Fourth generation Skoda Octavia slated for India launch in April

Skoda India just after its biggest unveil — the Kushaq, its first mid-size SUV that has been tailor-made for India, announced the arrival of the fourth-gen Octavia. Post its global debut in 2019, the Octavia was expected to launch in 2020 but the pandemic pushed its launch to this year. But finally, the enthusiasts’ prayers have been answered and the all-new Skoda Octavia is coming to India by the end of April, with deliveries commencing from May. The Octavia will only be offered with a single turbo-petrol engine, the staple 2-litre TSI along with significant cosmetic updates on the outside and inside.

Based on VW group's MQB platform, the new generation Octavia gets design updates that make it far sleeker than before. The Octavia is also longer and wider, so expect more space on the inside. And speaking of the interiors, the Octavia gets a completely new cabin with a new 10.25-inch instrument cluster and a two-spoke steering wheel. Besides this, the Octavia will also get a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a wireless charging pad and a three-zone climate control system. The cabin overall is expected to be offered in combination of a black and beige colour scheme.

Under the hood, the Octavia will get VW Group’s 2-litre TSI that it shares with the Superb and other VW Group models. The engine produces 188bhp and will come mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. With diesel engines no longer providing a business case for Skoda in India, they have completely been phased out. Even the upcoming Kodiaq will be petrol powered.

With the announcement of the Kushaq, new Octavia and the updated Kodiaq, Skoda’s 2021 innings brings a great amount of hope for the brand and the carmaker has shown its commitment towards updating its Indian portfolio. The Skoda Octavia price is likely to range between Rs 17-24 lakh, ex-showroom and at launch, the Hyundai Elantra will be its sole direct rival. Both the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla Altis have been discontinued. That said, the Octavia will likely be a great bargain for those who are not willing to shell out the extra bucks for entry-level German luxury sedans like the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class Limousine and the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe.