Skoda has launched the 2017 Octavia in Delhi today, prices at with prices starting from Rs 15.47 lakh (ex-showroom). The luxury sedan gets minor tweaks both, on the outside as well as on the inside.
The biggest change is to the headlamps, which are now split just like the old E-Class. The DRL strip now runs along the bottom of both headlamps, as do the indicators, split by a strip of the bumper. Other changes include and update to the butterfly grille, and now comes in glossy black finish. The lower part of the bumper has been reworked, the fog lights are sleeker and there is a chrome strip running between them. It also gets a chiselled bonnet, refreshed shoulder line and the traditional notchback design. The design has been inspired by the Kodiaq, which is due for launch later this year.
On the inside, it now gets a new touchscreen based infotainment system. It also gets MirrorLink, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Another major upgrade is the inclusion of ambient lighting which can be customised in 10 colours. It also gets two USB sockets at the rear and an app called BossConnect which allows you to control the multimedia in the car. The interiors are finished with premium materials and there is also the addition of park assist in the new Octavia.
Mechanically, the Octavia remains the same with the powertrain choices of 1.4-litre TSI, 1.8-litre TSI and 2-litre TDI. The power and torque figures remain the same as well. The handling and ride setup remains the benchmark in its class although the rear track is wider by 20mm on the 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TDI powered car while the 1.8-TSI is wider by an additional 10mm, thanks to an independent rear suspension.
The Octavia goes up against the likes of Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Elantra. Although, the Indian market currently favours SUVs more than sedans, the Octavia makes for a great package if you’re in the market, looking for a driver’s car.