Skoda Octavia facelift likely to launch in July 2017

Octavia, a popular premium sedan from Skoda’s production line is all set to get fresh upgrades this year. It is believed that the new model might be launched in the country in July 2017. Changes will be limited to cosmetic upgrades, while mechanically it will continue to be powered by existing engine options. Reports indicate that production for the current model has been stopped and the facelifted version will soon begin production at the existing facility.

Speaking of changes, the 2017 Skoda Octavia will feature a new butterfly grille, new LED-powered tail light cluster lamps and a redesigned bumper with wider air intakes and new fog lamps. At the global unveiling last year, the new Octavia featured split design headlamps. However we are doubtful about its inclusion in the India-bound model this year. As for features, the vehicle might get a 9.2-inch infotainment system, climate control and memory setting. Though, the international-bound model gets a heated steering wheel, we might not be getting it here.

Under the hood, the vehicle will continue to be powered by a 1.4 TSI petrol which comes mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, while the 1.8 TSI petrol will come mated to a 7-speed DSG and 2.0 TDI diesel will get a 6-speed automatic. The new model surely looks more aggressive than before, but it is to be seen how well the automaker prices this product in India, given the price-sensitive nature of our market.