Much anticipated Skoda Octavia likely to be launched in October 2013

As the official launch of new Skoda Octavia closes in, customers and car enthusiasts are witnessing a growing unease. As per the available information, the 3rd generation model of Skoda Octavia is expected to hit the India automotive market in the month of October 2013. This new model is anticipated to be priced somewhere between Rs. 14 lakh and Rs. 18.5 lakh, which seems quite reasonable considering the features packed within it. This third generation model will be available with altogether revamped interiors and exteriors. Interestingly, the yet to be launched model seems to be be inspired from the Vision D concept.

The new Skoda Octavia seems to have undergone major changes at exteriors for getting a distinctive and defined stance. This new vehicle with a classy appearance will aptly fit-in with the growing demand of inspirational cars. Major noticeable changes have been done in its length and wheelbase to improve on the factors of comfort and space. As such, the length has increased from 4.5 meters to 4.6 meters while the width has gone to 1.8 meters from 1.7 meters as compared to its predecessor. Notably, the wheelbase of this sedan has also gone up by 108 mm to increase the interior cabin space for passengers. Also, despite these significant changes, the new car is around 102 kg lighter than the previous generation models. It must be noted that this is made possible with the use of parent company Volkswagen’s MQB platform.

The front fascia of all new Skoda Octavia is highly graceful and casts an appealing look. New headlights on both sides of a distinctive grille essentially look classy. Stylishly designed fog lamps further accentuate its overall front fascia. With halogen lights in the front and normal lights at the back, the new model is expected to gain popularity in quick succession. The top generation model of Octavia is expected to get bi-Xenon headlights with day-time running LEDs at front, along with full LED lights for the tail lamp cluster. Notably, despite these new additions, Skoda has done well to retain its signature ‘C’ shaped tail lights in both trims. On sidelines, the model closely resembles its predecessor except for sharper lines and slightly modified wheel arches for a refreshing look. Wheels also feature a sharper design that one can find in few of the new Volkswagen’s sedans.

Interiors look to be rich and sophisticated with the addition of a new touch screen and audio system, which is compatible with USB, Bluetooth, SD card and iPod connectivity. Among major changes done to interiors of the new Octavia are adaptive cruise control, a new electro panoramic sunroof, optional keyless entry as well as automatic door and ignition system. It is expected that the sedan will also come with high-end features like parking assist system and 12-way adjustable seats. Whether or not the the new Octavia will get rear air conditioner vents, as available on the European version, still remains to be seen. However, if auto maker goes ahead to incorporate the said feature, it will certainly be a great add-on to spice up comfort levels for Indian buyers.

Besides, various safety features will be available to ensure safe on-road commuting. It is noteworthy to mention that all Skoda vehicles come with a number of safeguard options and new model is not an exception. The all new sedan is expected to get features like four (may be six) airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Anti Statutory Regulator (ASR), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and Tyre Pressure Monitor (TPM).

The new Skoda is expected to come with four petrol and four diesel engine options. The petrol version will include a 1.4TSI engine with two states of tune, 120 bhp and 138 bhp. The bigger units will use a 1.8TSI engine having an output of 177 bhp while vRS version will use a 2.0-litre TSI engine. The diesel versions will either include 1.6-litre TDI engine with an output of 103 bhp and 108 bhp or 2.0-litre TDI engine with a power output of 147 bhp and 181 bhp.

Overall, the all new Skoda Octavia is expected to offer high on-road performance with a better fuel efficiency. The handling and pick-up aspects of the model are also streamlined towards achieving easy driveability and manoeuvrability during drives.