New Skoda Octavia launched at Rs 13.95 lakh

Skoda has launched the new 3rd generation Octavia in India at a starting price of Rs 13.95 lakh and in three trim levels, namely, Active, Ambition and Elegance. Engine options include the 1.4 TSI petrol (140PS power and 250 Nm torque), 1.8 TSI petrol (180PS power and 250Nm torque) and the 2.0 TDI diesel(143PS power and 320Nm torque) which is offered in both seven-speed DSG automatic and six-speed manual transmission options. 

Variant wise pricing is as follows,

The new Octavia is a definte step up from the Laura in terms of dimensions and luxury, yet the weight has been reduced. Extra flab has been removed thanks to the intelligent use of high-strength steels while ensuring high structural rigidity. The new MQB platform provides for the bigger dimensions of the Octavia. Space has been increased on the inside without compromising on boot space which can now swallow 590 litres of your luggage. 

The Octavia follows the new Vision D design philosophy of Skoda while sticking to its Czech DNA sporting a minimalistic and understated exterior. The redesigned vertically stacked grille with a refined Skoda badge is the way forward for all future Skoda vehicles. The front has short overhangs and the side of the car sports a finely chisled line connecting the front to the tail lamps. The rear is very reminiscent of the Skoda Rapid mostly because of the C-shaped tail lamps. However, the overall appearance of the car has an air of sophistication and precision to it and as such grows on you with each new look.  The interior is made of fine quality materials and dressed in leather. The piano black finish on the central console provides for a premium touch.

Coming to the features of the trim levels, the base Active gets 16-inch alloy wheels, electronically adjustable mirrors, ABS, dual front airbags, traction control, driver’s seat height adjustment, steering adjustment, audio system with an SD card reader, rear air-con vents, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, gearlever and handbrake. With the mid level Ambition variant you get all the above and features like stability control, multi-collision braking, a front electronic differential lock, a front electronic differential lock, rear parking sensors, a touch-screen audio system, steering-mounted audio controls, USB, aux-in, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, automatic headlamps and wipers, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seats and electric folding mirrors.

Top of the range Elegance trim sports all this plus bi-Xenon headlamps, LED daytime running lamps, tyre pressure monitoring system, front parking sensors, total 6 airbags, panoramic sunroof, electrically adjustable driver’s seat with seat memory and cruise control. However, there is no reverse camera which is an essential to a lengthy car like this. Also, glaring omissions include keyless entry and go and satellite navigation which are expected in a car of this segment.

Skoda claims that the Octavia 2.0 TDI manual returns a fuel efficiency of 20.61 km/l. Fuel efficiency figures are as follow

Talking about the return of the Octavia to India, Sudhir Rao, Managing Director, Skoda India said, “The Octavia had launched Skoda back in 2001 and today the Indian market is a critical component in Skoda’s global plans. The launch of the new Octavia marks a milestone for Skoda India as well reiterates its strong commitment to the Indian market. We, at Skoda are excited to launch the new Octavia and are confident that it will revolutionize its segment compelling the customers to expect more. Octavia’s arrival into the Indian market also kicks off a five year strategy for Skoda which will make the customers the brand’s primary focus in addition to our long-standing reputation for making great products.”

The Octavia competes with the likes of the Toyota Corolla Altis, Volkswagen Jetta, Chevrolet Cruze, etc. 

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