This is the updated Skoda Octavia: all the highlights at a glance
Design revamped Skoda Octavia
The revamped Skoda Octavia gets a modified grille, along with LED headlight units. The new model generation also comes with the latest LED matrix lighting, which provides 40 percent additional light output without blinding oncoming traffic. In front and rear, updated bumpers stand out. For optimal airflow, air curtains are integrated into the front bumper. At the rear, notice that the type name is written out in the new Skoda house style. In the process, the C-shaped LED taillights have been modified. Dynamic turn lights are included with certain versions. New, streamlined wheel designs perfectly complement the stylish looks.
ChatGPT integration
In the Octavia, the 10-inch Virtual Cockpit and a freestanding 10-inch infotainment touch display are standard. A 13-inch version is optionally available. The ChatGPT chatbot is expected to be integrated into the Laura voice assistant by mid-2024. This offers considerably more features than voice control alone. Starting with the Selection equipment level, a 15 Watt Phone box is included in standard equipment. The USB C ports are rated at 45 W, allowing smartphones to charge three times faster than before.
New materials
In the Octavia, Skoda uses recycled materials for upholstery fabrics and trim elements, for example. The leather upholstery in the deluxe versions is sustainably tanned by using coffee bean husks instead of chemicals.
Also “Simply Clever?
In the updated Skoda Octavia, such conveniences as the automatic luggage compartment cover (optional) and the central storage box in the rear with space for bags, bottles and cups debut. The practical tablet holders for the rear passengers are now also available for Octavia’s with sport seats. The ice scraper in the tank lid and the optional umbrella in the front door are made of innovative materials.
Mild-hybrid: 1.5 eTSI
A manual gearbox 1.5 TSI turbocharged gasoline engine with an output of 85 kW (115 hp) is at the base of the engine range for the new Octavia. Like the 110 kW (150 hp) version, it also comes as a 1.5 eTSI with 48V mild-hybrid technology. Thanks in part to a lithium-ion battery, the Octavia can “sail” with the combustion engine turned off. ACT+, the system that turns off two cylinders at low load, further enhances the efficiency of the 1.5 TSI engines. A DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission is standard on mild-hybrid versions.
Safety
Like the new Superb and Kodiaq, the updated Octavia is equipped with a Driver Alert system. This system uses a smart algorithm to determine distraction and fatigue. This not only processes information from the electromechanical steering system, but also from Lane Assist, for example. The system has three alert levels: recommendation, warning and escalation.
With the new, intelligent Park Assist (available with the DSG transmission), the Octavia can automatically park in parking spaces parallel and perpendicular to the roadway. In addition to steering movements, the system also takes over braking and maintaining the correct speed from the driver. The car stops automatically when there is an obstacle. With Remote Park Assist, the Octavia can even park without a driver on board. Indeed, the MyŠkoda app allows the driver to communicate with the car via Bluetooth. By selecting the desired maneuver and direction of travel in the app, the Octavia parks in the designated parking space. In doing so, the maximum speed is 9.5 mph.
The high safety level of the renewed Octavia is further emphasized by the maximum score of five stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests, even in the 2022 test procedure with even stricter requirements.
From second quarter in the Netherlands
The updated Skoda Octavia and Octavia Combi are expected on the Dutch market in the second quarter of this year. There is then a choice of several Design Selections, including the sporty-tinged Sportline. More details on the composition of the range and the corresponding prices will be announced ahead of the Dutch market launch.
