Skoda has unveiled an updated iteration of its popular Skoda Octavia model, showcasing subtle design enhancements, technological advancements, and a more eco-friendly interior.
Subtly Revitalized
The alterations to the car’s appearance are noticeable yet unobtrusive. Notable modifications include a redesign of the headlights, now embracing the radiator grille both physically and graphically with greater proximity. The grille itself has undergone subtle changes, featuring more upright slats, contributing to an overall sleeker front end. The alignment of the front end’s lines plays a significant role in creating this impression. Additionally, the rear bumper has been entirely revamped.
The new vehicle exudes a remarkably fresh look, as if the designers applied changes with the lightest of touches. However, the truth is that the design adjustments at the front and rear are profound and remarkably sophisticated. While some elements draw inspiration from the new Superb, the Octavia’s interpretation adds a sportier flair. Reflecting Skoda’s design philosophy, the smaller the model, the more dynamic its design can be. The revamped Octavia is also available in an RS variant.
Sustainability and Better Tech
In the updated design, the headlights can now be equipped with better LED Matrix technology, offering 36 segments instead of 24. This improvement includes new features that let you remove the fog lamps from the bumper. The headlights in this version also boast the modern Crystallinium light element.
Inside the car, you’ll find more eco-friendly materials, and there’s an option for a 13-inch on-board infotainment display. A ten-inch display now comes standard, and the enhanced Octavia also includes dual-zone automatic climate control, faster charging for your devices through USB-C, and an upgraded Kessy keyless lock system.
The new Skoda Octavia comes in four trim levels: Essence, Selection, Sportline, and RS. You can further personalize the interior with one of nine Design Selection trims. Choose from ergonomic seats with AGR certification and a massage function.
Safety gets a boost with new assistance features. Intelligent Park Assist and Remote Park Assist make parking easier, while a new system assesses driver fatigue on long journeys. Unlike before, this system doesn’t just rely on steering wheel movements; it gathers information from various sources to differentiate between short-term inattention and actual fatigue.
The Laura voice assistant now integrates the AI-based ChatGPT chatbot as standard, bringing in a range of new capabilities that go beyond the previous voice commands.
Powerful Engines
Beneath the hood, the upgraded Octavia offers a choice of five power units. The base option features the 85 kW 1.5 TSI engine, available with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission. A more robust 110 kW version of this power unit is also offered, and the variant equipped with the DSG transmission always incorporates mild-hybrid technology.
Moving up the range, there are two two-liter engines: the all-wheel-drive version offers the 2.0 TSI engine with 150 kW and automatic transmission, while the top-tier RS, equipped with DSG transmission, boasts a powerful 195 kW. Additionally, two 2.0 TDI diesel engines are in the lineup: the 85 kW variant comes with a six-speed manual gearbox, and the 110 kW version features a seven-speed DSG.
