The new generation Skoda Octavia receives significant updates over its predecessor and is presented in two variants: Style and Laurin & Klement.rnrnSkoda has launched the new fourth-generation Octavia in India with a starting price of Rs25.99 (ex-showroom) and is offering it in two variants: the base model and the top-of-the-range (L&K) Laurin & Klement variant with a price tag of Rs28.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The Skoda Octavia has always been a leader in the executive sedan segment, striking a good balance between comfort and driving experience. We recently drove the 2021 Skoda Octavia and it is still a very well assembled car, ready to offer stiff competition to the Hyundai Elantra, its only competitor in the market at the moment.rn
Exterior
rn Skoda Octavia ExteriorrnrnThe Skoda Octavia has evolved gracefully over the generations without losing its original design. The next generation model is a step up from the previous one, but is still easily recognizable as the Octavia, again thanks to its profile silhouette.rnrnThe front and rear have been changed with the new outgoing Skoda grille surrounded by more elegant LED headlights, and below them is a reworked bumper. The hood also looks more etched now and there's a new set of 17-inch alloy wheels called Pulsar Black in Skoda parlance.rnrnThe rear also looks sharper with sleeker wraparound taillights, angular character lines and of course the new Skoda bold lettering seen on all new models from the Czech automaker. The new Octavia is 20 mm long and 19 mm wide, while the height remains unchanged. The wheelbase is 2,680 mm, which is 2 mm shorter than the previous model.rn
Interior
rn Skoda Octavia InteriorrnrnIt is the interior of the 2021 Skoda Octavia that looks newer and more distinct to the eye than its predecessor and more than the design, it is finishing and the quality of materials that increases its appeal. Black and beige continue to dominate the cabin and the seats are upholstered in suede. Skoda has also used elegant polished chrome, suede and wood throughout the cabin. Like other automakers, the autonomous touchscreen infotainment system has also caught Skoda's attention and takes center stage in the Octavia. The dashboard is also new, the center console vents have been moved down with the shift knobs positioned at the top and there's a new touch-sensitive bar for turning on stereo levels. Then you also have a new leather-wrapped steering wheel. One of the car's biggest strengths is the boot space of 600 litres with all seats raised and can be expanded to 1,555 litres by folding the second row seats.rnrnAlso Read: Skoda Kushaq vs Hyundai Creta vs Kia Seltos: Key Comparisonrn
Features
rn Skoda Octavia InfotainmentrnrnAs before, the new Skoda Octavia is loaded with the latest amenities you would expect in this segment. For starters, the new 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system we talked about earlier is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, there's a customizable Virtual Cockpit, L&K's top system receives wireless charging and a 600-watt, 12-speaker Canton audio system. . Other features include dual-zone climate control that comes with rear air conditioning vents, a power-adjustable driver's seat, Type-C charging in the front and rear, and a dash cam-mounted rearview mirror. However, some features such as a sunroof or ventilated seats that buyers prefer in this segment are missing.rn
Engine
rn Skoda Octavia EnginernrnThe 2021 Skoda Octavia is powered by a 2.0-litre TSI four-cylinder petrol engine that generates 188 bhp between 4,180 rpm and 6000 rpm and a maximum torque of 320 Nm between 1,500 rpm and 3,990 rpm. The engine is mated to a standard 7-speed DSG automatic transmission and comes with shift paddles. It helps record triple-digit speeds in 6.9 seconds, while ARAI claims a fuel economy of 15.81 km/h.rn
Safety
rn Skoda Octavia AirbagsrnrnComing to the safety department, there are a total of eight airbags in the new Skoda Octavia and other features include multi-collision brake, fatigue alert, and electronic assists including ABS, ESC, EBD, ASR, and electronic differential lock (EDS). Basic. Features such as adaptive lights, ultra-comfortable park assist and TPMS are also specific to the L&K model. Skoda has also added a MySkoda Connect app that provides geofencing, driving behavior, trip analysis, and more. It will connect you to emergency services or roadside assistance if the vehicle detects an accident.rnrnRead More: Skoda Rapid Rider returns at a price of Rs. 7.79 lakh