Originally released in 1996, it went to Škoda Octavia that it was up to the world to show the “new Škoda” — the Škoda (re)born after the acquisition by the Volkswagen Group. Since then, it has sold over 6.5 million units of this model.
It was for this reason, with great expectations, that the Czech brand introduced the new Škoda Octavia (4th generation) in our country.
In this first contact, which counted with the company of the Bárbara depression, we are going to present to you the main news of this family member, who has two missions ahead: to continue to convince Portuguese families and, for the first time, to attack the business market "in earnest".
Almost «everything new» on the… new Škoda Octavia
Let's start from the outside. In aesthetic terms, the new Škoda Octavia is perhaps the most inspired ever. Despite maintaining the brand's identity, it is now bolder than what the brand has become accustomed to.
The front was completely redesigned and now has LED headlights, regardless of the version chosen. At the rear it also has a new luminous signature and a more striking presence.
In terms of dimensions, the length of the new Škoda Octavia has only increased by 2.2 cm and the wheelbase has remained the same, so one would expect there to be no big news inside. But as Škoda is the Volkswagen Group's champion of space use, these 2.2 cm were enough to increase the luggage space by 30 liters, now reaching 640 and 600 liters, in the van and saloon versions, respectively.
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Underneath the new body shapes we find the MQB Evo platform, an evolution of the MQB platform we already knew from the previous Škoda Octavia (3rd generation). It is the same platform that we find in the new Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3 and SEAT Leon.
New platform, new technologies
Thanks to the adoption of the MQB Evo platform, the latest technologies from the Volkswagen Group are now available on the new Škoda Octavia. I'm talking about technologies to support driving, connectivity and infotainment.
Therefore, it now has a 100% digital quadrant of 10.25″, supported by a central screen of up to 10″, with internet connection, WiFi hotspot, remote updates and integration with smartphones via Android Auto and Apple Carplay.
It wasn't just the technological content that was reinforced in this 4th generation.
The interior design has improved substantially, not even lacking ambient lighting in various colors (in the more equipped versions). As for the build quality, it remains at the level that the Czech brand has already accustomed us to: everything solid and well assembled.
The first kilometers behind the wheel of the Škoda Octavia
In this first and brief contact, I had the opportunity to test version 2.0 TDI of 150 hp — for now only available with the DSG box. Despite the bad weather, it was possible to draw some conclusions.
The soundproofing of the cabin has improved substantially. It may not be as effective as the Audi A3 or Volkswagen Golf, but the difference is not abysmal. As in the models I just mentioned, the dynamic behavior is exemplary. However, despite the grip limits being high, the new Octavia doesn't invite rushing paces. Let's wait for the RS sport versions, with 245 hp, ok?
There are several driving modes available, but the most interesting remains the «normal» mode. We always have power and torque available without putting too much effort on mechanics and without harming consumption. The unit I tested did not have adaptive suspensions (which reduce ground clearance by 10mm), but will be well served with passive suspensions as standard.
As for the comfort, even with 18″ wheels, the Škoda Octavia that I had the opportunity to test surpassed all the imperfections of the asphalt with distinction. It is undoubtedly in this respect that the Škoda Octavia stands out.
Prices in Portugal
The new Škoda Octavia is now available in our country from 23 000 euros in the Sedan version with the 1.0 TSI engine of 110 hp. Even in this entry-level version, we already have automatic air conditioning, LED headlights, an 8-inch infotainment system and special wheels. So a very competitive value.
There is also a “mild-hybrid” version of this 1.0 TSI with DSG box, which costs 25 877 euros.
In the field of Diesel, prices start at 29 585 euros, for the Sedan 2.0 TDi version of 116 hp. The 150 hp 2.0 TDI version is available for €32,627 — now only available with a DSG box. If you want to opt for the van version (in the pictures), add 900 euros to these values.
Plug-in hybrid versions will arrive later, but it has not yet been defined which versions will be sold in our country, with 204 and 245 hp PHEV versions being available in other markets.