Czech auto-maker Skoda Auto has unveiled a facelifted version of Octavia sedan that will go on sale by the end of 2016. The new version is the mid-life facelift for the third generation of the Octavia launched in 2013.
The major rework in the new Octavia has been done to its face. It comes with split headlight design that reminds the Mercedes E-Class W212. The new headlight optionally comes with full LED technology that replaces bi-xenon and LED daytime running lights combination of the pre-facelift version.
The bumper and the foglamps have been tweaked to incorporate the changes at front. Whether these changes on the face of the Octavia will go down well with the customer remains to be seen. Octavia is Skoda's best-selling model by far.
The side and rear profile of the car is largely remains untouched. Tail lamp's design has been carried over while inlays inside the cluster have been reworked to complement changes at front.
The facelifted version also comes with newly designed alloy wheels. The interior has been updated with Columbus infotainment system featuring a larger 9.2-inch touchscreen display. The top system has a WLAN hotspot and optional SIM card module with an LTE speed for faster internet connection.
Other features added in the new Octavia include a customizable key that allows multiple users to save their own vehicle settings, a heated steering wheel, folding tables on the back of the front seats, bottle holders, and the estate version features a removable torch in the boot.
Under-the-hood, Octavia will continue to be offered with five TSI and four TDI engines with improved fuel efficiency for global markets. The arrival of the new version in India is expected in 2017 and it will feature two petrol and a 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine options. All the engines will be mated to a manual transmission standard, while the dual-clutch DSG automatic will be offered as an option.
