Škoda AUTO CEO, Bernhard Maier, said, "For Škoda, the Octavia is of immense importance. That's why we've completely redeveloped this car. The outcome is the best Octavia of all time - it is even more spacious, practical and even safer than ever before. By unveiling its latest generation just in time for its 60th anniversary, we have taken a major step forward. The Octavia has significantly contributed to the positive development of the company and the brand. Over the last six decades. I am very confident that the new generation will play its part in maintaining this positive development."
Sixty years after production of the Octavia started in 1959, Škoda is now unveiling the best model yet since its re-launch in 1996. The fourth-generation Octavia will continue to be the brand's heart and engine as well as its top volume model. With more than 6.5 million units produced, it is the bestselling Škoda ever and has been a real icon for many years, both in its Czech home country as well as in numerous other markets around the world. The reasons for this are obvious: it features a modern design and modern technology, it is efficient, extremely practical and high-quality; it offers exceptional amounts of space and superior value for money.
The new Škoda Octavia has grown further and, thanks to new proportions and the latest developments in Škoda's design language, is even more emotive and dynamic than its successful predecessor. At a length of 4,689 mm, the hatchback is 19 mm and the Combi 22 mm longer than the third-generation model. Its width has increased by 15 mm. The Combi's boot capacity, which is the largest in the segment, has increased by 30 l to 640 l. The hatchback has a capacity of 600 l - 10 l more than the previous generation. The new front apron and the razor-sharp, narrower, new headlights are a visual delight and feature LED technology for low beam, high beam and daytime running lights as standard. The tail lights, brake lights and fog lights make use of LED technology as well. The newly designed, shallow roof rails emphasise the elongated silhouette of the Škoda Octavia Combi, while the hatchback looks almost like a coupé. Alloy wheels measuring up to 19 inches lend all of the model variants a powerful appearance. Crystal Black, Lava Blue and Titanium Blue have been newly added to the range of paint finishes; a Chrome and a Dynamic package are optional extras.
New interior concept and a multi-level dashboard
In the newly designed interior, the Octavia offers a new two-spoke steering wheel, which can be heated as an option and - if ordered as a multifunction variant - comes with new control buttons and knurled scroll wheels, allowing drivers to operate a total of 14 different functions without removing their hands. The dashboard, which has also been redesigned, is modular and has been arranged in different levels, featuring a large, free-standing central display. The centre console is elegant, uncluttered and adorned with chrome details - as are the new door trims and handles. New and soft-touch materials lend the interior a premium look, while the new LED ambient lighting provides a special visual touch for the front doors and dashboard by indirectly illuminating them in a choice of ten different colours - even in a variety of colours if desired. Coordinated lighting scenarios can also be selected.
Head-up display making its debut and particularly back-friendly Ergo seats
Optional, particularly back-friendly Ergo seats, which among other things offer an electric massage function, are available for the first time in a Škoda. In the top version, they can also be ventilated and bear the seal of approval of the German Campaign for Healthier Backs. The optional head-up display is another first for a Škoda. It projects the most important information such as speed, navigation, detected traffic signs and activated driver assistance systems directly onto the - optionally heated - windscreen. The 4.2-inch, multifunction Maxi DOT 16-colour display comes as standard. Tri-zone Climatronic makes its debut in the Škoda Octavia. Using the optional keyless vehicle entry system (KESSY), now any one of the car's four doors can be opened first. The standard equipment also includes electric side windows and an electromechanical parking brake. The Škoda Octavia is now also available with acoustic side windows at the front, which reduce road noise in the cabin even further.
DSG with shift-by-wire technology and optional full LED Matrix headlights
The new Octavia is the first Škoda ever to use shift-by-wire technology for operating the DSG, which electronically transmits the driver's gear selection to the transmission. In place of the familiar DSG lever, there is therefore a new control module located in the centre console with a small rocker switch for selecting the drive modes as well as a button for the parking mode. Innovative full LED matrix headlights are available as an option, allowing the driver to leave the high beam on at all times without dazzling other road users. Full LED tail lights featuring crystalline elements and dynamic indicators are another option. A whole range of new safety systems such as Collision Avoidance Assist, Turn Assist, Exit Warning and the local Traffic Warning function are also making their debut at Škoda. Other new features for the Octavia include Area View, Side Assist and Predictive Cruise Control, which - together with the updated version of Traffic Sign Recognition and the further improved Lane Assist, as well as Traffic Jam Assist and Emergency Assist - forms the comprehensive Travel Assist system. Using Hands-on Detect, this system also checks whether the driver is touching the steering wheel consistently. Up to nine airbags, including a driver knee airbag and rear side airbags, protect occupants in the event of a collision.
New alternative powertrains and efficient engines
Never before has the Škoda Octavia been as efficient, eco-friendly and available with as many alternative powertrains as in its fourth generation. For the first time, the line-up includes a plug-in hybrid, the Octavia iV. Some of the petrol engines, which have been further optimised, are now equipped with innovative mild hybrid technology, while the diesel engines come from the latest EVO generation and emit up to 80 per cent less nitrogen oxide. The wide range of powertrains deliver from 81 kW (110 PS) to 150 kW (204 PS). With 17.7 kg of natural gas (CNG) in its tanks, the Octavia G-TEC can cover up to 523 km in its eco-friendly and efficient CNG mode. In the Škoda Octavia iV, a 1.4 TSI petrol engine and an electric motor deliver a combined power output of 150 kW (204 PS). With a capacity of 37 Ah providing 13 kWh of energy, the high-voltage lithium-ion battery allows for an all-electric range of up to 55 km in the WLTP cycle. The eTEC variants fitted with latest EVO-generation 1.0 TSI or 1.5 TSI petrol engines feature mild hybrid technology when equipped with DSG. Using a 48-volt belt-driven starter motor and a 48-volt lithium-ion battery, it is possible to recover brake energy, support the combustion engine by providing it with an electric boost, and to coast with the engine completely switched off. The EVO diesel engines apply a new 'twin dosing' exhaust gas treatment, where AdBlue® is injected specifically in front of the two catalytic converters that are arranged one after the other. Dynamic Chassis Control including Driving Mode Select, which is optional, now comes with slider controls within the different driving modes, allowing the driver to change individual parameters such as the suspension, damping and steering characteristics or the operation of the DSG to suit their preferences.
Latest infotainment systems and a further developed Virtual Cockpit
The Octavia offers a choice of four infotainment systems from the latest generation with screens measuring from 8.25 to 10 inches. Some of them can be operated using gesture control or by voice via the Laura Škoda Digital Assistant. The top-of-the-range Columbus infotainment system can - for the first time - display the navigation system's maps in a different level of zoom than the 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit (which, by the way, has also been further improved, making it even more user-friendly). This new function can be adjusted via an innovative touch slider located below the display, which can also be used to control the volume. Thanks to a built-in eSIM, the Octavia is always online; access to the latest Škoda Connect mobile online services is therefore always possible. These include eCall, which is mandatory in the EU, comprehensive remote vehicle access and infotainment apps backed by online data. The car features up to five USB-C ports for charging or connecting media devices and USB sticks, one of which can optionally be housed in the overhead console above the rear-view mirror. Older devices with a USB-A 3.0 port can easily be connected using the USB-C to USB-A 3.0 adapter from the Škoda Genuine Accessories range. Furthermore, smartphones can be charged inductively, using the optional Phone Box. Finally, the acoustically optimised interior and the new optional CANTON sound system ensure a perfect audio experience.
Innovative Simply Clever features
For diesel cars, the range of the brand-typical Simply Clever features now also includes a convenient filler tube for AdBlue®, enabling it to be filled up using a lorry pump nozzle too. In the rear, two smartphone storage pockets on the front seatbacks are making their debut at Škoda. The Sleep package for the back seat is now also an optional extra for the Škoda Octavia Combi. In addition, new retractable sun blinds for the rear side windows make it possible to block out the light. There is a multifunction storage pocket below the boot cover in both the hatchback and the Octavia Combi; the latter will also feature an automatically retractable load cover. The storage compartment with an umbrella and hand brush in the front doors is new. The funnel integrated into the lid of the windscreen washer tank is yet another new feature in the Octavia.
Exterior: improved proportions and even more space
The fourth generation of the Octavia is bigger and, thanks to the new proportions and Škoda design language, even more emotive and dynamic than its successful predecessor. The new front apron, narrower headlights and newly designed, shallow roof rails emphasise the elongated silhouette of the Škoda Octavia Combi, while the hatchback looks as elegant as a coupé. All in all, the new Škoda Octavia radiates self-confidence and quality.
Oliver Stefani, Head of Škoda AUTO Design, said, "With the new Octavia, in addition to the emotive and sculptural elements of the current Škoda design language, we paid particular attention to elegant and dynamic proportions whilst further improving the amount of interior space. The elongated silhouette and the large wheels measuring up to 19 inches lend the Octavia a powerful appearance."
At 4,689 mm, the new Škoda Octavia Combi is 22 mm longer than its predecessor, whilst the hatchback has gained 19 mm (also measuring 4,689 mm in length). At 1,829 mm, they are both 15 mm wider; their wheelbases measure 2,686 mm. The Octavia's increased length and width bring out its self-assured appearance. What's more, the familiar, impressive amount of interior space is even more generous, turning the Škoda icon into the most amazing miracle of space yet. Having gained 5 mm, the ample kneeroom in the rear is now 78 mm. The Combi's boot capacity, which is the largest in the segment, has increased by another 30 l to 640 l. The hatchback can now hold 600 l - 10 l more than before.
New Škoda design language with sculptural elements and clear surfaces
The new front apron and the razor-sharp, narrower, new headlights featuring LED technology for the low beam, high beam and daytime running lights as standard are a visual delight. The tail lights, brake lights and fog lights also feature LED technology. The newly designed, shallow roof rails emphasise the elongated silhouette of the Octavia Combi, while the hatchback looks almost like a coupé. The latest developments in Škoda's design language are characterised by sculptural elements, precise lines and modern, clear surfaces, and lend the car an authentic as well as dynamic appearance, creating a high-quality look.
Excellent aerodynamics, reducing CO2 emissions and fuel consumption
The new design not only sharpens the Škoda Octavia's visual appearance, it also enables excellent aerodynamics. With a drag coefficient (cd) from 0.24 for the hatchback and from 0.26 for the Combi, the new Škoda Octavia is one of the most aerodynamic cars in the world in its segment. The improved aerodynamics also result in fewer CO2 emissions and lower fuel consumption. Alloy wheels with a diameter of up to 19 inches (665 mm with the tyres fitted) lend all of the model variants a powerful appearance. Crystal Black, Lava Blue and Titanium Blue have been newly added to the range of paint finishes; a Chrome and a Dynamic package are optional extras for the Ambition and Style trim levels.
Interior: new design improves ergonomics and appearance
Škoda has redesigned the interior concept of its brand icon. In addition to the free-standing, central screen and new, even higher-quality materials, the Octavia is the first Škoda production model to be equipped with a new multi-level dashboard and a newly designed two-spoke steering wheel. A novel touch control slider below the 10-inch variant of the central display, selected one-touch keys for important vehicle functions as well as buttons and knurled scroll wheels on the multifunction steering wheel improve ergonomics and simplify operation.
The Škoda designers have provided the fourth-generation Octavia with an all-new interior. The new steering wheel has been reduced to two spokes, can be heated as an option, and features a chrome trim. If ordered as a multifunction variant, the control buttons have been completely rearranged and, together with new chrome knurled scroll wheels, make operation even easier. A total of 14 different functions can be carried out using the buttons and wheels, including - for the first time -activating the optional heating for the steering wheel and operating Travel Assist. A three-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel is available as an option.
Multi-level dashboard
The dashboard is modular and has been arranged in different levels. Below the large and free-standing central display, a colour-contrasting area cites the line of the Škoda grille. In the lower part, there is the new centre console, which is characterised by an elegant and very clear design. The one-touch keys for important vehicle functions such as Driving Mode Select or Park Assist have been moved up below the central display. Chrome elements adorn the centre console and the door trims, which feature door handles in a new design. The front door trims are now partially perforated, the operating button for the electrically adjustable wing mirrors is now located on the armrest next to the buttons for the electric windows. Both the doors and dashboard are made of new and soft-touch materials to create a particularly high-quality look.
New options for the LED ambient lighting
The new LED ambient lighting in the Škoda Octavia is a visual delight, indirectly illuminating the front doors and dashboard. The driver can choose from a total of ten different colours and can even assign differing colours to the dashboard and footwell. In addition, the various colours are bundled and categorised by symbols, which can be used to create coordinated light scenarios such as dawn, sun or clouds. The ambient lighting also includes the projection of the Škoda lettering on the ground next to the front doors when they are opened.
Comfort & safety: head-up display and ergonomic seats make their debut
Škoda has equipped the new Octavia with numerous safety and comfort features usually reserved for higher-tier vehicles. The head-up display, for example, that projects the most important information directly onto the windscreen in clear view of the driver, is making its debut at Škoda. Other new features include various optional ergonomic seats, the top-of-the-range variants being ventilated and bearing the seal of approval of the German Campaign for Healthier Backs.
The Škoda Octavia's new head-up display is a first at Škoda. It is available as an optional extra from the Style trim level upwards. This innovative feature increases both safety and comfort by projecting the most important information such as speed, navigation, detected traffic signs and activated driver assistance systems directly onto the windscreen, in clear view of the driver. This allows them to read such information without taking their eyes off the road. The Maxi DOT multifunction display comes as standard in every Octavia, presenting information on a 4.2-inch screen in up to 16 colours.
Particularly back-friendly seats as an option
For the first time, Škoda is offering particularly back-friendly seats as an option in the new Octavia. They are available from the Ambition trim level upwards and come with electronically adjustable lumbar support as well as an electric massage function, their length and height can be adjusted and the seat surface extended - even in their entry-level variant; heating is optional. Sports seats are also optional and are covered in a particularly breathable ThermoFlux fabric. The Ergo seats will later also be available with Alcantara® covers - for the sporty RS models too - as well as with Alcantara®/leather covers for the Octavia Scout and will then also include electric adjustment with a memory function. The top version of the ergonomic seats bears the seal of approval of the German Campaign for Healthier Backs, comes with a ventilation function and perforated leather upholstery as well as heating as standard.
Tri-zone Climatronic air conditioning and KESSY for all doors
The new edition of the Czech car manufacturer's bestselling model is, depending on the trim level, equipped with a manual or the dual-zone Climatronic air conditioning system as standard. Tri-zone Climatronic is available as a new optional extra. The heated windscreen is another option and uses a thin, conductive silver film. Providing even more comfort in future is the optional KESSY keyless vehicle entry system, which allows any one of the Octavia's four doors to be opened first. All of the new models now come with a convenient button for starting the engine, four electric side windows and - making its debut at Škoda - an electromechanical parking brake. The Škoda Octavia is now also available with acoustic side windows at the front, which reduce road noise in the cabin even further.
New technology: shift-by-wire, full LED Matrix headlights as well as numerous new safety assistance systems
Škoda has equipped the fourth-generation Octavia with numerous new technologies and innovative assistance systems that are making their debut in a production vehicle of the Czech brand. This includes shift-by-wire technology for operating the DSG as well as new systems for further increasing safety, such as Collision Avoidance Assist, Turn Assist and Exit Warning. Yet more premieres for the Octavia include full LED Matrix headlights, Side Assist and Emergency Assist as well as Predictive Cruise Control and Area View.
The new Octavia is the first Škoda ever to use shift-by-wire technology to operate its DSG. The gear selector is no longer connected to the gearbox mechanically. Instead, it relays which gear has been chosen electronically. This saves space and offers new design options. In place of the familiar DSG lever, the centre console has therefore been provided with a new control module featuring a small rocker switch for selecting the drive modes - R (reverse), N (neutral) and D/S (drive/sport) - as well as a button for the parking mode, P.
Full LED Matrix headlights as an option
The latest edition of the brand's bestseller can now also be ordered with innovative full LED matrix headlights, each containing a module for low beam and high beam. Each module features 22 LEDs which can be controlled individually to generate a light beam consisting of several segments. This allows drivers to have the high beam on at all times without dazzling other road users. The camera on the windscreen detects vehicles as well as people and objects reflecting the light, and the intelligent lighting technology then automatically turns off individual segments of the light beam. The headlights also provide different lighting modes for various situations and weather conditions, such as driving in the city, on the motorway or in the rain - and they feature an animated Coming/Leaving Home function. This automatically turns parts of the headlights and optional full LED tail lights on and off in a specified sequence when getting into or out of the car. The full LED tail lights have also been provided with illuminated crystalline elements and dynamic indicators.
Innovative assistance systems
The fourth-generation Octavia sees the introduction of several new assistance systems, some of them are making their debut in a Škoda model. The new Collision Avoidance Assist supports the driver by actively increasing the steering moment in the event of an impending collision with a pedestrian, cyclist or another vehicle - ideally preventing the accident with a controlled evasive manoeuvre. At junctions, Turn Assist can detect oncoming traffic at an early stage when turning left, warn the driver or even automatically stop the vehicle. The Exit Warning system lets the driver know if another vehicle or a cyclist is approaching from behind when opening the car door. Another new feature is the local Traffic Warning function, which automatically warns of traffic hold-ups in the car's immediate surroundings, such as the end of a traffic jam.
New and improved assistance systems in the Octavia
Many other assistance systems are making their debut in the Octavia or have been updated. Area View provides an overview of the car's immediate surroundings when parking or manoeuvring. Side Assist warns the driver of vehicles approaching from behind or that are in the car's blind spot up to 70 m away, thus also effectively helping to prevent potential accidents on motorways and dual carriageways. In the city, Front Assist including Predictive Pedestrian and Cyclist Protection warns of a potential collision visually, acoustically and by gently applying the brakes, and automatically slows the car down in an emergency.
Predictive Cruise Control is an updated and enhanced version of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). It now automatically adjusts the speed of the car based on the vehicles ahead at speeds of up to 210 km/h. In combination with a DSG, it can even bring the car to a standstill and have it pull away again automatically within up to three seconds. Added to this, the new predictive version also uses images from the camera on the windscreen and data from the navigation system to detect speed restrictions as well as bends, and automatically adjusts the speed in anticipation.
The new ACC, which - together with the updated versions of Traffic Sign Recognition and Lane Assist (now also able to identify road works), as well as Traffic Jam Assist and Emergency Assist - forms the comprehensive Travel Assist system. Using Hands-on Detect, this system also checks - at least every 15 seconds - whether the driver is touching the steering wheel consistently or whether they no longer have control of the vehicle due to a potential medical emergency. If such an emergency occurs, Emergency Assist can bring the car to a stop in its lane. Should it not be possible to prevent an accident from occurring despite the numerous assistance systems, the proactive Crew Protect Assist feature prepares the car as well as its occupants for the impending head-on or rear collision, or even rollover, by automatically closing the windows as well as panoramic roof, and tensioning the seat belts, for example. In the event of a collision, the occupants are also protected by up to nine airbags, including a driver knee airbag and rear side airbags. Following a collision, the Multi-Collision Brake prevents the vehicle from rolling any further in an uncontrolled manner.
Engines: great choice of alternative powertrains
The fourth generation of the Škoda Octavia is not only more economical and eco-friendlier, it also comes with a greater choice of alternative drive systems than ever before. For the first time, there is a plug-in-hybrid variant, the Octavia iV. Some of the petrol engines, which have been further optimised, are now equipped with mild hybrid technology, and the diesel engines come from the latest EVO generation and emit up to 80 per cent less nitrogen oxide. The line-up also includes a variant powered by natural gas (CNG), the Octavia G-TEC. There is a choice of four chassis variants, and of course, the new Octavia is available with all-wheel drive.
Christian Strube, Škoda AUTO Board Member for Technical Development, said, "When we developed the new Octavia, our focus was on lowering fuel consumption as well as CO2 and NOx emissions. In addition to the Octavia G-TEC, which runs on natural gas, we now - for the first time - also offer a plug-in hybrid, the Octavia iV. The Octavia eTEC features new mild hybrid technology, which helps to reduce consumption. And thanks to the application of a new 'twin dosing' method of exhaust gas treatment, the latest EVO-generation diesel engines emit around 80 per cent less nitrogen oxide."
The new Octavia comes with advanced, modern TDI and TSI engines as well as significantly improved aerodynamics, which not only reduces fuel consumption but also exhaust emissions. The SCR exhaust gas treatment now featuring two catalytic converters has been further optimised, which means that nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions generated by the diesel engines from the latest EVO generation have been reduced by up to 80 per cent. Using what is known as 'twin dosing', AdBlue® is specifically injected in front of two SCR catalytic converters that are arranged one after the other. As a result, the EVO engines fulfil the technical preconditions for the future Euro 6d emissions standard.
But that's not it, two TSI petrol engines are celebrating their Škoda premiere - they are also of the latest EVO generation and feature mild hybrid technology - and as another first, the Octavia can now also be ordered as a plug-in hybrid. The wide range of powertrains deliver from 81 kW (110 PS) to 150 kW (204 PS) is complemented by the Octavia G-TEC, which runs on natural gas (CNG). Depending on the engine type, the fourth-generation Octavia can, of course, either be fitted with a manual or DSG transmission, customers can opt for four-wheel drive if desired, and there is a choice of four chassis variants, including Dynamic Chassis Control with Driving Mode Select.
A premiere for the Octavia: plug-in-hybrid drive with a power output of 204 PS
Following in the footsteps of the SUPERB iV, the Octavia iV is the second Škoda model to be available as a plug-in hybrid. This powertrain features a 1.4 TSI petrol engine delivering 115 kW (156 PS) and a 75-kW electric motor. Together, they produce a total power output of 150 kW (204 PS) and have a maximum torque of 350 Nm. The plug-in-hybrid variant has been equipped with a 6-speed DSG. The Octavia iV will be available in any of the trim levels and models except Active and Scout. While the hatchback's boot capacity is 450 l, the Combi can hold 490 l. With a capacity of 37 Ah providing 13 kWh, the high-voltage lithium-ion battery allows for an electric range of up to 55 km in the WLTP cycle. The battery can be recharged conveniently at home from a standard household socket or wall box; the connector for charging the battery is hidden behind a flap in the wing on the driver's side, which can be opened at the push of a button in the door trim. Other differences between the Octavia iV and the variants that are driven solely by a combustion engine include a slightly smaller petrol tank (40 l instead of 45 l), the iV badge on the tailgate and the 10-inch central screen with an iV welcome logo and model-specific displays.
Making their Škoda debut: eTEC engines featuring mild hybrid technology
As the first Škoda to do so, the new Octavia is available in two eTEC variants with mild hybrid technology. When fitted with a 7-speed DSG, the three-cylinder 1.0 TSI producing 81 kW (110 PS) and the four-cylinder 1.5 TSI outputting 110 kW (150 PS) make use of a 48-volt belt-driven starter motor and a 48-volt lithium-ion battery. This makes it possible to recover energy during braking and store it in the battery, support the combustion engine by providing it with an electric boost, and coast with the engine completely switched off. This, in addition to the commonly used stop/start technology, reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions even further. An additional benefit is that the engine can start more quietly and with fewer vibrations. Vehicles featuring mild hybrid technology can be identified by an eTEC badge.
Octavia G-TEC with a range of 523 km in CNG mode
The Octavia is particularly environmentally friendly as a G-TEC, powered by natural gas. Compared to a car running on petrol, the Octavia G-TEC produces yet again around 25 per cent less CO2, significantly less nitrogen oxide (NOx) and no soot particles. The 1.5 TSI engine outputting 96 kW (130 PS) consumes 3.4 to 3.6 kg of natural gas per 100 km in CNG mode and 5.4 l of petrol per 100 km in petrol mode. The total capacity of the three CNG tanks is 17.7 kg, enabling the car to cover up to 523 km. Another 278 km can be covered when also making use of its 9-litre petrol tank, meaning that the Octavia G-TEC can travel more than 800 km without any refuelling stops. The hatchback's boot can hold 455 l, the Combi's boot capacity is 495 l. The G-TEC badge at the rear and a model-specific Virtual Cockpit are the distinguishing features of this natural-gas model.
Four chassis options including Dynamic Chassis Control with Driving Mode Select
Besides the standard chassis, there is a choice of two other options for the Octavia: a 15-mm-lower sports suspension and a Rough Road chassis providing 15 mm more ground clearance. Dynamic Chassis Control, available as an option, constantly adjusts the suspension and damping, and features Driving Mode Select. Using the slider controls within the various driving modes, the driver can now - for the first time - change individual parameters such as the suspension, damping and steering characteristics or the operation of the DSG to suit their preferences. When fitted with Dynamic Chassis Control, all variants are lowered by 10 mm; however, the plug-in-hybrid variant's ground clearance remains unchanged.
Digital technology: modern infotainment and supreme connectivity
The new Škoda Octavia has been equipped with systems from the latest generation of the modular infotainment matrix and offers supreme connectivity. There is a choice of four different infotainment systems with touchscreens measuring up to 10 inches. An innovative touch slider for adjusting the volume or the section of the navigation system's map celebrates its premiere. For the first time, maps can be shown in the central display and in the latest generation of the Virtual Cockpit in different levels of zoom.
There is a choice of four different infotainment systems from Volkswagen Group's latest-generation modular infotainment matrix. Even Swing, the entry-level system, comes with an 8.25-inch touchscreen that can be personalised and with a DAB tuner. Smartphones can be paired via wireless SmartLink technology and Android Auto, Apple CarPlay or MirrorLink™, offering access to infotainment apps such as weather or news apps. To this end, the Octavia is always online thanks to its in-built eSIM. Both the Bolero infotainment system, for which a navigation function can be activated at a later stage, and the Amundsen navigation system have a 10-inch touchscreen. They can be operated using gesture control or verbally using the Laura Škoda Digital Assistant, who understands fluently spoken complete sentences in six different languages. The maps are updated online, Internet radio and streaming services for music and TV, such as the optional Škoda Media Command, are also available. The top-of-the-range Columbus infotainment system also has a 10-inch screen and can display the navigation system's maps in a different level of zoom than the Virtual Cockpit. This new function can be adjusted using the innovative touch slider below the display, which also controls the volume.
Virtual Cockpit now even more user-friendly
For the fourth generation of its bestseller, Škoda has improved the Virtual Cockpit even further. The latest generation of the digital and individually customisable instrument panel comes with a 10.25-inch screen and is now even more user-friendly. The driver can choose from four different layouts - Basic, Classic, Navigation and Driver Assistance Systems - and specify their desired content using the controls on the multifunction steering wheel. For the Octavia RS, there is also an exclusive Sport layout. In the Driver Assistance Systems layout, activated systems are shown three-dimensionally - and are even mirrored in the central display.
Connect mobile online services
The Škoda Octavia's eSIM provides access to Škoda Connect mobile online services. These include eCall, which is mandatory in the EU and automatically calls for emergency assistance in the event of an accident, and Proactive Service (breakdown call), which transmits the position and status of the vehicle to the breakdown service in the event of a technical problem. The vehicle status report automatically stores important data each time the ignition is switched off. In addition, Proactive Service can keep in contact with the garage, allowing service notifications to be relayed, service appointments to be scheduled or relevant data to be transmitted in the event of a breakdown. The remote vehicle access via the Škoda Connect app or the Škoda Connect web portal allows owners, for example, to retrieve vehicle information and driving data, display the car's parking location, and activate the remote-controlled Honk & Flash function making it easier to find the Octavia in the car park, as well as to lock and unlock the doors and close any open windows. The Infotainment Online services backed by online data offer route calculations, real-time traffic information as well as help with the search for petrol stations and parking spaces. For streaming services or the provision of a Wi-Fi hotspot for passengers, data packages can easily be added from the vehicle.
Up to five USB-C ports and CANTON sound system available
The new Octavia offers up to five USB-C ports for charging or connecting media devices and USB sticks with the infotainment system. Two USB-C ports in the front centre console are standard, another two in the rear together with a 230-V socket and another USB-C port in the overhead console above the rear-view mirror are optionally available. Using the optional Phone Box, smartphones can also be charged inductively and paired to the vehicle's external aerial. The acoustically optimised interior and the new optional CANTON Sound System ensure a perfect audio experience.
Simply Clever: new features for Škoda's bestseller
Škoda has extended the list of its brand-typical Simply Clever features available for the new Octavia to offer the driver and passengers the highest degree of functionality and comfort. The convenient filler tube for AdBlue®, enabling it to be filled up using a lorry pump nozzle too, is a brand-new feature. The two smartphone storage pockets on the front seatbacks are also a first at Škoda.
The Sleep package, which can also be found in other Škoda models, is now making its debut in the Škoda Octavia Combi as well, giving the back seat two comfortable, larger headrests and a blanket. In addition, new retractable sun blinds for the rear side windows allow for the light to be blocked out. The new SigmaQuick boot nets are better and more convenient to use as the nets are particularly easy to open. There is a multifunction storage pocket - for stowing a coat, for example - below the boot cover in the hatchback, while the Octavia Combi features an automatically retractable load cover. Child safety locks for the rear doors can be operated electrically, there is therefore no need to get out of the car to do so. The storage compartment with an umbrella or hand brush in the front doors is new.
Other new features for the Octavia include a funnel integrated into the lid of the windscreen washer tank and water ducts on the windscreen, which allow rainwater to drain optimally, thus contributing to the lowest amount of drag possible. Thanks to its integrated Tip-To-Close function, the electrically operated tailgate (optional) can also be closed with ease by gently pulling on it. It also comes with a virtual pedal. The button to electrically unlock the optional retractable tow bar can be found in the boot too.
