The fourth-generation Skoda Octavia is set to be a game changer for the company as it ushers in new technologies, efficiency, practicality and a bold new design that is bound to turn heads. Having said that, the Octavia is Skoda’s bestselling model globally so there is a lot riding on the success of this new model.
The new Skoda Octavia is larger than the outgoing model and boasts of a bold new design that is enhanced by the razor-sharp front apron, narrower headlights that feature LED technology, shallow roof rails, LED tail lights and LED brake lights. It has a chiselled look that gives it a sporty edge and the 19-inch rims definitely enhance its visual appeal.
In the newly designed interior, the Octavia offers a new two-spoke steering wheel, which gets new control buttons on the multifunction variant that also include knurled scroll wheels that gives the driver access to 14 different functions. The modular dashboard is multi-layered and gets a free standing central display. The materials used are of a fine quality and there are dashes of chrome on board to give it an elite upmarket look. You also get ambient lighting with up to 30 different colours to choose from.
For the first time in the Octavia, Ergo seats are available as an option and offer an electric massage function. In the top trim level, they can also be ventilated. The optional head-up display is another first for a Skoda. It projects the most important information such as speed, navigation, detected traffic signs and activated driver assistance systems directly onto the windscreen. The Skoda Octavia also comes with acoustic side windows at the front, which reduce road noise in the cabin even further. Tri-zone Climatronic also makes its debut in the Octavia as does the virtual cockpit.
Skoda is offering the Octavia with a slew of engine options including a plug-in-hybrid variant, however for the Indian market we expect the Octavia to come with a 1.5 TSI petrol engine featuring mild hybrid technology and will be paired with a DSG transmission. The engine should put out close to 150 PS of power, however the actual figure will only be known closer to the date of launch.
While the exact launch date for the Skoda Octavia in India is yet to be confirmed and could have been delayed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we do expect the company to launch the car by the early of 2021. It is likely to be priced in the INR 18-22 lakh range depending on the variant and if you are looking for a great executive level luxury car, this might just be the ride worth waiting for!