Škoda Octavia: Refreshing the brand's best-seller

Škoda Auto has updated the hatchback and estate versions of its iconic Octavia. With more than 7 million units sold, it is by far the brand’s best-selling model. Its fourth modern generation has now been given a freshened look that includes a revised Škoda grille and new second-generation LED Matrix beam headlights. Furthermore, the share of sustainable materials in the interior has increased. For an even more advanced in-car experience, the AI-powered chatbot ChatGPT will be integrated into the Laura voice assistant later in 2024. Additional safety and assistance systems enhance active and passive safety and a new range structure provides additional individualisation options.

Klaus Zellmer, Chairman of the Board of Škoda Auto, says: “Our customers rightly expect a lot from the Octavia and this refresh takes our best-selling model to the next level. Innovations such as a fully redesigned infotainment system, new safety assistance systems, increased use of sustainable materials and more powerful headlights make it an even better fit for everyday explorers. I’m confident our latest Octavia will surprise and delight its drivers and passengers, confirming its place as our most popular car.”

New momentum for the brand’s iconic model

The fourth generation of modern Octavias has been refreshed with a new, improved look that incorporates a modified Skoda grille and redesigned front and back bumpers. New alloy wheel designs, updated LED rear lights with animated indicators, and second-generation LED matrix beam headlights are also new. The new range structure provides seven interior Design Selections and four trim levels: SE Technology, SE L, Sportline, and vRS.

Škoda’s best-seller and its success story

Since 1996, when manufacture of the Czech automaker's current model Octavia began, it has served as the company's backbone. Its four generations have drawn over seven million buyers in more than 60 countries thanks to its exceptional degree of safety, spaciousness, cutting-edge technology, and great value for the money. Since 2020, the Octavia estate has accounted for 67.1% of all sales, making it the vehicle of choice for customers. Graphite Grey, Brilliant Silver, and Magic Black are the most popular colours.

New upholstery and decorative trims

New door panel designs, trim, and upholstery are included with the upgraded Skoda Octavia. Among the seven Design Selections from vRS, SE Technology, SE L, Sportline, and other trim levels, some are made with sustainable materials by Škoda. Recycled materials can be found in the Lodge and Sportline Design Selections, while the Suite Design Selection's leather has been sustainably handled. Coffee husks are among the ecological materials used to tan it. This optional Design Selection's ergonomic front chairs offer ventilation and massage in addition to the AGR (Healthy Back Campaign) seal of approval. Another first for the Octavia is the use of Unique Dark Chrome trim elements on the steering wheel, which now sports the new, two-dimensional Škoda emblem, and in the interior.

Octavia customers can choose between five engine options with three petrol and two diesels forming the new line-up. The petrol range now starts with a 1.5 TSI unit available with a six speed manual gearbox and power output of 116 PS while the seven-speed DSG unit also includes mild-hybrid technology. From the SE L trim upwards there is a 1.5 TSI engine with a 150 PS power output that is available with manual gearbox or DSG automatic with mild-hybrid technology. The most powerful petrol engine in the revised line-up is a 2.0 TSI reserved for the range-topping vRS. It generates 265 PS and drives through a seven-speed DSG gearbox as standard.