Škoda Octavia To Receive Upgrades
Škoda Auto is updating the hatchback and estate versions of its iconic Octavia. With more than 7 million units sold, it is by far the brand’s best-selling model. Its fourth modern generation has now been given a freshened look that includes a revised Škoda grille and new second-generation LED Matrix beam headlights. Customers benefit from even more comprehensive standard equipment like a 10-inch Digital Display or dual-zone Climatronic. On top of that, the share of sustainable materials inside the car has increased. Further safety and assistance systems enhance active and passive safety and a new range structure provides additional individualisation options.
In addition to new and sustainable materials for the seats, dashboard and door panels, a 10‑inch Digital Display now comes as standard on selected model variants. The familiar 10‑inch Virtual Cockpit, introduced at the launch of the fourth-generation Octavia, remains on offer. A 13‑inch infotainment display is available as an option for the first time on the Octavia. The AI-based ChatGPT chatbot will be integrated into the Laura voice assistant as standard. The integration of ChatGPT into the Laura voice assistant introduces a variety of new capabilities that go far beyond the previous voice commands.
Intelligent Park Assist and Remote Park Assist also make their Octavia debuts. The engine line-up consists of two 1.5 TSI petrol engines, optionally available with mild-hybrid technology, two power-boosted 2.0 TSI petrol engines and two diesels. Outputs range from 116 PS (85 kW) to 265 PS (195 kW). Moreover, Škoda Auto has further extended its comprehensive portfolio of active and passive safety features: a new Attention and Drowsiness Assist now uses a wide range of data and parameters to assess driver behaviour. In addition, the updated Octavia comes with up to 10 airbags.
Škoda’s best-seller and its success story
The modern Škoda Octavia has been the Czech car maker’s mainstay and customer favourite ever since production began 27 years ago in 1996. Its four modern generations to date have attracted more than seven million customers across more than 60 markets with their spaciousness, state-of-the-art technology, outstanding level of safety and excellent value for money. The Octavia is also highly regarded by the international media. For example, the fourth generation was the European Car of the Year finalist in 2021 and won the Swiss Car of the Year in the same year.
The updated Octavia offers nine Design Selections for the interior, which are marked by an increased use of sustainable materials. For the first time, the Octavia is available with a 13-inch central infotainment display. USB-C ports offer three times more charging power, now providing 45 watts. The Kessy keyless entry system has undergone improvements for more convenient opening and locking. The AI-based ChatGPT chatbot will later be integrated into the Laura voice assistant as standard.
ChatGPT integration, new displays and more comprehensive equipment
The updated Octavia comes with even more comprehensive standard equipment, including a free-standing central 10-inch infotainment display in combination with a 10-inch Digital Display. In a first for the model series, a 13-inch display is available as an option. The AI-based ChatGPT chatbot will be integrated into the Laura voice assistant as standard. This integration introduces a variety of new capabilities that go far beyond the previous voice commands.
A dual-zone Climatronic system is now standard on all models, and from the Selection trim level upwards the interior includes a 15‑watt Phone Box. This offers inductive fast-charging of smartphones as well as a cooling function. USB-C ports now deliver an output of 45 watts and thus three times more charging power than before. For the first time in the Octavia, the upgraded Kessy keyless vehicle access system automatically unlocks or locks the vehicle as soon as the driver enters or leaves an area within 1.5 metres of the car while carrying the key.
New upholstery and decorative trims
The interior of the updated Škoda Octavia comes with new upholstery, trim and door panel designs. Škoda uses sustainable materials in some of the nine Design Selections, which are clustered around the four trim levels SE Technology, SE L, SportLine and vRS. Examples include recycled fabrics in the Lodge and Sportline Design Selections and sustainably treated leather in the Suite Design Selection. The latter’s perforated leather is available in the colours Black and Cognac, marking a first for the Octavia. It is tanned using sustainable materials, including coffee husks, to replace traditional chemicals. The ergonomic front seats of this optional Design Selection also have an AGR (Healthy Back Campaign) seal of approval as well as a ventilation and massage function. In another first for the Octavia, Unique Dark Chrome trim elements are used in the interior and on the steering wheel which now features the new, two-dimensional Škoda logo.
New Simply Clever features
The revised Octavia also introduces new Simply Clever features. An optional automatic retractable luggage compartment cover can be fitted to the estate to make access to the cargo area easier. A dedicated storage box to hold rear passengers’ bags, cups and bottles is also making its debut. The multifunction pocket in the luggage compartment now has two variable hooks. The optional tablet holder on the back of the front seats is now also available for the sports seats. The ice scraper in the fuel filler flap and the optional umbrella in the front door are now made from sustainable materials. The hand brush in the dedicated front door compartment also remains part of the standard equipment.
