Unveiling the Enhanced Skoda Octavia: A Blend of Power and Elegance

Discover the facelifted Skoda Octavia with its sharper design, 261 HP engine, and cutting-edge tech, making it the perfect choice for the discerning driver.

On Valentine’s Day, Skoda unveiled the updated Octavia, a vehicle that has consistently been a top seller for the Czech automaker. This latest version of the Octavia features slight modifications to its exterior design and enhancements in its technological offerings, while still maintaining its traditional sedan and estate models.

The revised Octavia lineup initially presents a variety of powertrain options, including standard gasoline engines, mild-hybrid systems, and diesel engines. There’s an anticipation for a plug-in hybrid variant to join the lineup in the future. Notably, the sporty RS version now comes exclusively with a gasoline engine, offering increased power, a more dynamic appearance, and an upgraded suite of features.

As the fourth iteration of the Octavia was launched in 2019, this mid-cycle refresh aims to align it with the latest iterations of Skoda’s larger models, the Superb and Kodiaq. The refresh includes an update to the headlight design, now with an option for LED Matrix technology dubbed «Crystallinium,» and a redesigned front bumper that features larger side air intakes.

The design refresh extends to the rear bumper and introduces new LED taillight designs. The Sportline version of the Octavia replaces chrome accents with gloss-black details, benefits from a lowered sports suspension, and can be equipped with an optional set of 19-inch alloy wheels.

The interior of the updated Octavia boasts a standard 10-inch digital dashboard and a 10-inch infotainment screen, with the option to upgrade to a larger 13-inch touchscreen. The vehicle also offers new sustainable options for interior upholstery and trim materials. The latest advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) have been incorporated, enhancing safety features. Noteworthy among these is the forthcoming remote park assist and an AI-powered Chat GPT voice assistant.

The Octavia RS sets itself apart from the standard models with its aggressive front and rear bumpers, triangular front air intakes, dual exhaust outlets, and sport-oriented interior features. These include bucket seats in the front, suede upholstery with red stitching, carbon-style trim elements, aluminum pedals, and an RS-specific three-spoke steering wheel.

In a departure from its predecessor, the refreshed RS model is available solely with a turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI engine. This engine boasts an output of 261 hp (195 kW / 265 PS), aligning it with the performance of the updated VW Golf GTI. This powerhouse is the most potent engine ever placed in an Octavia and is paired with a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission. Power is delivered to the front wheels through an electronically-controlled limited-slip differential. The RS model also features a sports suspension that is 15 mm (0.6 inches) lower than that of other models, and a sports exhaust system that enhances the vehicle’s acoustic profile.

The broader Octavia range continues to offer a selection of non-electrified gasoline, mild-hybrid gasoline, and diesel engines. It is expected that the Skoda Octavia iV, with an improved plug-in hybrid system, will soon join the lineup, promising a substantial boost in electric-only range. The future of the CNG-powered Octavia G-Tec post-refresh remains uncertain.

Source: Skoda