Skoda Octavia Combi (2020)

Head-up display making its debut and particularly back-friendly Ergo seats

Optional, particularly back-friendly Ergo seats, which among other things offer an electric massage function, are celebrating their ŠKODA premiere. In the top version, they can also be ventilated and bear the seal of approval from 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 - if desired, heated - windscreen. Tri-zone Climatronic is making 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.

DSG with shift-by-wire technology and optional full LED Matrix headlights

The new Octavia is the first ŠKODA ever to use shift-by-wire technology to operate 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, dynamic indicators and the animated Coming/Leaving Home function 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 as well as Adaptive Lane Assist, 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.

New alternative powertrains and efficient engines

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, as well as the Octavia RS iV. 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 electric range of up to 60 km in the WLTP cycle. 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 plethora of powertrains deliver outputs ranging 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.

The e-TEC variants fitted with either of the 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 2.0 TDI EVO diesel engines apply a new 'twin dosing' exhaust gas treatment, where AdBlue® is injected specifically in front of the two catalytic converters, which 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.

Latest infotainment systems and an enhanced Virtual Cockpit

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.

The Octavia is always online thanks to a built-in eSIM, enabling access to the latest ŠKODA Connect mobile online services at all times. 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: two in the front centre console for charging or connecting media devices and USB sticks, and a further three, one of which can optionally be housed in the overhead console above the rear-view mirror for charging only. 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.

Innovative Simply Clever features

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 Škoda 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 feature an automatically retractable load cover too. The storage compartment in the front doors can now also feature a snow brush instead of the familiar umbrella. The funnel integrated into the lid of the windscreen washer tank is yet another new feature in the Octavia.

Exterior: improved proportions and even more space

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 Škoda Octavia Combi, while the hatchback looks as elegant as a coupé. All in all, the new Škoda Octavia radiates self-confidence and quality.

Oliver Stefani, Head of ŠKODA AUTO Design, said, "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."

At 4,689 mm, the new Škoda Octavia Combi is 22 mm longer than its predecessor, whilst the hatchback has gained 19 mm (also measuring 4,689 mm in length). At 1,829 mm, they are both 15 mm wider; their wheelbases measure 2,686 mm. The Octavia's increased length and width bring out its self-assured appearance. What's more, the familiar, impressive amount of interior space is even more generous, turning the ŠKODA icon into the most amazing miracle of space yet. Having gained 5 mm, the ample kneeroom in the rear is now 78 mm. The COMBI's boot capacity, which is the largest in the segment, has increased by another 30 l to 640 l. The hatchback can now hold 600 l - 10 l more than before.

New ŠKODA design language with sculptural elements and clear surfaces

The new front apron and the razor-sharp, narrower, new headlights featuring LED technology for the low beam, high beam and daytime running lights as standard are a visual delight. The tail lights, brake lights and fog lights also feature LED technology. The newly designed, shallow roof rails emphasise the elongated silhouette of the Škoda Octavia Combi, while the hatchback looks almost like a coupé. The latest developments in ŠKODA's design language are characterised by sculptural elements, precise lines and modern, clear surfaces, and lend the car an authentic as well as dynamic appearance, creating a high-quality look.

Excellent aerodynamics, reducing CO2 emissions and fuel consumption

The new design not only sharpens the Škoda Octavia's visual appearance, it also enables excellent aerodynamics. With a drag coefficient (cd) from 0.24 for the hatchback and from 0.26 for the COMBI, the new Octavia is one of the most aerodynamic cars in its segment in the world. The improved aerodynamics also result in fewer CO2 emissions and lower fuel consumption. Alloy wheels with a diameter of up to 19 inches (665 mm with the tyres fitted) lend all of the model variants a powerful appearance. Crystal Black, Lava Blue and Titan Blue have been newly added to the range of paint finishes; a Chrome and a Dynamic package are optional extras for the Ambition and Style trim levels.

Interior: new design improves ergonomics and appearance

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.

Multi-level dashboard

The dashboard is modular and has been arranged in different levels. Below the large and free-standing central display, a colour-contrasting area cites the line of the ŠKODA grille. In the lower part, there is the new centre console, which is characterised by an elegant and very clear design. The one-touch keys for important vehicle functions such as Driving Mode Select or Park Assist have been moved up below the central display. Chrome elements adorn the centre console and the door trims, which feature door handles in a new design. The front door trims are now partially perforated, the operating button for the electrically adjustable wing mirrors is now located on the armrest next to the buttons for the electric windows. Both the doors and dashboard are made of new and soft-touch materials to create a particularly high-quality look.

New options for the LED ambient lighting

The new LED ambient lighting in the Škoda Octavia is a visual delight, indirectly illuminating the front doors, dashboard and footwells. The driver can choose from up to 30 RGB colours and assign a different colour to the dashboard and front doors than to the footwells. In addition, individual mood tiles can also be selected, which bundle colours and the type of back-lighting to create coordinated light scenarios such as dawn, sun or clouds. By opting for ambient lighting, drivers will also benefit from ŠKODA lettering projected onto the ground next to the front doors whenever they are opened.

Comfort & safety: head-up display and ergonomic seats make their debut

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 two types of optional ergonomic seats, the top of-the-range variants being ventilated and bearing the seal of approval from 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 for the driver. It works using an imaging unit which creates pictures based on data to be displayed, such as speed, navigation, detected traffic signs and activated driver assistance systems. The resulting pictures are then presented in clear view of the driver using an optics module that projects directly onto the windscreen. This allows them to read such information without taking their eyes off the road.

Particularly back-friendly seats as an option

For the first time, ŠKODA is offering particularly back-friendly seats as an option in the new Octavia. They are available from the Ambition trim level upwards and come with electronically adjustable lumbar support as well as an electric massage function. Their length and height can be adjusted - even in their entry-level variant; heating is optional. In addition to the heated seats, which are standard, and electric seat adjustment including a memory function, the top version of the ergonomic seats - available as an option for Style - not only bears the seal of approval from the German Campaign for Healthier Backs but also features perforated leather upholstery with ventilation and an electric massage function.

Tri-zone Climatronic air conditioning and KESSY for all doors

The new edition of the Czech car manufacturer's bestselling model is, depending on the trim level, equipped with a manual or the dual-zone Climatronic air conditioning system as standard. Tri-zone Climatronic is available as a new optional extra. The heated windscreen is another option and uses a thin, conductive silver film. The optional KESSY keyless vehicle entry system will provide even more comfort in future, allowing any one of the Octavia's four doors to be opened first. All of the new models now come with a convenient button for starting the engine, four electric side windows and - making its debut at ŠKODA - 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.

New technology: shift-by-wire, full LED Matrix headlights as well as numerous new safety assistance systems

ŠKODA has equipped the fourth-generation Octavia with numerous new technologies and innovative assistance systems that are making their debut in a production vehicle from 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.

Full LED Matrix headlights as an option

The latest edition of the brand's bestseller can now also be ordered with innovative full LED Matrix headlights, each containing a separate module for the low beam and high beam. Each module features 22 LEDs which can be controlled individually to generate a light beam consisting of several segments. A camera on the windscreen detects vehicles as well as people and objects reflecting the light, and the intelligent lighting technology then automatically turns off individual segments of the light beam. This allows drivers to have the high beam on at all times without dazzling other road users. The headlights also provide different lighting modes for various situations and weather conditions, such as driving in the city, on the motorway or in the rain. The optional full LED tail lights include illuminated crystalline elements, dynamic indicators and an animated Coming/Leaving Home function which is activated by locking/unlocking the car.

Innovative assistance systems

Several of the new assistance systems found in the fourth-generation Octavia are making their ŠKODA debut. By actively increasing the steering moment, the new Collision Avoidance Assist helps to prevent an impending collision with a pedestrian, cyclist or other vehicles using a controlled evasive manoeuvre. At junctions, Turn Assist can detect oncoming traffic at an early stage when turning left, warn the driver or automatically stop the vehicle. The Exit Warning system lets the occupants know if another vehicle or a cyclist is approaching from behind when a car door is open. Another new feature is the Local Traffic Warning function, which automatically warns of traffic hold ups in the car's immediate surroundings, such as the end of a traffic jam.

New and improved assistance systems in the Octavia

Many assistance systems are making their debut in the Octavia, while others have been updated. When parking or manoeuvring, the Area View system, available from CW 48/20 (week commencing 23 November 2020), provides an overview of the immediate surroundings. For this, four cameras create a 360-degree image around the vehicle, which is shown on the central display. Side Assist warns the driver of vehicles approaching from behind or that are in the car's blind spot. It monitors an area up to 70 m behind the vehicle and also effectively helps to prevent accidents on motorways and dual carriageways. The system warns the driver by emitting a light on the inside of the wing mirror housings, where it is clearly visible. Side Assist is not active when a trailer or a bicycle carrier is fixed on the tow bar. In urban environments, Front Assist including Predictive Pedestrian and Cyclist Protection warns of collisions visually, acoustically and by gently applying the brakes, slowing the car down when necessary. It detects moving and stationary vehicles in the direction of traffic as well as cyclists and people who are moving in front of the car.

Enhanced Adaptive Cruise Control for even more safety and comfort

Predictive Cruise Control is an updated and enhanced version of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which automatically adjusts the speed of the car based on the vehicles ahead at speeds of up to 210 km/h. In combination with a DSG, ACC has a stop-and-go function, meaning it can bring the car to a standstill and have it pull away again automatically within up to three seconds. The system also brings cars fitted with a manual transmission to a standstill, provided a suitable gear has been selected and the driver disengages the clutch in time. Cruise control will be reactivated once the car has pulled away. The new predictive version also uses images from the camera on the windscreen and data from the navigation system to automatically adjust the speed to suit the road ahead.

Travel Assist: more advanced assistance systems and detection of medical emergencies

The new ACC - together with the updated version of Traffic Sign Recognition and Adaptive Lane Assist (also able to identify roadworks), as well as Traffic Jam Assist and Emergency Assist - forms the comprehensive Travel Assist system. Using Hands-on Detect, Travel Assist also checks whether the driver is touching the steering wheel at least every 15 seconds or whether they no longer have control of the vehicle due to a potential medical emergency. In this case, Emergency Assist activates the car's hazard lights and brings the car to a stop in its lane.

Enhanced proactive Crew Protect Assist: optimal passenger protection in the event of an accident

In the event of an impending accident, the proactive occupant protection system Crew Protect Assist - which has also been enhanced - prepares the car as well as its occupants for the impending head-on or rear-end collision, or even a roll. The front seat belts are tensioned as soon as the system's ESC sensors register sudden braking or the radar sensors at the front of the car detect an impending head-on collision. The new version of the proactive Crew Protect Assist also uses information from a rollover sensor and radar sensors at the rear of the vehicle. If the vehicle starts to skid or threatens to roll over, the system closes the windows to a safety gap of 55 mm and also closes the electric panoramic roof. If the rear radar detects an impending rear-end collision, the proactive Crew Protect Assist activates the hazard lights. In the event of an accident, the occupants are protected by up to nine airbags. Following impact, Multi-Collision Brake brings the vehicle to a stop and prevents it from rolling any further in an uncontrolled manner.

Engines: great choice of efficient powertrains

The fourth generation of the Škoda Octavia is more economical and eco-friendlier than ever before. The efficient diesel engines from the latest EVO generation emit up to 80 per cent less nitrogen oxide (NOx); their CO2 emissions are also lower as they consume less fuel. The petrol engines have been further optimised and some of them - making their debut at ŠKODA - have been equipped with mild hybrid technology. The Octavia iV plug in hybrid is another premiere in the range, and 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.

Christian Strube, ŠKODA AUTO Board Member for Technical Development, said, "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 e-TEC features new mild hybrid technology, which helps to reduce consumption. And thanks to the application of a 'twin dosing' method of exhaust gas treatment, the latest generation of EVO diesel engines emit around 80 per cent less nitrogen oxide."

The new Octavia comes with advanced, modern TDI and TSI engines as well as significantly improved aerodynamics, which not only reduces fuel consumption but exhaust emissions too. The new Octavia also features the new generation of the MQ281 manual gearbox, which reduces CO2 emissions by 1.4 g/km in the WLTP cycle for the 1.5 TSI/110 kW, compared to the previous MQ250 gearbox. Furthermore, the CO2 emissions are 2.4 g/km lower in the WLTP cycle for the 2.0 TDI/110 kW than those of the same engine when paired with the MQ350 gearbox. The engines' power outputs range from 81 kW (110 PS) to 150 kW (204 PS).

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 the two SCR catalytic converters, which are arranged one after the other. As a result, the EVO engines fulfil the technical preconditions for the future Euro 6d emissions standard. There is a choice of three power variants for the new 2.0 TDI used in the Octavia. The entry-level engine has an output of 85 kW (115 PS) and can be coupled with either a manual gearbox or a 7-speed DSG. The variant delivering 110 kW (150 PS) is also available with all-wheel drive, which - together with a 7-speed DSG - is standard for the 147-kW (200-PS) Octavia. In addition to the changes to exhaust gas treatment, the TDI has been refined in other areas too. Among other things, the crankshaft assembly has been made more efficient, which reduces heat losses and thus ensures a higher combustion speed and combustion chamber temperature. Furthermore, the turbocharger now features variable vane geometry. Both of these aspects mean that the 2.0 TDI generating 85 W (115 PS) and 110 kW (150 PS) respectively consume up to 0.4 l less diesel per 100 km than comparable predecessor engines - all while offering more dynamic driving characteristics.

More efficient TSI engines

The Octavias running on petrol now come with engines from the EVO generation too. The four cylinders of the 1.5 TSI produce 110 kW (150 PS), which is transferred to the front wheels via a manual gearbox. It is equipped with Active Cylinder Technology (ACT), which automatically shuts down two cylinders when engine load is low, thus reducing consumption. The three-cylinder 1.0 TSI has an output of 81 kW (110 PS). It also features a turbocharger with variable vane geometry and operates using the fuel-efficient Miller cycle, in which the maximum torque is available 35 per cent earlier than in conventional processes. Coated cylinder liners increase the efficiency of both engines, while an injection pressure of up to 350 bar ensures lower hydraulic losses and a reduced fuel delivery rate. The EVO engines can be fitted in a car with a 7-speed DSG as an e-TEC model featuring mild hybrid technology, which is making its debut at ŠKODA. The range-topping model among the petrol engines is the new generation of the 2.0 TSI delivering 140 kW (190 PS), and for the first time, the line-up also includes a plug-in hybrid, the Octavia iV, which produces 150 kW (204 PS). Of course, the fourth-generation Octavia will also come with a choice of four chassis variants, including Dynamic Chassis Control with Driving Mode Select.

Alternative drive systems in the new Octavia

In addition to being fitted with a classic diesel or petrol engine, the Škoda Octavia is also available with a wide range of alternative drive systems. Following in the footsteps of the SUPERB iV, the Octavia iV is the second ŠKODA to feature plug in hybrid drive, consisting of a 1.4 TSI petrol engine outputting 110 kW (150 PS) and an 85-kW electric motor. The total system output is 150 kW (204 PS), whilst the all-electric range is up to 60 km in the WLTP cycle. The Octavia iV will be available from the Ambition trim level upwards. Two e-TEC models featuring mild hybrid technology are celebrating their premiere at ŠKODA. When fitted with a 7 speed DSG, the 1.0 TSI and the 1.5 TSI 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, or coast with the engine completely switched off. This reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions even further. 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 around a further 25 per cent less CO2, significantly less nitrogen oxide (NOx) and no soot particles. The 1.5 TSI engine has an output of 96 kW (130 PS) and, fitted with three CNG tanks, has a range of up to 523 km running on natural gas.

Four chassis options including Dynamic Chassis Control with Driving Mode Select

Besides the standard chassis, there are also other options available for the Octavia: a 15 mm lower sports suspension, a Rough Road chassis providing 15 mm more ground clearance, and Dynamic Chassis Control, which 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.

Digital technology: modern infotainment and supreme connectivity

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 is celebrating 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 and will be available from CW 48/20. 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 available too. 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.

Virtual Cockpit now even more user-friendly

For the fourth generation of its bestseller, ŠKODA has improved the Virtual Cockpit even further. The latest generation of the digital and individually customisable instrument panel comes with a 10.25-inch screen and is now even more user-friendly. The driver can choose from four different layouts - Basic, Classic, Navigation and Driver Assistance Systems - and specify their desired content using the controls on the multifunction steering wheel. In the Driver Assistance Systems layout, activated systems are shown three-dimensionally - and are even mirrored in the central display.

ŠKODA Connect mobile online services

The Škoda Octavia's eSIM provides access to ŠKODA Connect mobile online services. These include eCall, which is mandatory in the EU and automatically calls for emergency assistance in the event of an accident, and Proactive Service (breakdown call), which transmits the position and status of the vehicle to the breakdown service in the event of a technical problem. The Vehicle Health Report automatically stores important data each time the ignition is switched off. In addition, Service Scheduling can keep in contact with the garage, allowing service notifications to be relayed, service appointments to be scheduled or relevant data to be transmitted in the event of a breakdown. The remote vehicle access via the ŠKODA Connect app or the ŠKODA Connect web portal allows owners, for example, to retrieve vehicle information and driving data, display the car's parking location, and activate the remote-controlled Honk & Flash function making it easier to find the Octavia in the car park, as well as to lock and unlock the doors and close any open windows. The Infotainment Online services backed by online data offer route calculations, real-time traffic information as well as help with the search for petrol stations and parking spaces. For streaming services or the provision of a Wi-Fi hotspot for passengers, data packages can easily be added from the vehicle.

Up to five USB-C ports and CANTON Sound System available

The new Octavia offers up to five USB-C ports. Two USB-C ports in the front centre console for charging, or connecting media devices and USB sticks with the infotainment system are standard; as an option, another two for charging only can be fitted in the rear together with a 230-V socket and a third additional charging USB-C port can be positioned in the overhead console above the rear-view mirror. With the USB-A-3.0 to USB-C adapter from ŠKODA's Genuine Accessories range, older devices with an USB-A-3.0 port can be connected very easily. Using the optional Phone Box, smartphones can also be charged inductively and paired to the vehicle's external aerial. The acoustically optimised interior and the new optional CANTON Sound System ensure a perfect audio experience.

Simply Clever: new features for ŠKODA's bestseller

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 as an option 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 Škoda 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 in the front doors can now also feature a snow brush instead of the familiar umbrella.

Other new features for the Octavia include a funnel integrated into the lid of the windscreen washer tank and water channels on the windscreen, which allow rainwater to drain optimally, thus contributing to the lowest amount of drag possible. Thanks to its integrated Tip-To-Close function, the electrically operated tailgate (optional) can also be closed with ease by gently pulling on it. It also comes with a virtual pedal. The button to electrically unlock the optional retractable tow bar can be found in the boot too.