Skoda Octavia Gains iV Plug-in Hybrid

Skoda has expanded the model line-up for the new Octavia further, with the introduction of new iV and vRS iV plug-in hybrid variants.

Using the same 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine and electric drivetrain technology seen in the Superb iV, the new Octavia iV is priced from £30,795 OTR and is available in hatch and estate forms. The Octavia iV develops 204PS and 350Nm, while the vRS iV serves up 245PS and 400Nm.

Benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax starts from 6% for the Octavia iV and 10% for the vRS iV. Both models use a 13kWh battery that can be charged at a rate of up to 3.6kW, meaning a charge time of 3.5 hours from a wallbox or five hours when using a domestic socket.

Performance

Skoda’s latest addition marks the first time they have fitted the Plug-in Hybrid technology to the Octavia. The system comprises a 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 201bhp and 350Nm torque.

The electric motor is fed by a lithium-ion battery pack with a 13kWh capacity – and Skoda claims that the newcomer is capable of 34 miles on battery power alone under WLTP testing. The powertrain also boasts fuel economy figures of between 188.3–282.5mpg and claimed CO2 emissions of between 22–33g/km.

Driving Modes

A range of driving modes have been built to fine-tune the powertrain. Selecting E-mode will keep the Octavia in electric drive only and is designed for driving in urban areas or on short commutes.

In Hybrid mode, interaction between the petrol engine and electric motor is automatically regulated. Either they compliment one another when used simultaneously, or the electronics activate only one of them. Hybrid mode also offers the option of charging the battery via recuperation or the engine while the car is moving. This allows the driver to set their own desired battery level.

Design

Design wise, the latest Octavia has grown ever so slightly. The hatchback is 19mm longer than before, while the estate is 22mm longer. Both cars are 15mm wider – and, as a result, practicality has improved too. The boot of the hatchback grows to 600 litres, with the Octavia Estate now fielding a 640-litre cargo area.

Both Octavia iV models feature 18-inch Vega Aero alloy wheels, decorative door sills and a storage compartment in the boot for the supplied charging cables. The unique instrumentation and displays that show the vehicle state of charge along with the various driving modes.

The interior moves further upmarket with the introduction of new softer touch plastics and chrome trim elements. Massage seats are also available for the first time, as is an optional head-up display, plus three-zone climate control and full LED matrix headlights.