I think you're right to want to try one. In theory, although the 1.2 TSi has just 104 bhp, it also has 129 lb/ft of torque which is a little more than your 1.8 Mondeo, so overall performance will be similar.

My only experience of the 1.2 TSI was in a 2011 Golf, and although this was only the 85 bhp version. I have to say that I was quite impressed with its pulling ability in most situations. The only time it felt a bit "breathless" was at higher speeds, wanting to overtake on fast A roads.

The refinement and smoothness of the engine was a revelation though.

Yes, a 1.4 TSi is probably the best non diesel engine in an Octavia, but I would avoid any examples with the DSG auto gearbox - go for a manual.

Despite being much bigger than a Golf, the Octavia is only 2kg heavier than a Golf, and about 250kg lighter than the Mondeo.

I've had 1.2TSI 105 Golf hire cars a few times and they feel surprisingly brisk. They were as responsive under "normal" conditions as my 1.8 turbo Octavia, and have a good level of low-revs torque which is what matters most. The only noticable difference is if you really give it some beans - the 1.2 then just makes more noise wheras the 1.8 does go a bit quicker.

Having also driven several different normally aspirated 1.6 engined cars (Astra, Focus etc), I'd put the VAG 1.2 TSI as far more usable in normal conditions - I found myself having to change gear with the 1.6 to keep up with the 50-70-50 motorway traffic flow you get at busy times - even my Kangoo van was better at keeping up!

I'd go for the 1.4 if I were you: just that extra bit of oomph, and a one-year-old 1,4 wonl;t cost much more than a 1.2 to buy or indeed to run.

I'm assuming that you have a Skoda (or any VAG) dealer in your part of Scotland. If not, a Ford might be easier to get repaired if it goes wrong.

Just a quick follow up now I have my new car. I ended up getting an Octavia 1.4SE. I've done a couple of 200 mile trips on mixed highland A roads. The rest of the miles have been a mixture of urban and motorway.

So far the car has a comfortable ride over bad surfaces. I ruled out some options when I was car hunting as anything with any power also came with low profile tyres. I suspect they must give a worse ride on bad roads. The cornering is fine. More than enough for my needs. The engine is better than expected. It pulls well from lower down the revs t- more so than my old 1.8 Mondeo. Lower gear/high revs acceleration is OK possibly a touch less than the Mondeo but rarely needed as it pulls so well lower down the revs. I tend to use the gearbox a bit less as the engine is so flexible.

The first brim to brim tank gave 43.5mpg. About 8 or 10 mpg more than my Moneo gave. Very happy. Between £100+ saved on Excise and less fuel I'll save a few hundred a year compared to the Mondeo.

The interior has no bells and whistles but does the job and has everything I need. Seat height adjust/lumbar support along with steering wheel reach/rake give a good driving position. The seat feels a bit firm initially but is comfortable over longer distances.

I've already used the huge boot a couple of times moving bikes and a fully assembled desk which teminded me why I wanted an Octavia/Mondeo sized car.

I bought a 9 month old 7k miles example which was given it's first main dealer service. as part of the pre delivery checks. I'll be servicing it annually and do about 9k miles a year so hopefully with oil changes at those intervals I'll avoid engine problems. My usage doesn't include many shortbtrips where the engine isn't getting properly warmed up, hopefully that will help as well.

I had ruled out several cars as I didn't fancy an electric handbrake. Coincidentally a work colleague was moaniong about the hassle and expense her electric handbrake was giving her. So I think I made the right call there as I buy cars and keep them long term. For me an electric handbrake would just be a big bill down the line for no benefit over a standard handbrake.

Downsides - tyre noise is a bit intrusive on some surfaces. When the time comes to change tyres noise ratings will be top of my list. Otherwise all good so far and thanks for all comments on this and other threads when I was looking.

an undersized engine running in a high state of tune and with a blower to compensate

It's not that high state of tune, is it? The turbo will give it a reasonable amount of mid range shove and allow it to cruise at low RPM.

I'd be after something bigger, lazier and less likely to go wrong.

The little engine will warm up much more quickly than a bigger one-not an unimportant consideration for an engine that will do a low annual mileage and presumably a lot of short journeys.

I think the 1.2TSi sounds pretty much ideal for the OP's needs.