Skoda Octavia vs Volkswagen Golf: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Skoda Octavia and Volkswagen Golf, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 1,908,192 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
This is a very close comparison. The Skoda Octavia and Volkswagen Golf both have an 83% MOT pass rate, so they are evenly matched on MOT results. Your decision should come down to the condition of the actual car, running costs, and which feels better to drive.
Skoda Octavia
83%
MOT pass rate
325,416 tests
Volkswagen Golf
83%
MOT pass rate
1,582,776 tests
Full Comparison: Skoda Octavia vs Volkswagen Golf
| Category | Skoda Octavia | Volkswagen Golf |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 83% | 83% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 17% | 17% |
| vs All-Model Avg | +1 pts | +1 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,814 | £1,814 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 10-20 | 15-25 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,500-£3,000 |
| Engine Size | 1.7L | 1.8L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Diesel, Petrol | Diesel, Petrol |
| Segment | Family car | Family car |
| Avg Mileage | 117,700 mi | 99,047 miWinner |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 325,416 | 1,582,776 |
| Model Years | 24 years | 35 years |
| Best Year | 2020 (91%) | 2020 (94%)Winner |
| Worst Year | 1998 (67%) | 2004 (69%)Winner |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Pass rates are the share of MOT tests that ended in a pass (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included), across all years of each model. Best and worst years need at least 100 tests. Fuel cost, insurance group and depreciation are our rough estimates from engine size and make, not official figures.
Common Problems Comparison
Typical issues to check on cars of this type and age, not faults measured for these models.
Skoda Octavia: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Volkswagen Golf: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
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Skoda Octavia vs Volkswagen Golf FAQ
Can I compare a Skoda Octavia and Volkswagen Golf by registration plate?
Yes. Enter each car's UK registration plate on this page or use our free compare tool at carcostcheck.co.uk/compare to see MOT history, mileage, health scores and running costs for the exact vehicles you are considering, not just model averages.
Which is more reliable, the Skoda Octavia or Volkswagen Golf?
They are level on MOT data: the Skoda Octavia and Volkswagen Golf both have an 83% MOT pass rate (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the Skoda Octavia or Volkswagen Golf?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Skoda Octavia costs around £1,814 in fuel, while the Volkswagen Golf costs around £1,814 (our estimates for petrol versions from average engine size, with fuel at GOV.UK average pump prices for the week of 19 October 2026). On these estimates they cost the same in fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Skoda Octavia or Volkswagen Golf?
This is a very close comparison. The Skoda Octavia and Volkswagen Golf both have an 83% MOT pass rate, so they are evenly matched on MOT results. Your decision should come down to the condition of the actual car, running costs, and which feels better to drive.
Skoda Octavia Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Volkswagen Golf Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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