New 2013 Skoda Octavia unveiled in India

Skoda has taken the wraps off the latest version of the Octavia, the car that established the manufacturer as one of the important players in the Indian market. The car will arrive in our showrooms this festive season.

 

The third-generation Octavia is built on VW’s new MQB variable platform and is 90mm longer and 45mm wider than the Laura. The wheelbase now stands at 2686mm. The car unveiled came shod with 205/55 R16 tyres on both the petrol and diesel variants.

The new Octavia will initially be offered with two engine options, a petrol and a diesel. The petrol is the 1.8 TSI engine from the Laura which has been uprated to make 177bhp now. The diesel motor is the familiar 2.0-litre TDI unit that makes 141bhp. The petrol engine will come mated to a 7-speed DSG, while the diesel will get a six-speed DSG automatic gearbox. Neither will have the option of paddle shifters, though. Also, the petrol variant will not get a manual transmission option. There may also be a base 1.4-litre petrol engine on offer later.

 

Sudhir Rao, managing director, Skoda India, said, “The ‘Octavia’ model line launched Skoda in the country 12 years ago and has enjoyed a cult status in India ever since. The Octavia instantly became a game changer in the segment and revolutionised the Indian automotive industry. Since then Skoda has come a long way in the Indian market and the Octavia has always been the heart of our brand. Now, with the new-generation Octavia, which will be introduced in India during the festival season, we promise all of this and much more.”

 

The new car is being produced at Skoda's Aurangabad facility.