ŠKODA

Octavia

THE NEW ŠKODA Octavia is due on sale this summer, promising a more upmarket interior, sharp new looks and updated technology. Three engine options will be available from launch; a 150hp 1.5-litre petrol, and 2.0-litre diesels with 115hp or 150hp. Later in the year, Škoda will add a 1.0-litre petrol, and introduce mild and plug-in hybrids.

As before, the Octavia will be sold in hatchback and estate body styles. Luggage space has always been one of its strengths, especially in estate form, and the latest estate offers 640 litres of boot capacity with the rear seats upright. That’s a class-leading figure, and a 30-litre improvement on the previous generation.

Kerbweights start from 1357kg for the 1.5 TSI hatchback, giving an 85% match figure of 1153kg. The heaviest of the launch models, the 2.0 TDI 150hp DSG Estate, has a kerbweight of at least 1487kg.

Entry-level ‘S’ trim won’t be available until later in the year. Initially, the SE First Edition is the most affordable spec, starting from £22,390. Equipment includes an 8.25-inch touchscreen, eight loudspeakers and smartphone connectivity. For more kit, buyers can upgrade to SE Technology or SE L First Edition.