The redesigned ŠKODA OCTAVIA: clean lines with even more presence and precision
› Newly designed front with striking, bold horizontal lines
› Headlights with full-LED technology available as an option
› LED rear lights as standard for all versions, tail lights in two-dimensional
C-shape
› Slight increase in length, considerably widened rear track
› Clean lines and surfaces in the interior, retouched instrument cluster
› Interior with new materials and colours, optional ambient lighting
The changes to the design of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA and the ŠKODA OCTAVIA COMBI catch the eye at first glance. Their appearance is more powerful, bold and emotive than before, particularly at the front. It appears wider and the headlights shine in full-LED technology if this option is chosen. In the interior, there are new colours and materials for the seat covers, new decorative features and optional lighting units in the doors. The instrument cluster and the controls for the air-conditioning have also been modified slightly.
Exterior design
With its wider radiator grille – enhanced even further by additional crystalline headlights – and the even wider, honeycomb-structured air inlets in the newly designed bumper, the new front comes across as masculine and dynamic. The new design’s raked styling and high level of precision draws upon the motifs of Bohemian glass art. Its shape resembles of the new ŠKODA KODIAQ large SUV, however, it has a horizontal orientation: the outer headlights produce the dipped beam, while the inner headlights – tapered towards the grille – produce the full beam. Placing the radiator grille and lighting unit immediately next to each other creates a graphic entity which gives the ŠKODA OCTAVIA high recognition value.
The large compact car from Mladá Boleslav has halogen headlights as standard, which are complemented by LED daytime running lights. From the Style trim level upwards,
fog lights sit in the wide lower air inlet (optional for the Active and Ambition trim levels, standard for the Style and L&K trim levels). On request, ŠKODA will fit newly developed full-LED headlights from the Ambition trim level upwards. A lighting unit runs along their bottom edge, emitting indicator and daytime running lights. Fine longitudinal lighting units run through the surfaces containing the headlights; the fog lights can be complemented with adaptive lighting.
The AFS function (AFS = adaptive front headlights) comes as standard with the full-LED headlights – it creates light beams that are specifically configured for country roads, motorways, urban traffic and rain. From the Ambition trim level upwards, Light Assist is optional. Using the front camera, it recognises other vehicles or illuminated urban streets; when necessary, it automatically turns the full beam on or off.
The new headlights, the contrasting dipped beam units in particular, are just one design feature which makes the front of the comprehensively revised ŠKODA OCTAVIA and ŠKODA OCTAVIA COMBI appear wider and more sculpted. The bumpers are also designed with a particularly pronounced horizontal orientation; the bar structuring the large air inlet is chromium-plated in the Style and L&K trim levels. The radiator grille in high-gloss black (for Style and L&K), the bonnet and the wings have an even more striking and clearer design, the brand logo is even more prominent.
The precise, sharply cut lines that shape the design of the revised ŠKODA OCTAVIA and ŠKODA OCTAVIA COMBI continue along the sides and on the rear, creating an intense interplay of light and shade on the surfaces. With its new shape, the rear bumper appears powerful and neat thanks to subtle contours.
The rear lights are embedded in the body like jewels. ŠKODA offers these in two versions which differ in design and technology. The standard lights come with LEDs which produce the rear and brake lights, whilst LEDs provide almost all the lighting functions in the top-of-the-range LED rear lights. With the top-of-the-range variant, the C-shaped rear lights now appear as a homogeneous lighting surface; a break separating the lines in the upper corner makes the design even more striking. Contours in the lights improve the flow separation, thereby improving the car’s aerodynamics.
Due to the new design solutions, these two ŠKODA OCTAVIA models have grown in length by 11 and 8 mm respectively. The hatchback is now 4,670 mm long, the Combi
4,667 mm. Depending on the engine and corresponding rear axle, the rear track is now 20 or 30 mm wider, the rear wheels are flush with the bodywork. A choice of 13 paint finishes are available – four standard colours and nine metallic colours.
Interior design
The interior of the comprehensively revised ŠKODA OCTAVIA and ŠKODA OCTAVIA COMBI is a place of well-being - it is clear, calm and focused on the essentials. Its design continues the exterior lines: the horizontal is emphasised, underlining the impression of an open, airy space. The surfaces and shapes are geometrically clear and taut. The round instruments are large and easy to read, their new design making them even crisper.
ŠKODA presents several new additions with regards to interior materials and colours.
In the Ambition trim level, the original black/grey seat cover combination (black/grey instrument panel) is replaced by the new combination of black/brown (black/black instrument panel). The other trim levels are enhanced through new cover materials whereas the colour remains the same.
In the Ambition and Style trim levels, the decorative trims have also been updated. ŠKODA fits the door trims in the L&K with ambient lighting as a standard, this is optional in the Style version. Slim lighting units at the upper end of the trim strips produce
a discreet light, which can be set to one of ten different colours.
Infotainment and ŠKODA Connect:
modern hardware, intelligent services
› Four infotainment systems, all with a capacitive display, two of which have
a navigation function
› Top-of-the-range Columbus system has a 9.2-inch screen and provides a Wi-Fi hotspot, LTE module
› ŠKODA Connect: Infotainment Online for information and entertainment, Care Connect for support and assistance including Emergency Call
› ŠKODA Connect app with new, attractive remote services
› Further options: Phonebox with inductive charging and Canton Sound System
› SmartLink+ for the integration of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, MirrorLinkTM and SmartGate
‘Always online’, the comprehensively upgraded ŠKODA OCTAVIA opens up the world of mobile communications to its passengers. Its infotainment systems are from a new generation, offering completely new functions in terms of connectivity. They are easy to operate and can be connected in various ways. They bring the new mobile online services from ŠKODA Connect to the car and are divided into two categories: Infotainment Online, which provides entertainment and information (exclusively for Amundsen and Columbus navigation systems), and Care Connect, which provides support and assistance (all infotainment systems).
Infotainment systems
There is a choice of four hardware components in the comprehensively revised ŠKODA OCTAVIA: the Swing and Bolero music systems as well as the Amundsen and Columbus navigation systems. All four systems are from the latest generation of equipment. They impress with quick processing, intelligent functions and simple operation. The capacitive touch screens react even to a light touch of a finger and not only to pressure. The optional Bolero, Amundsen and Columbus infotainment systems in a new glass design make the high-quality instrument panel even more attractive.
The Swing music system comes as standard. It has a 6.5-inch screen, an SD-card slot, an aux-in socket and a USB port. Further connectivity features are available on request, including the SmartLink+ platform: this enables the use of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, MirrorLinkTM and, for the first time, SmartGate on the device. When the customer connects their smartphone to the USB port, the relevant settings open. The availability of the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay systems may vary depending on country.
The Bolero music system comes as standard in the L&K trim level. It has a high-definition 8.0-inch touch screen in a fine glass design and comes with proximity sensor technology: when a finger approaches, an operation mode is activated, enables swiping, scrolling and character input. The Bolero system also integrates a Bluetooth connection, eight speakers and SmartLink+. Voice control is available as an option.
The Amundsen navigation system is based on the Bolero system. Using the free MapCare service, ŠKODA OCTAVIA customers can update their maps for the lifespan of the device at no extra cost. The integrated Wi-Fi hotspot allows passengers to freely surf, stream and mail using their mobile devices.
The Columbus navigation system is at the top of the range, and is available from the Ambition trim level upwards. It has an impressive 9.2-inch display with a resolution of 1,280 × 640 pixels. Other features include a 64-GB flash memory, a DVD drive and an optional LTE module, which gives the ŠKODA OCTAVIA high-speed internet access; download speed is up to 150 Mbit per second.
Attractive additional components round off the hardware offering in the ŠKODA OCTAVIA: Phonebox (from the Ambition trim level upwards) charges a smartphone inductively and connects to the car aerial; both functions are wireless. The Canton Sound System (also from Ambition upwards) features 10 speakers including a central speaker in the instrument panel and a subwoofer in the boot. The sturdy tablet holders, another option, can be mounted on the front seat headrests – a typical ‘Simply Clever‛ idea from ŠKODA. The optional 230-V and USB sockets in the rear can be used for charging of the devices.
ŠKODA Connect
The mobile online services from ŠKODA Connect are the perfect addition to the infotainment system – they offer a new dimension of navigation, information, entertainment and assistance. They are divided into two categories: the new Infotainment Online services provide information and entertainment, and the Care Connect services provide assistance and remote access to the vehicle. Via the new ŠKODA Connect portal, these services can also be accessed on the customer’s home computer: from there they can configure services as well as transfer destinations, routes and points of interest. ŠKODA dealers will assist customers with registration and activation on the portal.
One of the highlights in the Infotainment Online portfolio is Online Traffic Information which displays live traffic flows on the chosen route and suggests detours in the case of traffic jams. The Fuel Prices, Parking Information, Online News and Weather Information services provide the customer with customised information. In addition, the customer can transfer routes, destinations and points of interest (POIs) to the navigation system via the ŠKODA Connect portal.
There are four more services exclusively available for the Columbus system: Google EarthTM integrates the navigation route into the interactive world map with its photo-realistic map views; Google Street ViewTM provides a street view of the destination.
The Online Map Update service provides the customer with new maps at regular intervals. Voice Control can be used for the online POI search.
The Infotainment Online services are available for the Amundsen and Columbus navigation systems. They are free in the first year after purchasing a new ŠKODA OCTAVIA and are subject to a fee afterwards. In the Amundsen system, they work via the user’s smartphone, which is paired with the system, or a USB stick. In the Columbus system, they work via the user’s smartphone or an inserted SIM card supporting high-speed LTE connections.
The Care Connect services offer customers of the upgraded ŠKODA OCTAVIA assistance and support in many situations. They are available for all infotainment systems and come as standard from the Ambition trim level upwards. Data is transferred using a SIM card built into the car. The Care Connect services are free of charge during the first year after purchasing a new OCTAVIA. After that, Remote Access services are subject to a fee whilst all other Care Connect services remain free for another 13 years.
In Europe, the in-car Emergency Call (eCall) already comes as standard from the Ambition trim level upwards (this may differ in some countries), even before it is made compulsory: if a restraint system has been deployed following an accident, the car establishes a voice and data connection to a dedicated emergency call centre and transfers all of the necessary information. An employee at the emergency call centre initiates the most appropriate support measures and, where necessary, sends an emergency vehicle to the site of the accident. The driver or passengers can also trigger the Emergency Call manually via a button in the roof module. It also comes with
a notification function for minor accidents and breakdowns. The third button in this module, displaying an ‘i’, connects an Info Call. When a customer activates the Proactive Service, their dealership contacts them when a service is due to arrange a convenient appointment.
Other Care Connect services work using the new ŠKODA Connect app. The customer can access information about the vehicle’s condition on their smartphone or send their route planner to the car via the app. The new remote services are also exciting: the Vehicle Status service remotely gives the customer information regarding the lights and doors, the level of fuel in the tank and other information. The Parking Location function directs the customer to their car.
The Honk & Flash function makes it even easier to find the car by activating the horn and indicators. Area Notification, online Anti-Theft Alarm and Speed Notification inform the driver if their car is moved by a third party in a way which they have not permitted. The Trip Statistics function rounds off the range of remote services.
Powertrain and chassis: powerful and economical, balanced and sporty
› Nine engines ranging from 1.0 to 2.0 l: four TSI, four TDI and one CNG; power output ranges from 63 kW (86 PS) to 135 kW (184 PS)
› 1.4 TSI G-TEC for CNG drive with DSG transmissions under 100 g CO2/km
› Agile three-cylinder TSI with 85 kW (115 PS), extremely powerful 2.0 TDI
› DSG transmissions available for almost all engines
› All-wheel drive for the most powerful engines
The extensively revised ŠKODA OCTAVIA and ŠKODA OCTAVIA COMBI come with a choice of nine engines – four TSI, four TDI and one CNG. They have capacities ranging from 1.0 to 2.0 litres, and their power outputs range from 63 kW (86 PS) to 135 kW (184 PS). A decisive factor contributing to the dynamic character and low fuel consumption of the engines is the low vehicle weight: the 1.0 TSI ŠKODA OCTAVIA hatchback weighs just 1,150 kg when empty (without the driver).
TSI engines and CNG engine
The entry-level petrol engine is a 1.2 TSI, which delivers 63 kW (86 PS). The engine with the smallest capacity, the 1.0 TSI, sits above it – the three-cylinder offers as much as 85 kW (115 PS). The 1.4 TSI is available in a choice of two versions. As a G-TEC it has a power output of 81 kW (110 PS) and is designed for particularly economical operation with CNG; in the hatchback with DSG transmissions, its average CO2 emissions are 98 g/km. As a pure petrol engine, the 1.4-l engine delivers 110 kW (150 PS). The powerful 1.8 TSI with an output of 132 kW (180 PS) is the top-of-the-range petrol engine.
TDI engines
All of the TDI engines in the OCTAVIA range have four cylinders. The entry-level 1.6 TDI is available in two versions – with a power output of 66 kW (90 PS) or 85 kW (116 PS). With the 2.0 TDI, customers can choose between two versions which have a power output of 110 kW (150 PS) or 135 kW (184 PS). The top-of-the-range diesel offers a particularly high torque of 380 Nm.
Manual gearboxes and DSG transmissions
Almost every car in the revised ŠKODA OCTAVIA family is available with a five or six speed manual gearbox as standard; the top-of-the-range diesel works with a dual-clutch transmission as standard. Apart from the 1.2 TSI and the 1.6 TDI with a power output of 66 kW (90 PS), DSG transmissions are available for all engines. Depending on the version, they come with six or seven speeds, and gears can be changed at lightning speed thanks to the use of the two clutches. The 2.0 TDI (110 kW / 150 PS) with DSG transmission and all-wheel drive constitutes a new powertrain option – the first all-wheel-drive OCTAVIA with 7-speed DSG.
All-wheel drive
ŠKODA also offers all-wheel drive for the 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TDI with 110 kW (150 PS); the most powerful diesel engine with a power output of 135 kW (184 PS) always comes with all-wheel drive. Its central component, which provides considerably increased traction and safety, is an electronically controlled hydraulic multi-plate clutch. It is positioned in front of the rear axle, and is compact and light. The torque distribution to all four wheels always depends on the driving situation; the ideal driving torque for the rear axle is calculated by the control unit.
When cornering quickly, the XDS+ electronic differential lock, which is a function of the Electronic Stability Control (ESC), makes handling even smoother and safer for both front- and all-wheel drive. XDS+ gently slows down the unloaded inner wheels to transmit more power to the outer wheel and to make the ŠKODA OCTAVIA even more agile when negotiating corners.
Chassis
With the revision of its large compact car, ŠKODA made the rear track wider. For the variants featuring a multi-link suspension (up to 110 kW / 150 PS), it has been increased to 1,540 mm (plus 20 mm). The most powerful TSI, all of the 4×4 variants and the
G-TEC all come with a four-link rear axle; their rear track is now 1,542 mm instead of 1,512 mm.
The front axle uses MacPherson struts. The rack-and-pinion steering uses an efficient electro-mechanical servo drive and works in close harmony with several assistance systems. Large brakes ensure reliable deceleration. The assortment of wheels ranges from 15 to 18 inches; many designs are new. The 18-inch Pictoris and the 17-inch Trius wheels are particularly appealing.
Dynamic Chassis Control
A highlight for the chassis of the revised ŠKODA OCTAVIA and ŠKODA OCTAVIA COMBI is the adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC). Electrically operated valves adjust the dampers’ settings depending on the preference of the driver, who can choose one of three modes – Comfort, Normal and Sport. DCC also contributes to active safety: the system automatically switches to Sport mode in hazardous situations and, in doing so, provides greater stability, better traction and shorter braking distances.
DCC and Driving Mode Select are optional from the Ambition trim level upwards (not available for engines below 110 kW /150 PS). With Driving Mode Select, the driver can change steering characteristics, the operation of the DSG transmission, and the settings of other systems in the Normal, Eco, Sport and Individual modes. Settings are saved on a customisable key (optional).
Assistance systems: even safer and more enjoyable driving
› ŠKODA complements the range with new features from higher vehicle segments
› New: Predictive Pedestrian Protection, Blind Spot Detect, Rear Traffic Alert, Trailer Assist, Front Assist, Crew Protect Assist
› Other systems: ACC, Lane Assist, Travel Assist with Traffic Sign Recognition, Fatigue Detection, Park Assist and more
Safer and more enjoyable driving, reversing and parking – the extensively revised ŠKODA OCTAVIA and ŠKODA OCTAVIA COMBI are pushing to the top of their segment when it comes to assistance systems. Many systems have, until now, only been seen in higher vehicle segments, however some of them now feature in the large compact car.
Front Assist with Predictive Pedestrian Protection
Predictive Pedestrian Protection is designed for urban traffic: at speeds between 10 and 60 km/h, it performs an emergency stop if a pedestrian dangerously attempts to cross the path of the car. The Predictive Pedestrian Protection function is part of the optional Front Assist including City Emergency Braking function.
Blind Spot Detect and Rear Traffic Alert
The new, optional Blind Spot Detect system makes changing lane safer. To do so, it uses two radar sensors located in the rear bumper with a range of approximately 20 m. If another vehicle rapidly approaches from behind or is located in the blind spot, a warning LED light illuminates in the housing of the corresponding wing mirror. If the driver uses the indicator despite the warning, the LED flashes brightly several times at short intervals.
Rear Traffic Alert is another new feature and makes reversing out of parking spaces or drives safer; it detects vehicles approaching from the sides very early. The information required to do so is provided by Blind Spot Detect’s radar sensors located in the rear bumper. The alert is executed in stages – visually, acoustically and finally with automatic braking. Rear Traffic Alert is a key component of Blind Spot Detect.
Trailer Assist
Another new feature for the ŠKODA OCTAVIA and ŠKODA OCTAVIA COMBI is the optional Trailer Assist – it makes reverse manoeuvres with a trailer in tow easier. The driver sets the angle they would like to use for reversing, using the wing mirrors’ turn-switch. If the driver then gently applies the accelerator, the system adjusts the steering wheel to the chosen course. If the angle between the car and the trailer becomes too large, a warning signal is emitted; critical situations lead to an emergency stop.
Manoeuvre Assist
The new Manoeuvre Assist also provides assistance when reversing without a trailer: as soon as it detects an obstacle behind the vehicle it applies the brakes. From a technical standpoint, as with Trailer Assist, the system is based on the improved functionality of the rear parking sensors.
Other assistance systems
Proven assistance systems remain unchanged in the revised ŠKODA OCTAVIA family. The radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) helps the driver to maintain the gap between them and the car in front at a preset speed. Depending on variant, the newly developed radar sensors, which are integrated within the radiator grille, are active up to a speed of 210 km/h.
Lane Assist helps the driver to stay in lane by gently adjusting the steering where necessary. The fatigue detection system (Driver Alert) recognises when the driver’s concentration is waning and prompts them to take a break. If an accident is imminent, the proactive occupant protection system Crew Protect Assist is activated: it closes the windows and sunroof, and pre-tensions the seat belts for the driver and passengers. Crew Protect Assist works in conjunction with Front Assist. If you have an accident, the Multi-Collision Brake, which comes as standard, prevents any further uncontrolled movement of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA.
The camera-based Travel Assist with Traffic Sign Recognition displays speed limits and other road signs as images on the in-car computer as well as on the navigation system display. Park Assist can automatically steer the upgraded ŠKODA OCTAVIA and ŠKODA OCTAVIA COMBI into parking spaces and can also take over when manoeuvring out of parallel parking spaces. Light Assist, which automatically regulates the use of full and dipped beam, rounds off the offering.
Interior and boot: luxurious interior space, many ‘Simply Clever’ ideas
› Interior space of a mid-size car: length of 1,782 mm, kneeroom of 73 mm
› New ‘Simply Clever‛ features: 2 USB connections in the rear, Easy-Open drinks holders for opening a PET bottle using just one hand, removable LED torch in the boot of the Combi, folding tray tables in the rear
› New: customisable keys, heated steering wheel
› Very large boots with a capacity of up to 1,740 l
Within the compact car segment, both the comprehensively revised ŠKODA OCTAVIA and ŠKODA OCTAVIA COMBI continue to set the benchmarks in terms of interior space – with 2,686 mm, their wheelbase is unusually long. The interior length of both variants measures 1,782 mm; kneeroom in the rear is 73 mm. These are mid-size car figures.
‘Simply Clever’ features
Both cars, the ŠKODA OCTAVIA and the ŠKODA OCTAVIA COMBI, already offered numerous ‘Simply Clever’ features prior to their revision, ranging from the umbrella compartment to the tablet holder and the ice scraper in the fuel filler flap. The range of features is now complemented with new solutions. Drinks holders in the centre console allow for PET bottles to be opened using just one hand – the holders’ indentations secure the bottom of a bottle in place. In the Combi’s boot, you’ll find a removable LED torch; its battery will recharge automatically whilst driving.
A customisable key is another new feature. Up to three users can save their individual preferences to its memory, ranging from air conditioning and seat settings to the audio system’s volume and their Driving Mode Select profile. The driver can opt for a heated steering wheel; passengers in the rear can be treated to folding tray tables on the front seats.
Passive safety
The revised model range’s reliable and comprehensive package of restraint features remains unchanged. Up to nine airbags working in finely tuned interaction with five three-point seat belts are ready to be deployed. This includes a knee airbag for the driver (as standard) and rear side airbags (optional). Child seats can be secured using Isofix anchors (also available for the front passenger seat as an option) and top tether anchor points.
Boot
In the extensively revised ŠKODA OCTAVIA model range, the luggage will also travel in total comfort. Even the hatchback boasts 590 l or – with the rear seat folded down – 1,580 l of space under its long tailgate; the Combi prides itself with 610 and 1,740 l. When the backrest of the front passenger seat is folded down (optional extra for the Ambition and Style trim levels), items with a length of up to 2.92 m will fit in the car. For its estate variant, ŠKODA offers numerous ‘Simply Clever’ features with regards to facilitating loading the car. Just to name a few: the adjustable false boot floor (from the Ambition trim level upwards, not for G-TEC variant), the multi-functional shelf, the boot barrier net or the
