Third Generation Skoda Octavia Offers Larger Interior and More Efficiency

The third generation SkodaSkodaCzech Rep., 1895 > present57 models
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OctaviaSkoda Octavia (Modern)Czech Rep., 1996 > present3 series
399 versions
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is having a major growth spurt. The new generation is 90mm longer, 45mm wider and has a 108mm longer wheelbase than the second generation. The larger size is not hurting the car's economy, though. The cleanest of the eight offered engines produces 89g/km of CO2. Compared to a similarly equipped second-generation Octavia, the third generation will weigh 102kg (225lbs) less. 

“The Skoda Octavia is the heart of the Skoda brand. It embodies the good Skoda genes in the best sense of the word: lots of room, quality, precise workmanship, modern, mature technology, timeless design, high functionality and the best price-value ratio. Our customers’ expectations have grown. Our aim was to make this car even better for its third generation," said Skoda CEO Winfried Vahland.

The larger size offers some benefits. The third generation has 8mm more front head room, 39mm more front elbow room and 26mm more rear elbow room. Skoda claims that the car has the longest interior of any compact at 1,782mm, more knee room at 73mm, more rear headroom at 980mm and the largest rear cargo area at 590 liters. 

The new car has a very clean look with few creases or curves. It makes the bulge in the hood that much more prominent. Skoda's designers wanted the car to communicate precision when people looked at it. The front of the car is dominated by the horizontal lines of the lower grill, center grill and windshield. The only vertical line connecting them is the hood bulge. From the side and rear, the car almost has a look of Audis from the 2000s. 

The Octavia will be offered with eight engines from launch: four petrols and four diesels. The cleanest among them will be a 1.6 TDI Greentec with 109hp with stop/start that emits 89g/km of CO2 and uses 3.4l/100km (69mpg). The Greentec option is available on all options except for the entry-level petrol and diesel engines. The most powerful engine will the 1.8 TSI with 177hp. Depending on engine, DSG will be available. A natural gas-fueled engine will also be added later. Skoda is already working on an all-wheel drive version, and the more sporty Octavia RS will debut later. 

The third generation will be optionally available with adaptive cruise control, automatic headlights, automatic parking assist, traffic sign recognition, panoramic sunroof and keyless start. The new infotainment systems will use touch screens.

For safety, the new Octavia will be offered with lane assist, fatigue detection, a front hatch for pedestrian protection and active emergency braking that will become available in May. 

Skoda has not announced prices for the new car yet, but it will be available starting early next year in Europe.