New-gen Škoda Octavia revealed as debut nears
Škoda has released new images of its fourth-generation Octavia ahead of its launch this summer.
Due to be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show, which was cancelled due to the epidemic, the Octavia estate and hatchback were initially unveiled last month in their sportiest vRS iV guise. This will feature a plug-in hybrid – marking Škoda’s first use of a PHEV in a sporty, top-of-the-range model – featuring a 150hp, 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine, married up with an 114hp electric motor, giving a total 245hp. However, depending on the market, there will also be a 204hp iV plug-in hybrid plus petrol and diesel versions, including e-TEC mild hybrid variants.
Alongside the new powertrains, the fourth-gen hatch is also more spacious than before, thanks to being 19mm longer and 15mm wider, with an extra 10 litres of boot space, giving a total of 600 litres.
Exterior updates bring new headlights with LED technology and alloys up to 19 inches.
Details of the interior are yet to be revealed but Škoda promises striking styling with a two-spoke steering wheel, multi-level dashboard, LED ambient lighting, plus new, soft-touch materials to bring a more premium feel. It will also offer latest connectivity features and assistance systems.
These include a new Collision Avoidance Assist that provides steering assistance to help avoid collisions. Another new system, the Turn Assist, can detect and warn drivers of imminent collisions in the face of oncoming traffic at an intersection. The Exit Warning system lets the driver know if another vehicle or a cyclist is approaching from behind when opening the car door while the Local Traffic Warning function automatically flags up hazards in the car’s immediate vicinity, such as a tailback ahead.
Four infotainment systems are offered, including the top-of-the-line Columbus version. Features include an LTE connection through the eSIM, which ensures permanent access to the latest Škoda Connect Mobile Online Services, such as eCall, online-based infotainment applications and comprehensive remote vehicle access functions. In addition to the Phone Box for inductive smartphone charging, there are up to five USB-C ports on board, including an optional one in the roof console above the rear-view mirror.
Pricing and specification details for the Octavia hatch and estate will be announced in the run-up to the launch.
Natalie Middleton
Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for nearly 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day. Natalie edits all the Fleet World websites and newsletters, and loves to hear about any latest industry news - or gossip.
