Next-gen Skoda Octavia to debut in India in Q2 2021
Skoda India is expected to bring the new Skoda Octavia, the fourth generation since Volkswagen bought out the Czech brand, to our market in the first half of 2021. The executive sedan was expected to debut here in 2020, but the COVID19 pandemic has delayed timelines for Skoda India's launches. The company seems to be currently focused on bringing its first MQB-A0-IN-based product, the Vision IN SUV to market first. The Octavia is expected to remain a CKD offering given the low volumes of the segment it operates in.
Internationally, the Octavia is offered with a flurry of engines options, including a new plug-in hybrid version. In India, we expect to see the 1.5-litre TSI with 150PS/250 Nm and the 2.0-litre motor with 190PS/320 Nm. Both are expected to pair with the seven-speed DCT. The smaller engine could also get its fuel-saving tech like the 48V mild-hybrid setup and cylinder deactivation.
Aside from its sharper looks, this generation of the Octavia has also grown in size. It's 19mm longer now at 4,689 mm and is 15mm wider at 1,829 mm. The wheelbase is 2,686mm and wheel sizes upto 19-inches will be available.
Notable features on the inside are a new layered design theme with contrasting elements. A new floating infotainment screen(in four sizes) and a two-spoke steering wheel with knurled elements are other highlights alongside other optional equipment like special fabric sports seats, three-zone air-conditioning and a head-up display. The infotainment and the Virtual Cockpit instrument cluster are two 10-inch units with new layouts and controls. The DSG gear-lever has also been replaced by a rocker switch, given the addition of drive-by-wire tech. Space has grown too, there is now more knee room and 600 l of boot space.
The Skoda Octavia will compete with the likes of the Honda Civic and Hyundai Elantra. As for the Octavia RS, Skoda will eventually bring the new version to India after the launch of the standard car. This will most likely be in its petrol-only iteration.