IF YOU had to throw your cards on the table and define the exact moment Skoda really came of age, the smart money would be the day the Octavia was launched.
This was the model which finally convinced a sceptical British public that the Czech marque was not only of superior quality but also one worth trusting.
Five years down the line, the Octavia, and its estate version in particular, is still a terrific value for money car, even if a few design wrinkles are starting to show on the outside.
Of the nine available engines, four of which are oil-burners, the test car's 1.9 TDI PD 130bhp unit from the Volkswagen stable is the latest to join the range and comes with a six-speed transmission.
Through higher injection pressure, the PD - it actually stands for Pumpe Duse - system creates more power and therefore more torque than previous diesels in the Skoda line-up.
And this precision injection enables the engine to return excellent fuel consumption - an average 50mpg economy in the case of the estate.
As a load lugger, and that's what concerns us here, the Octavia fits the bill with a boot volume that outshines many of its rivals, while the split rear seat also folds down.
It is a versatile space too. Fully panelled and carpeted, the floor has glide rails for easier loading, plus four fastening points, a roll-out cover to keep stored items out of sight and no intrusion from the spare wheel, which goes under the boot floor.
As to comfort, well the interior is very Germanic, reflecting the influence of parent company VW, with easily accessible switches and a positive feel from the steering.
On test. the Octavia Estate performed well on roads varying from the city and suburban run to farm tracks and the motorway. It is a relaxed cruiser which behaved confidently in every area, even when fully laden, though you do notice the engine noise.
And being in the top spec Laurin & Klement trim, named after the entrepreneurs who founded the company in 1895, it came with soft-feel leather upholstery, those high power xenon headlamps so useful at this time of year and love 'em or loathe 'em heated front seats.
All models include twin airbags, air-con, immobiliser, on-board computer, sound system, ABS, four electric windows and central locking as standard. Higher spec versions add side airbags and electric sunroof.
The glovebox is lockable and the fuel filler cap is released from inside the car. There's also a three-year unlimited mileage warranty.
If you're seeking a robust, all-purpose performer with enviable space and safety levels at a sensible price - the entry level 1.6 Classic estate is £11,315 - then the Skoda's a smart choice.
FAST FACTS
Skoda Octavia 1.9 TDI PD Laurin & Klement Estate
Price: £16,715
Mechanical: 130bhp, 1,896cc Pumpe Duse turbodiesel engine driving front wheels via 6-spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 129mph
0-62mph: 9.7 secs
Combined mpg: 52.3
Insurance group: 11
CO2 emissions: 146g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited miles; 10yrs anti-rust; 3yrs paint