Hatchback road test roundup: Vauxhall Astra, Skoda Octavia and Ford Focus

Traditional models such as the Focus and Astra consistently sit in the top 10 of the nation’s best-seller charts

It’s not hard to see why the humble family hatch is a perennial favourite

SUVs are all the rage these days, but the trusty family hatchback hasn’t had its day. In fact, the sector still accounts for a huge 25 per cent of all UK car sales, and traditional models such as the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra consistently sit in the top 10 of the nation’s best-seller charts.

Majoring in practicality, driving ability and value for money, it’s not hard to see why the humble family hatch is a perennial favourite. The all-new Astra is the latest entry to the marketplace, and it’s said by some to be Vauxhall’s best model in a decade. Is it good enough to top the sales charts? Let’s find out.

Its rivals here are Skoda’s classy and practical Octavia and, of course, the Focus, the sector’s current best seller. We’ve chosen the most economical, tax-friendly and practical variant of each model – all diesels, naturally: the Astra 1.6 CDTi 136 Tech Line, Octavia 1.6 TDI 110 SE Business and Focus 1.5 TDCi 120 Zetec.

Skoda’s classy and practical Octavia

Firstly, how do the three models compare on the road? The torquey Astra delivers strongly from across the rev range. Its diesel is a little noisy, and not the most refined engine here, but teamed with the six-ratio manual transmission it ensures you can really have some fun. Turn-in through the bends is eager, while the ride is firm but not intrusive, although the steering could do with a little more weight.

In comparison, the Octavia pulls well from low in the range but ultimately seems a little slow, which is backed up by the official performance figures. Its five-ratio manual doesn’t always optimise the revs, and again the engine gives off a slight drone. Handling and grip are adequate, while ride is a little uninspiring; it’s not exactly exciting to drive.

The torquey Vauxhall Astra

With its smaller, 1.5-litre engine, the Focus also lacks muscle. But ironically, while you have to rev it more and make determined use of the six-speed gearbox, it’s the most refined unit here. Where the Ford really stands out is in its ride, handling and steering package; it’s definitely the most entertaining car on test from behind the wheel.

Next up, the cabin comparison – and here the Octavia excels. It’s comfortable, solidly built and roomy both front and rear, and its 590-litre boot capacity is the most generous on test. Meanwhile, the Vauxhall interior’s quality and layout are nearly as impressive, and rear space is comparable, if a little lacking on headroom. Its 370-litre boot is smaller, but sensibly square-shaped. The Focus’s cabin sits at the bottom of the group for finish, materials and rear space. Its 316-litre boot is the smallest, and a narrow opening means it’s the least easily accessible here, too.

The Ford Focus is the most refined unit here

All contenders are well equipped as standard, with the Octavia nosing marginally ahead. From a running costs viewpoint, company car tax for the three models is comparable, while the Ford and Vauxhall are the cheaper models to lease. Private buyers will be able to negotiate better discounts on the Focus. Servicing, warranties and depreciation are similar across the board, while for diesel consumption the Ford is the most economical and the Skoda the least.

So, the Focus 1.5 TDCi 120 Zetec majors on fun, refinement and price – but the payoff is a slightly poorer level of kit compared to its rivals here, and a smaller, less classy cabin. The latter interior points are where the Octavia 1.6 TDI 110 SE Business excels, but we know there are better still versions of this Skoda hatch available, so in this company we give the crown to the Astra 1.6 CDTi 136 Tech Line. It’s speedy, involving to drive and the quality interior really impresses. Well done Vauxhall!

Vauxhall Astra: ****

Engine size: 1.6-litre diesel

Price from: £18,880 (list)

Power: 134bhp

Torque: 236lb ft

0-62mph: 8.7 seconds

Top speed: 127mph

Fuel economy: 55.1mpg

CO2: 99g/km

Skoda Octavia: ****

Engine size: 1.6-litre diesel

Price from: £19,650 (list)

Power: 109bhp

Torque: 184lb ft

0-62mph: 10.6 seconds

Top speed: 121mph

Fuel economy: 51.3mpg

CO2: 99g/km

Ford Focus: ***

Engine size: 1.5-litre diesel

Price from: £19,795 (list)

Power: 118bhp

Torque: 199lb ft

0-62mph: 10.0 seconds

Top speed: 120mph

Fuel economy: 58.5mpg

CO2: 98g/km