The saloon model came top for overall customer satisfaction, reliability and running costs.

It is the first time in five years the survey has not been won by a Japanese car.

Japanese brands still dominated the table, occupying six of the top ten spots and 10 of the top 20.

Four German cars, including two BMW 5-Series models, were included in the top ten.

The Lexus RX was second overall, followed by the Honda S2000 and the Honda Civic.

Skoda UK director Chris Craft said the manufacturer was delighted with the Octavia's placing.

“Having toppled Lexus from the top spot in the Top Gear customer satisfaction survey last month, we're delighted with the news that Octavia is the top car in this latest survey,” Craft said.

The Fiat Punto propped up the table after being rated as the worst car overall.

The old Renault Scenic was placed next to bottom below the Fiat Stilo.