The new Škoda Octavia: spaciousness and dynamics

Too bad finally introduced the fifth generation Octavia. The Czech cousin of the Golf is still among the larger ones in the segment, as it has even been lengthened by 19 mm (the Combi version by 22 mm) and widened by 15 mm. This means that the volume of the trunk in the sedan has grown to 600 l, and for the Octavia Combi (wagon) model, on 640 l.

With new optional LED headlights, the new Octavia has a more premium look than its predecessor. Rear lights that somewhat resemble Škoda Scala, they are dynamic and "dance" a little when you turn on the turn signals or lock/unlock the car (sort of like Audi). The rest of the exterior remains quite recognizable with the addition of the ŠKODA logo on the trunk, which now accompanies all Škoda models.

Inside, changes from new VW Golf somehow they also know pri to Octavia. It is available 10-inch infotainment system, which is now installed on the dashboard at the same height as the driver's counters. It's just below the screen touch bar, which allows you to control some of the settings, such as the volume of the sound or the enlargement of the navigation map. Octavia is also the first Škoda with the option projection screen, which projects all important information directly onto the windshield. If you opt for a model equipped with an automatic transmission, the clumsy gear lever of the previous Octavia will be replaced by a small "selector", thanks to technology inherited from the Golf. Fantastic new two-spoke steering wheel, which will enable as many as 14 functions, may remind you of the one from the Mercedes S Class.

The choice of engines is, of course, the same as for the Golf. "The fastest" Octavia will be a DSG 2.0 TSI that develops 190 KM and 320 Nm, which will propel it from 0-100 km/h in 6,9 seconds. Perhaps more important are the 1.0 TSI units, which develop 110 KM and four-cylinder 1.5 TSI s 150 hp. This is because they are available in an electrified version under the label "e-TEC". Diesel fans will only have one engine available, but in three versions. The 2.0 TDI will be available with 116 KM, 150 KM and 200 KM, with a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG gearbox.

Such as Golf GTE the new Octavia will be available with a plug-in hybrid system. With a six-speed DSG gearbox and a 13 kWh battery pack that offers an electric range 55 kilometers will be an excellent choice for anyone who wants to save on gasoline. Keep in mind, however, that the hybrid drive will have a negative impact on trunk volume, which will drop to 450 liters for the sedan and 470 liters for the wagon.

Gallery: New Škoda Octavia