India-bound 2020 Skoda Octavia sedan breaks cover
After several teasers and spy shots, Czech automaker Skoda has finally unveiled its much-anticipated sedan, the 2020 Octavia. The fourth-generation model comes with a sportier look while packing several hi-tech features like built-in voice assistant and eSIM support as well as the model's first plug-in hybrid powertrain. Notably, the car is likely to hit the Indian roads sometime next year. Here's our roundup.
2020 Skoda Octavia: At a glance
The 2020 Skoda Octavia is longer and wider than the outgoing model and looks sportier than before, thanks to the sharper-looking sculpted lines. The car comes with a cascading grille housed in a chrome frame, a coupe-inspired roof design, and chrome elements surrounding the windows. Apart from that, it houses sleeker-looking LED headlamps (full-matrix LEDs as optional), turn indicators, and LED taillights.
What about interiors?
The 2020 Octavia sports a five-seater cabin with a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, three-zone climate control, and ventilated seats with massage function. The car gets a fully-digital Virtual Cockpit setup, a head-up display, and a touchscreen infotainment system (8.25-inch or 10-inch depending on the model). It also offers hi-tech features like connected car technology with eSIM support and a voice-enabled digital assistant called Laura.
Power and performance
Internationally, the fourth-generation Octavia will be available in numerous powertrains including petrol, diesel, CNG, plug-in as well as mild-hybrid engines. However, according to reports, the India-specific model will come with a 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter turbo petrol engines, mated to manual or automatic transmission systems. The former is capable of producing 150bhp of power, while the latter can churn out 190bhp.
When will it come to India?
The 2020 Skoda Octavia will reportedly launch in India sometime in 2020. As for the pricing, it is likely to fall under Rs. 20-30 lakh price bracket. Once launched, it will take on the likes of Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla Altis, and Hyundai Elantra.
