type	petrol, supercharged	petrol, supercharged	petrol, supercharged
Location	front, transverse	front, transverse	front, transverse
Configuration / number of valves	P4/16	P4/16	P4/16
Working volume	1499 cm³	1353 cm³	1395 cm³
Power	110 kW/150 hp at 6000 rpm	103 kW/140 hp at 6000 rpm	110 kW/150 hp at 5000 rpm
Torque	240 N m at 1600–4000 rpm	242 N m at 1500–3200 rpm	250 N m at 1500–3500 rpm
TRANSMISSION
type of drive	front	front	front
Transmission
Gear ratios: I / II / III / IV / V / VI / VII / z.kh.	4,55 / 2,96 / 1,91 / 1,45 / 1,00 / 0,74 / - / 2,94	3,93 / 2,32 / 2,04 / 1,07 / 0,82 / 0,88 / 0,72 / 5,34	3,76 / 2,27 / 1,53 / 1,13 / 1,18 / 0,96 / 0,80 / 4,17
main gear	3,01	4,29 / 3,17	4,44 / 3,23
CHASSIS
Suspension: front/rear

Budget category C cars are perhaps the best choice for an economical utilitarian car. Among them you can find comfortable sedans, rational station wagons and hatchbacks that occupy a middle position - variety is often the driver’s main requirement for a particular line. Their relation to the middle class of vehicles makes it possible to achieve an optimal ratio of spaciousness and compactness. Particularly noteworthy in this regard are station wagons, which have a capacious trunk, while not exceeding the size of a sedan. In addition, midsize passenger cars do not consume much fuel compared to crossovers and SUVs, and are also more affordable to purchase.

Skoda Oktavia vs Kia Ceed Which car is better

However, when choosing among Class C, the driver is often faced with several options. Most often they are Kia Ceed and Skoda Octavia - leaders in the budget segment. These cars became popular not so long ago - just a few years ago, both companies represented products that were ordinary by market standards. The quality and functionality of the cars has increased noticeably and now the Sid and Octavia can compete with cars such as the Mazda 3 and, while still competing with each other.

Description of Skoda Octavia

Exterior of Skoda Octavia

This line of Czech cars has existed for more than 20 years. The third generation (2013) includes two body styles - a liftback (a relative of the sedan) and a station wagon. Over two decades on the market, Octavia has gained one of the best reputations and received the title of a reliable, affordable car with an excellent price-quality ratio. The Skoda company belongs to the Volkswagen concern, which largely explains why these cars are so good. Despite the fact that Octavia is assembled in the Czech Republic, at all stages it is subject to strict control, classic for the Germans. This approach has allowed Skoda cars to become the highest quality in the world in terms of the number of manufacturing defects - they are much less common than on products of any other brand.

Description Kia Ceed

As for the car of the South Korean manufacturer, the Sid line was released relatively recently - in 2006. Offers two bodies: and station wagon. Thus, she exists 2 times less than Octavia. Despite this, the Kia car also has a high quality and level of comfort, as well as an even better price-function ratio than its competitor. Korean cars are famous for their originality and freshness of technology, so the relatively young Kia Sid has implemented all the best ideas of engineers. The current generation of the car was produced in 2012. Over time, the Sid line became the most purchased among Kia products, displacing even Rio. This suggests that the model turned out to be really successful and in demand on the market.

Comparison of Skoda Octavia and Kia Sid

It often happens that a car enthusiast is faced with a choice between these two cars. In order for the decision to be informed, it is necessary to compare cars according to all criteria and make an individual verdict, taking into account personal requirements and wishes.

Options

The third generation Skoda Octavia is available to the buyer in liftback and . Its basic equipment includes:

Front and side airbags, as well as curtain airbags;
On-board computer;
Adjustable steering wheel height and the ability to fold and move the seats;
Immobilizer;
Electric window lifts.

The minimum configuration of the car will cost the buyer 872,000 rubles. The engine line includes both relatively economical 1.6-liter engines with a capacity of 110 horsepower, and two-liter engines with a capacity of 180 horsepower. With. The engines run on gasoline - with the exception of one 150-horsepower engine, which is powered by diesel fuel. Octavia can have an automatic, manual or manual transmission. The most expensive equipment is estimated at 2,120,000 rubles.

Kia Sid, in turn, has in the basic set:

Folding seats and the ability to adjust the steering column in 2 directions;
Side and front airbags, curtain airbags;
6 speakers;
Electric drive of mirrors and windows.

The minimum set of equipment sets the price of the car at 855,000 rubles. You can immediately notice that the Sid, although slightly, is cheaper than the Octavia in the basic version. The range of engines is from 1.4 liters and 100 horsepower to 1.6 liters and 204 horsepower. They all run on gasoline. The car has front-wheel drive and can be equipped with a robotic, manual or automatic transmission. The most expensive variation labeled GT (turbocharged engine under the hood) will cost approximately 1,220,000 rubles.

Price

This parameter is one of the main ones in comparison. Firstly, drivers demand a truly affordable price. A reservation should be made here: due to the financial crisis, prices have increased significantly, so 855 thousand rubles for the Sid and 872 thousand for the Octavia are affordable price tags by market standards.

Secondly, for these cars, like other representatives of the middle class, the functionality greatly depends on the cost of the equipment. For an increase that can make the car almost one and a half times more expensive, the driver will receive a number of functions that are decisive for some. So, Sid initially has a more affordable price and slightly more modest equipment and is better suited for those who do not have a large budget, and Octavia, the best equipment of which costs 900 thousand more than the most advanced Kia, is ready to offer much more - the ratio of price and equipment of the car more profitable.

Technical specifications

Dimensions of Skoda Octavia:

Length - 4659 mm;
Width - 1814 mm;
Height - 1461;
Ground clearance - 160 mm;
The luggage compartment volume is 590 liters for the liftback and 610 for the station wagon.

It is noteworthy that the station wagon and liftback have identical dimensions.

Dimensions of Kia Sid:

Length - 4505 mm for the station wagon and 4310 mm for the hatchback;
Width - 1780 mm for both body types;
Height - 1485 mm for the station wagon and 1470 mm for the hatchback;
Ground clearance - 150 mm (except for the GT version - it has 140 mm);
The luggage compartment volume is 380 liters for the hatchback and 628 for the station wagon.

Drawing conclusions from the dimensions of Skoda and Kia, you can see that their similar body solutions - station wagons - are very different. Both versions of the Octavia have a relatively high ground clearance and the same large dimensions, while the Rio versions are more compact - the hatchback differs from the Skoda by 35 centimeters. Octavia, on the other hand, has greater potential on dirt roads, which, coupled with a 220 hp engine. With. gives the car excellent off-road potential.

Ride quality

It has 5 engines, of which two have a volume of 2 liters - gasoline and diesel. All engines are equipped with the following transmissions:

1.4 - manual (6 gears), robot (7 gears);
1.6 - manual (5), automatic (6),
1.8 - mechanics (6), robot (7);
2.0 - mechanical and robotic - 6 gears each;
2.0 (diesel) - manual and robotic - 6 gears each.

The most powerful Octavia engine supports a maximum speed of 243 to 248 km/h - this depends on the type of power supply and gearbox. The 220-horsepower unit accelerates the car to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds. The consumption of gasoline engines ranges from 5.5 to 6.7 liters of fuel per 100 km compared to diesel engines with its 4.9 liters.

Kia Sid offers a choice of one of four engines - 1.4 liters and three 1.6 liters, including a turbocharged one. They are equipped with manual and automatic six-speed transmissions. The turbocharged version has the best acceleration rate in the third generation Sid - 7.6 seconds to 100 km/h. The maximum speed is 230 km/h.

Engines consume from 6.2 to 7.4 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. In some cases, the value may go beyond the passport - this is especially noticeable with the most powerful car engine, which consumes up to 9.7 liters. This is due to the engines themselves: they perform poorly at low speeds, rapidly consuming fuel - the driver is forced to either accelerate or spend money on fuel. In addition, Sid also has problems with acceleration. Engineers made the suspension volatile to make the car more controllable. This led to the fact that Kia became a little “tight”.

You will notice that the best Octavia and Sid engines are very similar - with the exception of the diesel one in Skoda. It is recommended to be chosen by drivers who want to save money, as it quickly pays for itself.

As for the transmission, the Octavia is moderately sensitive and has good control. Sid lags behind in this regard - its transmission is not only less convenient, but also requires a lot of experience and attention. One way or another, all the defects of both cars are invisible on good quality asphalt.

Appearance

The Skoda design has sporty and presentable features. At the same time, the car cannot be classified as a sports or business class - it still represents the average one. The Octavia's interior will appeal more to conservative drivers with an established view of the world. Strict headlights and grille, coupled with the original curves of the hood and doors, add sophistication to the appearance of the car.

The appearance of the Kia Sid is very different from its competitor. It, like other cars from this manufacturer, is characterized by a more aggressive and daring appearance - a style that will most likely appeal to young drivers. The body has dynamic features with unusual headlights and lines.

Functional

The most complete set of Skoda Octavia has better equipment compared to Kia:

Active and passive safety systems - 6 airbags, including side airbags, as well as curtain airbags. ABS, ESP.
Options that increase the comfort of the car - parking sensors, air conditioning and climate control, computer, navigation, audio system, full power accessories (including locking locks), heated mirrors and seats, adjustable seats and steering wheel.
Rich appearance - alloy wheels, xenon fog and adaptive headlights.
Systems that make driving easier - assistance when starting uphill, differential locking.

Some of this equipment is optional and is not included in the price of the most expensive Octavia configuration. All options will increase the price tag of the car by 110 thousand rubles. Definitely, Skoda not only has the best price-function ratio, but is also, in principle, equipped with features that Kia does not have.

Kia equipped with the GT engine has:

Like the Octavia, there are 6 airbags and curtains, but their location provides less protection. Also ABS, ESP, power steering, passive cruise control and hill assist system.
Comfort enhancement systems are the same as Skoda's - only the navigation system is missing.
An identical set of body functions to the Skoda - advanced headlights.
Of the active driving systems, only hill start assistance is present.

Kia Sid does not have additional equipment packages. It cannot be called poorly equipped - this car more than covers not only the basic needs of the driver and passengers, but is also able to provide them with comfort on long trips and access to modern functions.

Conclusion

Comparing the Octavia and the Sid, it becomes clear that these two cars differ in almost every criterion. The difference is felt both in terms of driving performance and comfort. However, Skoda claims to be a business-class car - the best equipment includes many functions that are unnecessary in a crisis, because you have to pay a lot for them. At the same time, comparing options of the same price category - approximately 1,200,000 rubles - it becomes clear that Skoda is noticeably inferior to Kia at the same price. Thus, Kia objectively deserves more attention in the mass market, because many drivers prefer to save money, and if they choose a functional car, then it will be from the business class. The Sid is a great choice if you're on a budget - both a hatchback and an estate, it performs best in the C class.

Against the backdrop of recent events in the automotive world, we decided to compare the Skoda Octavia and Kia Sid, and thereby make our contribution to resolving the eternal debate on the topic: which is better - European or Asian cars.

The compact “family car” Octavia, which debuted in 1996, got its name from the model range produced in the post-war period. The debut modification was based on the PQ34 platform, which was also used in the design of the legendary Volkswagen Golf. Interestingly, the Ukrainian Eurocar plant also produces an off-road version of the car - the Octavia Tour.

In 2004, the second generation model was presented, which already used the A5 module. In 2009, Octavia underwent restyling, after which it received the prefix in its name - FL. At the end of 2012, the long-awaited presentation of the Octavia A7, the third generation model, took place. By the way, the car was recognized as the safest in its class at the end of 2013.

Kia Sid can be called a relatively young model, since it was first put on public display in 2006. The car replaced the Cerato, and positions itself exclusively as a model for the European market. It is worth noting that the debut version of the Sid was assembled at the Slovak plant in the city of Zilina, where almost 100,000 cars rolled off the assembly line in a year.

In 2012, the presentation of the second generation LED took place. Interestingly, in 2007 alone, the model received several prestigious awards and was recognized as the best in Greece, Poland, Belgium and Sweden.

Only because the Czechs managed to release more modifications of their model, we give them an advantage in this regard.

Appearance

Externally, Octavia and Sid are two completely different models. The following can be said about the exterior of the “Korean”: a very stylish, but at the same time conservative appearance, with a strong hint of solidity and representativeness. Sid's situation is somewhat different: a very progressive and bright appearance that combines traditional Asian stylistic concepts and modern technologies.

Compared to the Octavia, the front of the Sid looks more aggressive and sporty. Most impressive are the high-tech optics and fog lights. Analyzing the side and rear of the “Korean”, we can come to the conclusion that the designers decided to deviate from generally accepted norms and created a completely original and unique exterior. And this contrasts markedly with the traditional appearance of the Octavia.

Therefore, here we will give preference to Sid.

Salon

But regarding the interior, the situation is completely opposite. While the Octavia's interior is a combination of technology and bold design solutions, Korean specialists did not invent anything and designed the interior as simply as possible. To be honest, it makes no sense to compare the interior decoration of cars, since the clear and undisputed favorite here is the Czech model.

Specifications

To be honest, it is very difficult to select two modifications of models to compare technical characteristics, since even cars with the same engine size are noticeably different. We have chosen two petrol versions with 1.6-liter engines of 2017, and now we will try to compare them as objectively as possible. So, it is advisable to fill each of the cars with 95-octane gasoline so that they can reach their full potential. Among the general points, I would also like to note the presence of a front-wheel drive truck and the absence of any additional superchargers in the engines.

As for the engines themselves, the Octavia produces 110 horsepower, which is 20 “horses” less than its opponent. This was not reflected in the dynamics at all. The acceleration time from zero to hundreds for both cars is 10.8 seconds. In terms of fuel consumption, the Czech will be better - 6.1 liters on average, versus 6.7 liters for the opponent.

As for the transmission, the Octavia is equipped with a six-speed automatic and five-speed manual, while the Sid is equipped with a 6-speed manual/automatic/robot. In terms of dimensions, the Czech model is superior to its counterpart in almost every indicator. The Octavia's body is 162 mm longer than the LED, despite the fact that the Korean model is 5 mm taller than its competitor. Further, Octavia’s complete hegemony is observed in the length of the wheelbase - 2686 versus 2650 mm, and ground clearance - 155 versus 150 mm.

The Octavia is 21 kg heavier than the Sid, and also has a larger trunk size: 588 by 528 liters.

Price

The average cost of a station wagon is 1,200,000 rubles. At the same time, the Kia Sid station wagon will cost about 350,000 rubles less.

Considering the advantages and disadvantages of cars, in terms of price, Sid looks more worthy.

Alexander Sotnikov, master of sports, multiple champion of Russia, director of the SMP RSKG races, is not too verbose, but categorical:

Guys, are you in the wrong address? I only did three laps. This car is completely alien on the race track!

Interesting twist. But in the city and on the highway, the Octavia made a completely different impression: the 180-horsepower turbo engine inspired confidence that I had almost a hot hatch in my hands! And since we are not talking about a taxi version at all, the idea came to give up on the “Smolensk Ring”.

The company was chosen, as I saw it, the right one. Although there isn't much to choose from. noticeably more powerful (230 hp) - not good. Ford Focus ST is no longer sold here. Opel and Seat left the Russian market. Only the Kia cee'd GT remains. The power gap (204 hp) is not critical, and the “Korean” has no advantage at all in torque: 265 Nm versus 280 Nm.

The real surprise (I won’t say pleasant) was the price of the Octavia - 2,256,900 rubles. I have never had a more expensive Skoda in my hands. Against this background, the Cee’d GT seems like a super bargain purchase - 1,314,900 rubles. What about the co-platform Skoda?

I'm calling the press park.

Yes, we have such a “three ruble”. With all options it costs 2,742,000 rubles.

The rings are diamonds! I wonder how Skoda will perform against the background of its rich relative and more powerful Kia?

Audi A3 Sedan

All A3s of the first two generations were hatchbacks. The sedan debuted only in 2013, following the new generation “three ruble” hatchback. The base engine comes exclusively with front-wheel drive, while the two-liter car can be had with a 4x4 transmission.

ENGINES:

petrol:

1.4 (150 hp) - from RUB 1,639,000.

2.0 (190 hp) - from RUB 1,840,000.

Kia cee'd GT

The first hot hatchback in the history of the Korean brand was presented in 2015. The three-door modification is offered under the name pro_cee’d GT. Both are available exclusively with a manual transmission.

ENGINE:

petrol:

1.6 T-GDI (204 hp) - from RUB 1,314,900.

Skoda Octavia

The third generation car debuted in 2013, and went on sale this spring, the main difference of which is the “four-eyed” head optics.

ENGINES:

petrol:

1.6 (110 hp) - from 940,000 rub.

1.4 (150 hp) - from 998,000 rub.

1.8 (180 hp) - from RUB 1,236,000.

2.0 (230 hp) - from RUB 2,276,000.

Fitting

Of all the cars, the Octavia is of course the most interesting. Jumping behind the wheel, I immediately notice the new multimedia system with a 9.2‑inch screen. Colorful pictures, speed, ease of use - everything is better than that of its competitors.

Visibility thanks to the high seating position and large mirrors is excellent.

The attention to detail is also captivating. Thus, the glove compartment and door pockets are covered with pile: things in them do not rattle. There is a niche under the front seat for storing reflective vests, and on the windshield there is a very convenient holder for parking tickets and other scraps.

In the Octavia you feel like you are in a car of a higher class. And it’s not only about the high-quality finish, but also about the amazing space. There is especially a lot of space in the back - Gulliver, Goliath and Sabonis will sit in addition. There is no more spacious car of comparable dimensions! And the service for those sitting in the back is at the same level: three-stage seat heating, upper air deflectors, two USB connectors and even a 220-volt socket.

Even the Audi A3 with its luxurious interior trim pales in comparison to the Octavia. But the “treshka” is inferior in equipment: no push-button engine start, no lane keeping system. There's not even cruise control. The screen, which effectively emerges from the depths of the center console, is small and does not transmit such a clear image. And how much tighter the Audi is! The headroom in the back row is especially small. This is partly due to the panoramic roof, which stole a couple of centimeters of space.

The strong point of the “three ruble” is its ergonomics and sports seats from the S line package. Rigid, with an ideal profile, exemplary lateral support and numerous adjustments, including a retractable popliteal bolster. Luxurious “furniture”!

The Kia's Recaro seats are also sporty. But they don’t live up to the Audi seats. Firstly, people of heavy build are not welcome. Secondly, they offer fewer adjustments. Finally, they simply lack intelligence. What I mean is that the lumbar support moves with such speed and impudence that it will count the vertebrae at any moment. You need to be gentler with people, softer.

And the rest of the Kia’s interior was less liked, although with its steering wheel cut off along the lower chord and contrasting stitching, it tries to look more expensive than it is. Some people might be hooked, but I don’t succumb to such charms. They immediately break on a miniature multimedia screen, the size of a cigarette pack. And I didn’t like the visibility: the triangles of the front pillars get in the way, and the miniature side mirrors don’t give confidence.

There's room in the back (though up to Octavia level), but passengers lack the overhead vents and power outlets found in competitors. Also in Kia the door handles are loose and crunchy. In general, the Sid’s interior lacks the solidity that captivates the interiors of the Octavia and A3.

Tracing

While we were getting out of Moscow, the cee’d GT managed to put a lot of effort into it. The Koreans equip their “lighter” exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission, which takes a lot of effort and energy in traffic jams. Moreover, the thrust at low speeds is as good as a nose: if you don’t have enough gas at the start, you will certainly stall under the reproachful glances of those around you.

But on the track, the attitude towards Kia changes. It accelerates the car cheerfully, and its elasticity allows you to rarely change gears. It's just a bit noisy. And it doesn't shake like a child. It’s better not to drive on broken asphalt - it’s like going to a rodeo!

The three-ruble car with its optional sports chassis also shakes, but the suspension “rounds out” the bumps. Especially if you switch the Audi Drive Select system to comfort mode, in which the adaptive shock absorbers are softened and the steering wheel becomes lighter (but not at the expense of information). The 1.4 TFSI engine is quite quiet and economical: on average, the A3 consumed 7.5 l/100 km, while rivals needed one and a half liters more. I really liked the operation of the seven-speed DSG gearbox with two dry clutches - it shifts smoothly and delicately.

We also have Octavia with a robot, but with a 6-speed gearbox equipped with “wet” clutches. And it doesn’t work so smartly - you can feel it, especially in sports mode. What Skoda captivates with is its high level of driving comfort. Sound insulation here is better than in Audi, as is the smoothness of the ride. Where rivals are forced to slow down, Octavia drives as if nothing had happened.

But I myself (ZR, No. 3, 2013) and tapping in the pits. Why did you change your point of view? The fact is that modifications with engines with a power of 180 horsepower and above are equipped with an independent rear suspension instead of a torsion beam. A different design, different settings - that's a gain in comfort.

In style at the chicane

There are training sessions at the Smolensk Ring before the start, so you can go to the track only during the break between races. But the asphalt has already been warmed up and rolled, which promises a good “hold.”

Now the screams of racing cars have died down - you can go to the track!

Alexander Sotnikov first approaches the Audi.

It’s just that out of all three cars it was closer,” he seemed to justify his choice.

Already in the first quarter of the lap, the understanding comes that the bright red Audi sedan “doesn’t have enough” engine. At the exits from the apex, the “three ruble” responds too slowly to the opening of the throttle, and Alexander shakes his head reproachfully.

Little fire. I want a little more! - I began to sing a once popular song.

“Heart failure,” states Alexander. - It's a pity, because the chassis is configured wonderfully. A3 gives pleasure from fast driving, lights up. The “treshka” does not have the understeer inherent in most front-wheel drive cars; it has a hooligan character. Responses to the steering wheel, both in standard and in extreme modes, are correct and understandable. With the stabilization system disabled, the Audi doesn't even try to slide. It rides tightly and tenaciously. The chassis reserves are considerable - it can handle much more power. I think it’s quite possible to come to us for track days in three-ruble cars with a serious engine.

And the robot doesn't bother you?

Absolutely. The seven-speed S tronic shifts smoothly both up and down. There are delays, but they are not critical. This would include paddle shifters! There is no desire to put the box into manual mode and pull the lever, because this is a mirror scheme relative to racing cars. There, away from oneself means switching downwards, towards oneself - upwards, but here it’s the other way around. Therefore, I don’t even try to interfere, the box itself does a good job.

After the scoring lap, Alexander returned to the “base” with a jubilant smile:

Show off! Lap result - 1 minute 57.3 seconds. Worthy for a 150-horsepower car!

We change to Kia. Acceleration is more vigorous, but it doesn’t smell like excitement: the cee’d GT picks up speed too evenly. From a hot hatch you expect ardor, enthusiasm, a booming exhaust sound... But the suspension, which was annoying with its rigidity at the race track, turned out to be just right.

Kia doesn’t give many emotions,” Sotnikov reflects. - A3 is more interesting to drive. In extreme conditions, under full traction, understeer appears, and you have to push it into turns. And the lack of blocking is annoying. The unloaded wheel is not held back by anything. And when you press the gas and hear how helplessly the inner wheel skids, you understand that at that moment the car is not accelerating, but wearing down the tires and wasting time. There is little joy in this.

What's good about the cee'd GT?

A motor with good traction. And the manual transmission adds its own flavor. The gear ratio is well chosen, and the clutch is also not satisfactory. But the brakes are not very good. When braking to the floor, they give up. And during the subsequent slowdown, the picture gets even worse. So before a fast, qualifying lap, it is advisable to cool the brakes.

Which is what Alexander did, and then drove the track for 1 minute 56.3 seconds.

“I, of course, know that the Skoda Octavia and Audi A3 are built on a common platform,” Sotnikov reported, climbing into the “four-eyed” liftback. - An excellent German product under a Czech brand. And yet this is not an Audi. And the seats are not so grippy, and the steering wheel is not so grippy. It is noticeable that this is a more affordable car. On the track it reacts very gently to curbs and rolls noticeably.

It feels like the Octavia is well prepared for driving on not the best roads. And she has more mass. In civilian modes you don’t notice this, but as soon as you rush, the heaviness begins to get in the way.

Alexander sharply slows down the car before the apex, and sharply adds gas at the exit.

Mass is almost of paramount importance. This is not only fast acceleration and confident braking, but also the right habits. Octavia with its heavy “muzzle” drives “past” the turn, falling out of the trajectory, and prowls a little more when sliding. All-wheel drive is of no use now, on dry and clean asphalt. Although in rainy weather the situation will, of course, change for the better. In general, it feels like this is the most civilian car that ended up on the race track due to a misunderstanding.

After thanking Alexander, we left the gates of the Smolensk Ring. We walked as usual, and Skoda was again in its element. And based on the totality of consumer qualities, it defeated its opponents with a huge advantage.

The Audi A3 is tighter, which is largely why it ended up in second place, although it showed a fighting spirit on the ring.

The See'd GT surprised, although in terms of many consumer properties it could not impose rivalry on Octavia. Before the race at the Smolensk Ring, it seemed to me like a stupid, tough car, but on the track it managed to win back positions - the best time! And the price is such that fans of track days will not find a better offer. As for everyday life, the cee’d GT requires an automatic transmission - in any case, it will be just right on the busy Moscow rings.

MANUFACTURERS DATA

	AUDI A3 SEDAN	KIA CEE'D GT	SKODA OCTAVIA
Curb/gross weight	1320 / 1795 kg	1395 / 1870 kg	1428 / 1991 kg
Acceleration time 0–100 km/h		7.6 s	7.4 s
Maximum speed	224 km/h	230 km/h	229 km/h
Turning radius	n.d.	n.d.	6.2 m
Fuel/fuel reserve	AI-95 - AI-98 / 50 l	AI-95 - AI-98 / 53 l	AI-95 - AI-98 / 55 l
Fuel consumption: city /suburban / mixed cycle	5.9 / 4.1 / 4.8 l / 100 km	9.7 / 6.1 / 7.4 l / 100 km	8.1 / 5.7 / 6.6 l / 100 km
ENGINE
Type	petrol	petrol	petrol
Location	front, transverse	front, transverse	front, transverse
Configuration/ number of valves	P4/16	P4/16	P4/16
Working volume	1395 cm³	1591 cm³	1798 cm³
Compression ratio	11,5
Power	110 kW / 150 hp at 5000–000 rpm	150 kW / 204 hp at 6000 rpm	132 kW / 180 hp at 6300 rpm
Torque	250 Nm at 1500–3500 rpm	265 Nm at 1500–4500 rpm	280 Nm at 1350–3500 rpm
TRANSMISSION
type of drive	front	front	full
Transmission
Gear ratios: I / II / III / IV / V / VI / VII / Z.H.	3,50 / 2,09 / 1,34 / 0,93 / 0,97 / 0,78 / 0,65 / 3,72	n.d.	3,46 / 2,05 / 1,30 / 0,90 / 0,91 / 0,76 / - / 3,99
main gear	4,50	n.d.	3,33
CHASSIS
Suspension: front/rear	McPherson / multi-link	McPherson / multi-link	McPherson / multi-link
Steering	rack and pinion, with EUR	rack and pinion, with EUR	rack and pinion, with EUR
Brakes: front and rear	disc, ventilated	disc, ventilated	disc, ventilated
Tires	225 / 40 R18	225 / 40 R18	225 / 45 R17

SERVICE IN NUMBERS

	Maintenance frequency	Guarantee	Dealers (service stations)
AUDI A3 SEDAN	15,000 km or 12 months	4 years or 120,000 km or 2 years without mileage limitation
KIACEE'D GT	15,000 km or 12 months	5 years or 150,000 km
SKODA OCTAVIA	15,000 km or 12 months	2 years without mileage limitation

EXPERT ASSESSMENT OF VEHICLES

Model	AUDI A3 SEDAN	KIA CEE'D GT	SKODA OCTAVIA
Driver's workplace	The most comfortable front seats in civilian life are those of the Skoda: ideal profile, comfortable headrest, lots of adjustments. At Audi, in addition to this, the length of the cushion is adjusted, but the “saddle” itself will be stiffer. And the toughest is Kia. This is ideal for a track, but not so much for everyday life. The ergonomics of the driver's seat have no ups and downs, but the A3 is still most comfortable for the driver. The best visibility is in the Octavia.
	9	9	9
Controls	9	8	8
	8	8	9
Salon	In terms of space and equipment, Octavia takes the lead in the test trinity. She surpassed her opponents in terms of space in the second row - almost a limousine! Skoda is also ahead of its rivals in terms of trunk capacity.
Front end	8	8	9
Rear end	7	8	10
Trunk	8	8	10
Ride quality	The most powerful car in the trio, quite expectedly, turned out to be the most dynamic. But Octavia is barely behind Sid. At the same time, no fuss with a manual gearbox. The Korean's brakes require skill and you need to get used to them. I liked the handling of all three cars.
Dynamics	8	9	9
	9	8	9
Controllability	10	9	8
Comfort	Sid has the worst sound insulation: the road hums, the engine growls... Contrary to expectations, inside the premium three-ruble car is no quieter than in the Octavia. In terms of smoothness, the A3 was completely inferior to its Czech sister. And the worst performer in this regard was the “Korean”: the shaking in the cabin was incredible.

Smooth ride

Adaptation to Russia	The Octavia has the highest ground clearance: 145 mm. A3 and Sid have a measly 125 mm at their disposal. Octavia and cee'd GT received nines for the abundance of dealerships. None of the three cars are equipped with a full-size spare tire. But if the A3 and Sid only had room in the trunk for skinny “pancakes,” then the Octavia has a full-fledged wheel measuring 205/55 R16 at its disposal. The lion's share of Octavias are equipped with these, so they did not lower the rating of Skoda due to size discrepancies.

Chevrolet Corvette
Jaguar F-Type SVR
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Porsche Cayman S
Volkswagen Golf R


Renault Megane RS
Skoda Octavia RS
Volkswagen Golf GTI
Toyota GT86 (manual)
Toyota GT86 (automatic)
Kia cee'd GT
Skoda Octavia 1.8 4×4
Audi A3 Sedan 1.4TFSI
Audi A1 1.4TFSI