All-new Skoda Octavia revealed; set for a 2013 launch

Czech auto maker Skoda Auto India has showcased the all-new Skoda Octavia, for the benefit of car buyers in the near future. Claimed to provide the best space in its class by the company, the next generation Octavia has a lot more space than its predecessor, the Laura. The length of the interior is 1782 mm, and provides more head, leg and knee room for front and rear passengers.

The vehicle is based on a stretched version of Volkswagen's new MQB platform, such that the length of the vehicle is now 4659 mm, 90 mm longer than the Laura. For the new Octavia, the wheelbase has been stretched by a generous 108 mm, to 2686 mm, which is even more than the Volkswagen Jetta, considered to be the best in this class.

Talking about engine specifications, the base model of the Octavia line-up will get a 1.4 litre TSI (Petrol) engine, capable of producing a maximum power of 120 bhp and torque of 199 Nm. A more powerful 1.4 TSI is also to be released soon, with maximum power of 138 bhp and torque of 249 Nm. A third 1.8 litre petrol variant, producing a magnanimous 177 bhp, is also expected to be placed as the top model.

In the diesel category, a 1.6 litre engine is available, one of which produces 103 bhp, and the other is the Greenline version, producing 108 bhp. Two 2.0 litre TDI versions are also expected to be offered, producing 147 bhp and 181 bhp. However, it remains to be seen which of these motors, whether 1.6 litre or 2.0 litre, will be brought to India in 2013.

Coming to the interiors, the new dashboard has cleaner design cues than the previous Laura. Several thoughtful touches have been added to spruce up the interiors, such as waste bins in the doors and a reversible boot floor, with carpet on one side and rubber on the other. On the technological forefront, a touchscreen multimedia system, a lane departure warning system, pop-up bonnet and keyless entry and go have been provided with the beautiful, new vehicle.

It remains to be seen how Skoda Auto India will price this vehicle, which definitely seems to be a high quality product. Along with the Volkswagen Jetta, it may help Volkswagen to lead this segment in India (Skoda Auto India is owned by Volkswagen Group).