In reply to kieran b:
For your budget of around 3k, try and get as low a mileage 1.9tdi as you can lay your hands on - particularly if you're going to to a decent mileage. You're probably looking at a 54/55 plate model.
The later PD diesel engines have had some issues with particulate filters. Steer clear of the DSG gearbox.
In terms of creature comforts, whilst the basic S models are adequate, the Ambiente / SE models are worth the extra, and the Elegance models are really rather nice. I could get my bike in to the back of the old Octavia estate without taking the wheels off.
As I no longer do big mileages I opted for one of the new 1.4 tsi petrol engines. Smoooth quick and quiet, but thistier than the old diesel. On the plus side I was able to get an petrol Elegance for less than the cost of an SE diesel - but that's because they had a special 0% VAT deal on elegance models at the time! From 55 plate onwards, they increased the wheelbase by around 50mm compared to my old car.
I'm a happy Skoda owner of more than 10 years.