Skoda has revealed its new Octavia, with the latest generation due to be available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The popular hatchback and estate will be fitted with the VW Group’s latest PHEV set-up. This sees a 1.4 litre TSI petrol engine work with an electric motor for a combined power output of 204hp. The 75 kW electric motor is powered by a 13 kWh battery, which Skoda says is good for an electric-only range of 34 miles on a single charge.
Performance and fuel economy specifications are yet to be announced, but the Octavia iV plug-in hybrid will join the forthcoming Skoda Superb iV PHEV and pure-electric Citigo-e in the electrified line-up.
The interior features a significantly redesigned cabin, with a greater focus on technology. A new infotainment screen and steering wheel are the most obvious changes, though there are more subtle improvements too, such as the USB-C only sockets, wireless phone charging, and in-built connectivity. Head-up display, gesture control and a new voice control assistant – which Skoda calls Laura – are included on certain trim levels.
It wouldn’t be a Skoda without some clever little ideas that make a difference to day-to-day life. For example, the rear seat pockets have a small pouch added to hold things like a mobile phone, without it dropping all the way to the bottom of the conventional pocket. There’s also an in-built funnel for refilling the screen wash, a storage pocket below the boot cover, and the addition of an umbrella and hand brush in the front doors.
The new Octavia is a little longer than the outgoing models – around 2cm for both estate and hatch – and is slightly wider too. This frees up occupant space in what was a far from squashed interior in the previous model.
