› An icon reloaded: new OCTAVIA delights with an emotive design and innovative technologies
› Making their debut: head-up display, shift-by-wire technology and back-friendly Ergo seats
› Powertrains: plug-in-hybrid drive, mild hybrid and efficient petrol, diesel and CNG engines
› Exterior: greater dimensions and boasting an even more emotive design
› Interior: new design and multi-level dashboard
Even better, more spacious, safer, more connected and more emotive than ever: with the launch of the fourth generation of its bestseller, ŠKODA has reached new dimensions. The heart and engine of the ŠKODA brand is longer and wider than its predecessor, has an even larger boot and is even more emotive thanks to the new ŠKODA design language. The new interior concept combines an excellent amount of space and outstanding functionality with high-quality materials and clever details. Innovative connectivity and new assistance systems raise comfort and safety to an even higher level.
“For ŠKODA, the OCTAVIA is of immense importance. That’s why we’ve completely redeveloped this car. The outcome is the best OCTAVIA of all time – it is even more spacious, practical and even safer than ever before. By unveiling its latest generation just in time for its 60th anniversary, we have taken a major step forward. The OCTAVIA has significantly contributed to the positive development of the company and the brand. Over the last six decades. I am very confident that the new generation will play its part in maintaining this positive development.”
ŠKODA AUTO CEO, Bernhard Maier
Sixty years after production of the OCTAVIA started in 1959, ŠKODA is now unveiling the best model yet since its re-launch in 1996. The fourth-generation OCTAVIA will continue to be the brand’s heart and engine as well as its top volume model. With more than 6.5 million units produced, it is the bestselling ŠKODA ever and has been a real icon for many years, both in its Czech home country as well as in numerous other markets around the world. The reasons for this are obvious: it features a modern design and modern technology, it is efficient, extremely practical and high-quality; it offers exceptional amounts of space and superior value for money.
The new OCTAVIA has grown further and, thanks to new proportions and the latest developments in ŠKODA’s design language, is even more emotive and dynamic than its successful predecessor. At a length of 4,689 mm, the hatchback is 19 mm and the COMBI 22 mm longer than the third-generation model. Its width has increased by 15 mm. The COMBI’s boot capacity, which is the largest in the segment, has increased by 30 l to 640 l. The hatchback has a capacity of 600 l – 10 l more than the previous generation. The new front apron and the razor-sharp, narrower, new headlights are a visual delight and feature LED technology for low beam, high beam and daytime running lights as standard. The tail lights, brake lights and fog lights make use of LED technology as well. The newly designed, shallow roof rails emphasise the elongated silhouette of the OCTAVIA COMBI, while the hatchback looks almost like a coupé. Alloy wheels measuring up to 19 inches lend all of the model variants a powerful appearance. Crystal Black, Lava Blue and Titanium Blue have been newly added to the range of paint finishes; a Chrome and a Dynamic package are optional extras.
In the newly designed interior, the OCTAVIA offers a new two-spoke steering wheel, which can be heated as an option and – if ordered as a multifunction variant – comes with new control buttons and knurled scroll wheels, allowing drivers to operate a total of 14 different functions without removing their hands. The dashboard, which has also been redesigned, is modular and has been arranged in different levels, featuring a large, free-standing central display. The centre console is elegant, uncluttered and adorned with chrome details – as are the new door trims and handles. New and soft-touch materials lend the interior a premium look, while the new LED ambient lighting provides a special visual touch for the front doors and dashboard by indirectly illuminating them in a choice of ten different colours – even in a variety of colours if desired. Coordinated lighting scenarios can also be selected.
Optional, particularly back-friendly Ergo seats, which among other things offer an electric massage function, are available for the first time in a ŠKODA. In the top version, they can also be ventilated and bear the seal of approval of the German Campaign for Healthier Backs. The optional head-up display is another first for a ŠKODA. It projects the most important information such as speed, navigation, detected traffic signs and activated driver assistance systems directly onto the – optionally heated – windscreen. The 4.2-inch, multifunction Maxi DOT 16-colour display comes as standard. Tri-zone Climatronic makes its debut in the OCTAVIA. Using the optional keyless vehicle entry system (KESSY), now any one of the car’s four doors can be opened first. The standard equipment also includes electric side windows and an electromechanical parking brake. The ŠKODA OCTAVIA is now also available with acoustic side windows at the front, which reduce road noise in the cabin even further.
The new OCTAVIA is the first ŠKODA ever to use shift-by-wire technology for operating the DSG, which electronically transmits the driver’s gear selection to the transmission. In place of the familiar DSG lever, there is therefore a new control module located in the centre console with a small rocker switch for selecting the drive modes as well as a button for the parking mode. Innovative full LED matrix headlights are available as an option, allowing the driver to leave the high beam on at all times without dazzling other road users. Full LED tail lights featuring crystalline elements and dynamic indicators are another option. A whole range of new safety systems such as Collision Avoidance Assist, Turn Assist, Exit Warning and the local Traffic Warning function are also making their debut at ŠKODA. Other new features for the OCTAVIA include Area View, Side Assist and Predictive Cruise Control, which – together with the updated version of Traffic Sign Recognition and the further improved Lane Assist, as well as Traffic Jam Assist and Emergency Assist – forms the comprehensive Travel Assist system. Using Hands-on Detect, this system also checks whether the driver is touching the steering wheel consistently. Up to nine airbags, including a driver knee airbag and rear side airbags, protect occupants in the event of a collision.
Never before has the OCTAVIA been as efficient, eco-friendly and available with as many alternative powertrains as in its fourth generation. For the first time, the line-up includes a plug-in hybrid, the OCTAVIA iV. Some of the petrol engines, which have been further optimised, are now equipped with innovative mild hybrid technology, while the diesel engines come from the latest EVO generation and emit up to 80 per cent less nitrogen oxide. The wide range of powertrains deliver from 81 kW (110 PS) to 150 kW (204 PS). With 17.7 kg of natural gas (CNG) in its tanks, the OCTAVIA G-TEC can cover up to 523 km in its eco-friendly and efficient CNG mode. In the OCTAVIA iV, a 1.4 TSI petrol engine and an electric motor deliver a combined power output of 150 kW (204 PS). With a capacity of 37 Ah providing 13 kWh of energy, the high-voltage lithium-ion battery allows for an all-electric range of up to 55 km in the WLTP cycle. The eTEC variants fitted with latest EVO-generation 1.0 TSI or 1.5 TSI petrol engines feature mild hybrid technology when equipped with DSG. Using a 48-volt belt-driven starter motor and a 48-volt lithium-ion battery, it is possible to recover brake energy, support the combustion engine by providing it with an electric boost, and to coast with the engine completely switched off. The EVO diesel engines apply a new ‘twin dosing’ exhaust gas treatment, where AdBlue® is injected specifically in front of the two catalytic converters that are arranged one after the other. Dynamic Chassis Control including Driving Mode Select, which is optional, now comes with slider controls within the different driving modes, allowing the driver to change individual parameters such as the suspension, damping and steering characteristics or the operation of the DSG to suit their preferences.
The OCTAVIA offers a choice of four infotainment systems from the latest generation with screens measuring from 8.25 to 10 inches. Some of them can be operated using gesture control or by voice via the Laura ŠKODA Digital Assistant. The top-of-the-range Columbus infotainment system can – for the first time – display the navigation system’s maps in a different level of zoom than the 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit (which, by the way, has also been further improved, making it even more user-friendly). This new function can be adjusted via an innovative touch slider located below the display, which can also be used to control the volume. Thanks to a built-in eSIM, the OCTAVIA is always online; access to the latest ŠKODA Connect mobile online services is therefore always possible. These include eCall, which is mandatory in the EU, comprehensive remote vehicle access and infotainment apps backed by online data. The car features up to five USB-C ports for charging or connecting media devices and USB sticks, one of which can optionally be housed in the overhead console above the rear-view mirror. Older devices with a USB-A 3.0 port can easily be connected using the USB-C to USB-A 3.0 adapter from the ŠKODA Genuine Accessories range. Furthermore, smartphones can be charged inductively, using the optional Phone Box. Finally, the acoustically optimised interior and the new optional CANTON sound system ensure a perfect audio experience.
For diesel cars, the range of the brand-typical Simply Clever features now also includes a convenient filler tube for AdBlue®, enabling it to be filled up using a lorry pump nozzle too. In the rear, two smartphone storage pockets on the front seatbacks are making their debut at ŠKODA. The Sleep package for the back seat is now also an optional extra for the OCTAVIA COMBI. In addition, new retractable sun blinds for the rear side windows make it possible to block out the light. There is a multifunction storage pocket below the boot cover in both the hatchback and the OCTAVIA COMBI; the latter will also feature an automatically retractable load cover. The storage compartment with an umbrella and hand brush in the front doors is new. The funnel integrated into the lid of the windscreen washer tank is yet another new feature in the OCTAVIA.
› ŠKODA OCTAVIA now also available as a plug-in hybrid or mild hybrid
› The latest EVO-generation diesel engines emit up to 80 per cent less nitrogen oxide
› All-wheel drive and four chassis options, including Dynamic Chassis Control with Driving Mode Select
The fourth generation of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA is not only more economical and eco-friendlier, it also comes with a greater choice of alternative drive systems than ever before. For the first time, there is a plug-in-hybrid variant, the OCTAVIA iV. Some of the petrol engines, which have been further optimised, are now equipped with mild hybrid technology, and the diesel engines come from the latest EVO generation and emit up to 80 per cent less nitrogen oxide. The line-up also includes a variant powered by natural gas (CNG), the OCTAVIA G-TEC. There is a choice of four chassis variants, and of course, the new OCTAVIA is available with all-wheel drive.
“When we developed the new OCTAVIA, our focus was on lowering fuel consumption as well as CO₂ and NOx emissions. In addition to the OCTAVIA G-TEC, which runs on natural gas, we now – for the first time – also offer a plug-in hybrid, the OCTAVIA iV. The OCTAVIA eTEC features new mild hybrid technology, which helps to reduce consumption. And thanks to the application of a new ‘twin dosing’ method of exhaust gas treatment, the latest EVO-generation diesel engines emit around 80 per cent less nitrogen oxide.”
Christian Strube, ŠKODA AUTO Board Member for Technical Development
The new OCTAVIA comes with advanced, modern TDI and TSI engines as well as significantly improved aerodynamics, which not only reduces fuel consumption but also exhaust emissions. The SCR exhaust gas treatment now featuring two catalytic converters has been further optimised, which means that nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions generated by the diesel engines from the latest EVO generation have been reduced by up to 80 per cent. Using what is known as ‘twin dosing’, AdBlue® is specifically injected in front of two SCR catalytic converters that are arranged one after the other. As a result, the EVO engines fulfil the technical preconditions for the future Euro 6d emissions standard.
But that’s not it, two TSI petrol engines are celebrating their ŠKODA premiere – they are also of the latest EVO generation and feature mild hybrid technology – and as another first, the OCTAVIA can now also be ordered as a plug-in hybrid. The wide range of powertrains deliver from 81 kW (110 PS) to 150 kW (204 PS) is complemented by the OCTAVIA G-TEC, which runs on natural gas (CNG). Depending on the engine type, the fourth-generation OCTAVIA can, of course, either be fitted with a manual or DSG transmission, customers can opt for four-wheel drive if desired, and there is a choice of four chassis variants, including Dynamic Chassis Control with Driving Mode Select.
Following in the footsteps of the SUPERB iV, the OCTAVIA iV is the second ŠKODA model to be available as a plug-in hybrid. This powertrain features a 1.4 TSI petrol engine delivering 115 kW (156 PS) and a 75-kW electric motor. Together, they produce a total power output of 150 kW (204 PS) and have a maximum torque of 350 Nm. The plug-in-hybrid variant has been equipped with a 6-speed DSG. The OCTAVIA iV will be available in any of the trim levels and models except Active and SCOUT. While the hatchback’s boot capacity is 450 l, the COMBI can hold 490 l. With a capacity of 37 Ah providing 13 kWh, the high-voltage lithium-ion battery allows for an electric range of up to 55 km in the WLTP cycle. The battery can be recharged conveniently at home from a standard household socket or wall box; the connector for charging the battery is hidden behind a flap in the wing on the driver’s side, which can be opened at the push of a button in the door trim. Other differences between the OCTAVIA iV and the variants that are driven solely by a combustion engine include a slightly smaller petrol tank (40 l instead of 45 l), the iV badge on the tailgate and the 10-inch central screen with an iV welcome logo and model-specific displays.
As the first ŠKODA to do so, the new OCTAVIA is available in two eTEC variants with mild hybrid technology. When fitted with a 7-speed DSG, the three-cylinder 1.0 TSI producing 81 kW (110 PS) and the four-cylinder 1.5 TSI outputting 110 kW (150 PS) make use of a 48-volt belt-driven starter motor and a 48-volt lithium-ion battery. This makes it possible to recover energy during braking and store it in the battery, support the combustion engine by providing it with an electric boost, and coast with the engine completely switched off. This, in addition to the commonly used stop/start technology, reduces fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions even further. An additional benefit is that the engine can start more quietly and with fewer vibrations. Vehicles featuring mild hybrid technology can be identified by an eTEC badge.
The OCTAVIA is particularly environmentally friendly as a G-TEC, powered by natural gas. Compared to a car running on petrol, the OCTAVIA G-TEC produces yet again around 25 per cent less CO₂, significantly less nitrogen oxide (NOx) and no soot particles. The 1.5 TSI engine outputting 96 kW (130 PS) consumes 3.4 to 3.6 kg of natural gas per 100 km in CNG mode and 5.4 l of petrol per 100 km in petrol mode. The total capacity of the three CNG tanks is 17.7 kg, enabling the car to cover up to 523 km. Another 278 km can be covered when also making use of its 9-litre petrol tank, meaning that the OCTAVIA G-TEC can travel more than 800 km without any refuelling stops. The hatchback’s boot can hold 455 l, the COMBI’s boot capacity is 495 l. The G-TEC badge at the rear and a model-specific Virtual Cockpit are the distinguishing features of this natural-gas model.
Besides the standard chassis, there is a choice of two other options for the OCTAVIA: a 15-mm-lower sports suspension and a Rough Road chassis providing 15 mm more ground clearance. Dynamic Chassis Control, available as an option, constantly adjusts the suspension and damping, and features Driving Mode Select. Using the slider controls within the various driving modes, the driver can now – for the first time – change individual parameters such as the suspension, damping and steering characteristics or the operation of the DSG to suit their preferences. When fitted with Dynamic Chassis Control, all variants are lowered by 10 mm; however, the plug-in-hybrid variant’s ground clearance remains unchanged.
› The new OCTAVIA is the first ever ŠKODA to use shift-by-wire technology to operate its DSG transmission
› Full LED Matrix headlights and full LED tail lights with dynamic indicators are optional
› Other premieres include Collision Avoidance Assist, Turn Assist and Exit Warning
ŠKODA has equipped the fourth-generation OCTAVIA with numerous new technologies and innovative assistance systems that are making their debut in a production vehicle of the Czech brand. This includes shift-by-wire technology for operating the DSG as well as new systems for further increasing safety, such as Collision Avoidance Assist, Turn Assist and Exit Warning. Yet more premieres for the OCTAVIA include full LED Matrix headlights, Side Assist and Emergency Assist as well as Predictive Cruise Control and Area View.
The new OCTAVIA is the first ŠKODA ever to use shift-by-wire technology to operate its DSG. The gear selector is no longer connected to the gearbox mechanically. Instead, it relays which gear has been chosen electronically. This saves space and offers new design options. In place of the familiar DSG lever, the centre console has therefore been provided with a new control module featuring a small rocker switch for selecting the drive modes – R (reverse), N (neutral) and D/S (drive/sport) – as well as a button for the parking mode, P.
› The fourth-generation OCTAVIA is even bigger and a real miracle of space
› Clear surfaces and sculptural elements combined with excellent aerodynamics
› Headlights and tail lights featuring LED technology and alloys measuring up to 19 inches
The fourth generation of the OCTAVIA is bigger and, thanks to the new proportions and ŠKODA design language, even more emotive and dynamic than its successful predecessor. The new front apron, narrower headlights and newly designed, shallow roof rails emphasise the elongated silhouette of the OCTAVIA COMBI, while the hatchback looks as elegant as a coupé. All in all, the new ŠKODA OCTAVIA radiates self-confidence and quality.
“With the new OCTAVIA, in addition to the emotive and sculptural elements of the current ŠKODA design language, we paid particular attention to elegant and dynamic proportions whilst further improving the amount of interior space. The elongated silhouette and the large wheels measuring up to 19 inches lend the OCTAVIA a powerful appearance.”
Oliver Stefani, Head of ŠKODA AUTO Design
› Multi-level dashboard with one-touch keys for important functions
› Newly designed, convenient, two-spoke steering wheel featuring knurled scroll wheels
› Door trims in a new design and LED ambient lighting with more options
ŠKODA has redesigned the interior concept of its brand icon. In addition to the free-standing, central screen and new, even higher-quality materials, the OCTAVIA is the first ŠKODA production model to be equipped with a new multi-level dashboard and a newly designed two-spoke steering wheel. A novel touch control slider below the 10-inch variant of the central display, selected one-touch keys for important vehicle functions as well as buttons and knurled scroll wheels on the multifunction steering wheel improve ergonomics and simplify operation.
The ŠKODA designers have provided the fourth-generation OCTAVIA with an all-new interior. The new steering wheel has been reduced to two spokes, can be heated as an option, and features a chrome trim. If ordered as a multifunction variant, the control buttons have been completely rearranged and, together with new chrome knurled scroll wheels, make operation even easier. A total of 14 different functions can be carried out using the buttons and wheels, including – for the first time –activating the optional heating for the steering wheel and operating Travel Assist. A three-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel is available as an option.
› Head-up display projects important information in clear view of the driver as an option
› Ergonomic seats available for the first time – top version with ventilation and seal of approval of the German Campaign for Healthier Backs
› Electromechanical parking brake and electric windows as standard, debut for tri-zone Climatronic air conditioning as an optional extra
ŠKODA has equipped the new OCTAVIA with numerous safety and comfort features usually reserved for higher-tier vehicles. The head-up display, for example, that projects the most important information directly onto the windscreen in clear view of the driver, is making its debut at ŠKODA. Other new features include various optional ergonomic seats, the top-of-the-range variants being ventilated and bearing the seal of approval of the German Campaign for Healthier Backs.
The OCTAVIA’s new head-up display is a first at ŠKODA. It is available as an optional extra from the Style trim level upwards. This innovative feature increases both safety and comfort by projecting the most important information such as speed, navigation, detected traffic signs and activated driver assistance systems directly onto the windscreen, in clear view of the driver. This allows them to read such information without taking their eyes off the road. The Maxi DOT multifunction display comes as standard in every OCTAVIA, presenting information on a 4.2-inch screen in up to 16 colours.
› New 10-inch display with innovative touch slider for volume adjustment
› Latest generation of the optional Virtual Cockpit with a 10.25-inch screen
› Optional media streaming and CANTON sound system with twelve loudspeakers
The new ŠKODA OCTAVIA has been equipped with systems from the latest generation of the modular infotainment matrix and offers supreme connectivity. There is a choice of four different infotainment systems with touchscreens measuring up to 10 inches. An innovative touch slider for adjusting the volume or the section of the navigation system’s map celebrates its premiere. For the first time, maps can be shown in the central display and in the latest generation of the Virtual Cockpit in different levels of zoom.
There is a choice of four different infotainment systems from Volkswagen Group’s latest-generation modular infotainment matrix. Even Swing, the entry-level system, comes with an 8.25-inch touchscreen that can be personalised and with a DAB tuner. Smartphones can be paired via wireless SmartLink technology and Android Auto, Apple CarPlay or MirrorLink™, offering access to infotainment apps such as weather or news apps. To this end, the OCTAVIA is always online thanks to its in-built eSIM. Both the Bolero infotainment system, for which a navigation function can be activated at a later stage, and the Amundsen navigation system have a 10-inch touchscreen. They can be operated using gesture control or verbally using the Laura ŠKODA Digital Assistant, who understands fluently spoken complete sentences in six different languages. The maps are updated online, Internet radio and streaming services for music and TV, such as the optional ŠKODA Media Command, are also available. The top-of-the-range Columbus infotainment system also has a 10-inch screen and can display the navigation system’s maps in a different level of zoom than the Virtual Cockpit. This new function can be adjusted using the innovative touch slider below the display, which also controls the volume.
› Making its debut at ŠKODA: convenient refilling of AdBlue® using a lorry pump nozzle as well
› Two smartphone storage pockets and new SigmaQuick boot nets
› OCTAVIA now also available with optional Sleep package and hand brush in the door storage compartment
ŠKODA has extended the list of its brand-typical Simply Clever features available for the new OCTAVIA to offer the driver and passengers the highest degree of functionality and comfort. The convenient filler tube for AdBlue®, enabling it to be filled up using a lorry pump nozzle too, is a brand-new feature. The two smartphone storage pockets on the front seatbacks are also a first at ŠKODA.
The Sleep package, which can also be found in other ŠKODA models, is now making its debut in the OCTAVIA COMBI as well, giving the back seat two comfortable, larger headrests and a blanket. In addition, new retractable sun blinds for the rear side windows allow for the light to be blocked out. The new SigmaQuick boot nets are better and more convenient to use as the nets are particularly easy to open. There is a multifunction storage pocket – for stowing a coat, for example – below the boot cover in the hatchback, while the OCTAVIA COMBI features an automatically retractable load cover. Child safety locks for the rear doors can be operated electrically, there is therefore no need to get out of the car to do so. The storage compartment with an umbrella or hand brush in the front doors is new.
OCTAVIA HISTORY
› Production of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA commenced in 1959
› In April 1996, the first new-generation OCTAVIA succeeded the original
› A clear bestseller among ŠKODA’s model line-up with more than 6.5 million OCTAVIAs sold across all generations
The ŠKODA OCTAVIA is celebrating 60 years since its start of production. The first units of this legendary model range rolled off the production line at the plant in Mladá Boleslav in January 1959. In the mid-1990s, the first OCTAVIAs of the modern-day generation inherited the legacy from the popular compact car.
Sixty years ago, the distinguished ‘OCTAVIA’ name enhanced the ŠKODA portfolio for the first time. The fact that the name was derived from the Latin word ‘octavia’ was no coincidence. The term means ‘the eighth’ – the then newcomer was the brand’s eighth model since the Second World War as well as the eighth ŠKODA to feature the state-of-the-art independent suspension for all wheels that the manufacturer had introduced in 1933.
In January 1959, the first two-door ŠKODA OCTAVIA rolled off the line at the main plant in Mladá Boleslav, where for the first weeks of production it was manufactured alongside its predecessors, the Š 440 and Š 445. Under its bonnet, the OCTAVIA featured a robust in-line, four-cylinder 1.1-litre engine with a power output of 29.4 kW (40 PS), which was transferred to the rear wheels via a four-speed gearbox. It had a top speed of 110 km/h and an average fuel consumption of 7.7 l per 100 km. The attractive, flowing body design was impressive, as were its driving characteristics. Technical innovations such as the front axle with coil springs and a torsion bar stabiliser gave the OCTAVIA a high level of riding comfort and pleasant handling. The introduction of asymmetric headlights over the course of 1959 saw an increase in active safety. The same year, ŠKODA also launched a more powerful variant – the OCTAVIA SUPER – which boasted a 1.2-litre engine outputting 33 kW (45 PS). The OCTAVIA models were soon in demand both at home and abroad.
The Geneva Motor Show on 10 March 1960 saw the premiere of the sporty ŠKODA OCTAVIA Touring Sport (TS) variant, which arrived with an increased power output of 37 kW (50 PS). ŠKODA put the TS forward for homologation by the International Automobile Federation (FIA) for use in races and rallies in the category for unmodified road cars. Once approved, the way was clear for the two-door, which could reach speeds of up to 130 km/h, to enter the world of motorsport. With class victories in 1961, 1962 and 1963, the OCTAVIA TS secured a hat trick at the Monte Carlo Rally.
The two-door saloon continued to be produced until 1964 – the last unit rolled off the line in Mladá Boleslav on 11 April. ŠKODA launched the completely new range of 1000/1100 MB models featuring a unibody design and a rear-mounted engine as the direct successor. The last OCTAVIA COMBI left the plant in Kvasiny on 21 December 1971. A total of 360,000 OCTAVIAs were manufactured between 1959 and 1971, including more than 54,000 estate variants.
In 1966, the rugged and reliable OCTAVIA also provided the technical basis for the first car designed and built in New Zealand: the TREKKA was the result of close collaboration with the Czech car manufacturer and had a shortened version of the OCTAVIA SUPER’s chassis as a base. The popular multipurpose vehicle is regarded as one of the predecessors to ŠKODA’s current range of SUVs.
By no later than the debut of the first new-generation OCTAVIA, the model name had become synonymous with the entire brand. In 1992 – shortly after ŠKODA had become part of Volkswagen Group – development started on a completely new car that harked back to the legendary model name. On a modern, technical platform the team, led by then Head of Design Dirk van Braeckel, created bodywork with an unmistakable design. The OCTAVIA hatchback featuring a large tailgate made its debut on 4 April 1996 and immediately impressed with a high level of active and passive safety. Offering a boot capacity of 528 to 1,328 litres, the car boasted a particularly generous amount of space. In March 1998, the even more spacious OCTAVIA COMBI, which was particularly successful in Europe, was added to the range; the first all-wheel-drive variant followed in 1999. By November 2010, 970,000 hatchbacks and more than 470,000 estates of the first-generation OCTAVIA had been sold.
This success was topped by the second generation of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA, which was built between 2004 and 2013, with 1.6 million customers choosing the hatchback and 900,000 the estate. In addition to an even higher level of utility, this generation impressed with many technical innovations, most notably the petrol engines with direct injection and the automatic dual-clutch transmission (DSG). Today, the third-generation OCTAVIA forms the backbone of ŠKODA AUTO’s portfolio. It has been manufactured since November 2012 and was given a comprehensive update in 2017. More than 2.5 million customers have already opted for this generation of the OCTAVIA.
The ŠKODA OCTAVIA established a firm position for itself in many markets long ago. The figure of around 6.5 million vehicles produced since 1959 is an impressive demonstration of this.
