Skoda Octavia to be launched on October 3 in India

As the launch date of new Skoda Octavia closes in, a wave of restlessness can be felt among customers and car enthusiasts of the country. Sources close to the development press have revealed that the model will be launched on 3rd October, 2013. The price of this new car is expected to be pitched between Rs. 14 lakh and Rs. 18.5 lakh. This 3rd generation model will come equipped with enhanced interiors and appealing exteriors, in order to get more domestic attention. Consequently, its manufacturer is hoping a good post-launch response in India. It is expected that the customers would be able to avail this vehicle with several engine options like 1.8-litre turbo petrol engine, 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine and smaller 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine.

Skoda Octavia to be launched on October 9 in India

Industry experts are of a view that the exteriors of upcoming Skoda Octavia have been polished a slightly more to achieve the distinctive and defined stance. Neat and visible curves all over the metal frame look modernised. Front fascia is marked by a brand logo and tapering bonnet that leads to the front grille with chrome surrounds and stylish headlamps. The new Octavia is anticipated to offer more comfort and space to its passengers; thanks to an increase in length, width and wheelbase of this sedan. Notably, the length of this vehicle has gone up to to 4.6 meters from 4.5 meters while the width has increase from 1.7 meters to 1.8 meters. The wheelbase has been increased by 108 mm to offer more space in the inner cabin. However, it must be noted that despite of many changes in dimensions, the new Octavia will be around 102 kg lighter as compared to the previous generation models. This feat has been achieved with the use of parent company Volkswagen’s MQB platform in designing this sedan.

The vehicle has been given a classy appearance by virtue of a unique and stylised front fascia. This sedan will feature stylish fog lamps to further enhance the appeal and utility of this vehicle. These fog lamps will assist driving in foggy weather with low visibility. Powerful and focused halogen lights have been provided on the front while the rear comes with normal lights. However, Skoda has retained its signature ‘C’ shaped tail lights in both trims. While comparing the side profile of this new Octavia with old units, there are not many significant visible changes made by the auto maker except for the modified wheel arches. Wheels too have been slightly modified for a better look.

Interiors of this sedan have been redefined with the addition of highly sought after new touch screen and audio unit, which is compatible with USB, Bluetooth, SD card and iPod connectivity. Among other revamps done to this sedan are adaptive cruise control, a new electro-panoramic sunroof, optional keyless entry and automatic door and ignition system. It is also expected that this new sedan will come with parking assist system and 12-way adjustable seats. However, there is still a little information about rear air conditioner vents. Notably, European version comes with the facility of rear vents and if, the auto maker does go ahead to incorporate the same, customers and car enthusiasts would certainly feel quite ecstatic as the comfort levels will spice-up with such a desirable add on.

Safety and security aspects of this sedan are also well taken care of with the implementation of several high-end features. As such, this sedan is expected to get safety features like four (may be six) airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Anti Stability Regulator (ASR), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and Tyre Pressure Monitor (TPM).

The new Octavia is expected to make its arrival in four petrol and four diesel engine trims. The petrol version will get power from a 1.4-litre TSI engine with two states of tune, namely 120 bhp and 138 bhp. In addition, bigger petrol units will be incorporated with a powerful 1.8-litre TSI engine with a power output of 177 bhp and vRS version is likely to use a 2.0-litre TSI engine. Diesel variants are expected to get either a 1.6-litre TDI engine with a power output of 103 bhp and 108 bhp or a 2.0-litre TDI engine offering an output of 147 bhp and 181 bhp. As per industry experts, the new Skoda Octavia can prove to be breather for its manufacturer as a lot of customers and car enthusiasts are waiting impatiently for it.