Thanks to its inherently lighter third-generation chassis, the spacious Octavia is now capable of 88.3mpg in EU standard tests, which corresponds to just 85g/km of CO2.

The amazing figures put the car on an emissions par with the likes of the Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion and even the supermini Kia Rio 1.1 diesel.

Skoda claims that its Greenline Octavias are historically popular with business users for their low running costs and long fuel tank range, which on this model could theoretically reach 972 miles.

Benefit in kind tax is kept to the 13% minimum for diesels thanks to measures like aerodynamic tweaks, special low-rolling resistance tyres designed to be inflated to a higher pressure than normal, and brake energy recuperation.

Prices will start from £20,150 on the road, and the model is on sale now.