2017 Skoda Octavia – A comparison with the older generation

Skoda’s Octavia sedan is an important product for the company in India. In order to continue with its popularity and offer more to potential customers, Skoda will be launching the new Octavia sometime by mid-2017. The much due upgrade is the first one since its inception in the country way back in 2013. Changes will be limited to cosmetic and feature upgrades, while mechanically it will continue to be powered by existing engine options. 

The new Octavia will be offered with five petrol and four diesel engine options which will range between 1.0-litre to 2.0-litre and will generate power outputs between 84bhp to 184bhp. Along with six-speed manual, the vehicle might also be offered with a six/seven-speed DSG. As for the Indian market, we might get a 2.0-litre petrol and a 2.0-litre diesel engine option. It is to be seen if the company will also offer a 1.4-litre petrol engine in its base trims. 

As seen in images, the interior of the new model is expected to come with a new 9.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system borrowed from the Superb sedan and a revised instrument cluster. For convenience, it offers a heated steering and folding tables for rear occupants. Skoda has also increased the number of driving aids by offering predictive pedestrian protection, blind spot detection and rear traffic alert.

Speaking about safety, the vehicle will offer airbags and ABS with EBD as standard during launch. The exterior does not get major upgrades except for new split headlamp units, revised grille, tweaked tail lamps and new wheels. The bumpers have also been revised with wide intake and new fog lamps. The new model will be introduced in India via the CKD route and more details about the vehicle will be known in the coming months. Though the new model is offered with limited upgrades, owing to its popularity and impressive performance, it will continue to find takers in the country.