The ŠKODA OCTAVIA impresses both as a hatchback and an estate with its powerful and economical engines. The range of petrol and diesel engines extends to the RS powertrains with 169 kW (230 PS) in the TSI and 135 kW (184 PS) in the TDI.
In the TSI range, a turbo-charged, three-cylinder petrol engine has replaced the 1.2-litre, four-cylinder version. From its engine size of 999 cm3, the new 1.0 TSI produces 85 kW (115 PS) and provides 200 Nm of torque between 2,000 and 3,500 rpm. The first three-cylinder engine in the history of the model series has sophisticated acoustics and enables a driving performance that surpasses its predecessor.
In combination with 7-speed DSG, the new 1.0 TSI accelerates the ŠKODA OCTAVIA hatchback from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.0 s and achieves a top speed of 202 km/h. Combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox, 100 km/h can even be achieved in just 9.9 s; the top speed is also 202 km/h. The ŠKODA OCTAVIA Combi is available with 7-speed DSG or a manual gearbox; both versions reach a top speed of 200 km/h and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.2 and 10.1 s respectively.
The biggest improvement, however, is to the new three-cylinder TSI’s fuel consumption, which is 8 per cent lower than that of the previous engine. The hatchback with 7-speed DSG can cover 100 km using just 4.5 l of petrol (emitting 105 g CO2/km, or – using the same fuel consumption – 103 g CO2/km when combined with a manual gearbox). The Combi uses 4.6 l/100 km (emitting 106 g CO2/km) and 4.5 l/100 km (105 g CO2/km) respectively.
On request, ŠKODA delivers an aero package with targeted modifications, which further increase efficiency, for the Active, Ambition and Style trim levels. Its components include a sport chassis which brings the body closer to the road and therefore reduces drag, active air flaps for better aerodynamics and a tailgate or roof spoiler for further improved air flow. The tyres are optimised for low rolling resistance. These improvements mean the fuel consumption drops to 4.4 l/100 km and the CO2 emissions to 102 g/km in both the hatchback and the Combi with manual gearbox.
The new 1.0 TSI in the ŠKODA OCTAVIA is state of the art in all aspects of technology. Its compact construction and aluminium crankcase mean the three-cylinder engine weighs just 78 kg. Its aluminium pistons and the forged connecting rods are balanced accurately, enabling quiet and smooth running even without the presence of a balancing shaft. In the entire crankshaft assembly, the rotating mass is low in weight and friction loss is minimal. The crank case and cylinder head have their own cooling circuits; the exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head forms an important component of the engine’s powerful thermo-management.
To improve the charge cycle, the inlet and exhaust camshafts can be adjusted by up to 50 and 40 degrees of crankshaft rotation respectively. The common rail system injects the fuel with up to 250 bar of pressure. The turbocharger’s intercooler is integrated into the induction tract, instantly increasing the boost pressure which can reach up to 1.6 bar (relatively).
The engine range with DCC: high performance
All ŠKODA OCTAVIA engines are known for their outstanding performance and low fuel consumption. The following engines are available with adaptive DCC:
TSI engines
› 1.4 TSI/110 kW (150 PS) – 6-speed manual and 7-speed DSG
› 1.8 TSI/132 kW (180 PS) – 6-speed manual and 7-speed DSG; 4×4 with 6-speed DSG
› 2.0 TSI/162 kW (220 PS) – RS, 6-speed manual and 6-speed DSG
› 2.0 TSI/169 kW (230 PS) – RS 230, 6-speed manual and 6-speed DSG
TDI engines
› 2.0 TDI/110 kW (150 PS) – 6-speed manual and 6-speed DSG; 4×4 with 6-speed manual
› 2.0 TDI/135 kW (184 PS) – 6-speed manual and 6-speed DSG, 4×4 with 6-speed DSG
Adaptive DCC: a varied driving experience
In the new 2017 model year, ŠKODA is offering adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) for the ŠKODA OCTAVIAs with engines of a power output starting from 110 kW (150 PS). This provides a more varied driving experience – DCC makes it possible to adapt the steering and suspension depending on whether the Comfort, Normal and Sport mode has been selected. DCC is also available in the ŠKODA OCTAVIA RS and ŠKODA OCTAVIA RS 230, where its functions include a more comfortable set-up for everyday driving at the push of a button.
An electronic valve controls the flow of oil within the DCC shock absorbers. A fast control unit operates the valve depending on the road condition, the driver’s driving style and the selected mode. A large cross section allows the car to ride comfortably; a small cross section enables the car to hold the road more precisely: the steering reacts even more accurately, the car’s steering behaviour is more precise, braking characteristics are improved and body roll is minimalised. DCC also contributes to active safety: the system automatically switches from Comfort mode to Sport mode in hazardous situations and, in doing so, provides higher stability, better tyre grip and shorter braking distances.
DCC and Driving Mode Select are optional from the Ambition trim level upwards. With Driving Mode Select, the driver can change steering characteristics, operation of the DSG and chassis settings in several modes. In Individual mode, these systems can be set to personal preferences.
Black 17-inch ‘Teron’ wheels are another new optional extra for the 2017 models, available for the ŠKODA OCTAVIA Ambition and Style trim levels.
Overall package, interior and ‘Simply Clever’ features
The ŠKODA OCTAVIA’s overall package has always provided a little bit ‘more car’ than its competitors by offering generous amounts of space and combining the elegant hatchback shape with a large tailgate. It offers outstanding interior space, rear legroom and headroom in the compact car segment. Both the hatchback and the Combi boast the largest boot within their class.
Just like every ŠKODA, the OCTAVIA has many electronic and ‘Simply Clever’ features which make life easier for its occupants. In the new 2017 models, the Climatronic comes with an allergen filter, the optional rear-view camera is kept clean using washer jets and, from the late summer, there will be an optional umbrella under the front passenger seat. iPads can be mounted to the front seats’ backrests.
New features of the infotainment system
The ŠKODA OCTAVIA’s infotainment systems are part of the second-generation Modular Infotainment Matrix (MIB II) – they are easy to operate, versatile and powerful. The Swing infotainment radio is already standard in the Active trim level in the 2017 models. Wi-Fi has been added to the Amundsen infotainment navigation system. Some of the system’s functions can be controlled using ŠKODA’s Media Command app on a tablet or smartphone – an appealing solution for the ŠKODA OCTAVIA’s rear passengers.
With new features, the infotainment system becomes even more extensive in the 2017 models. The optional ŠKODA Phonebox with wireless charging connects a smartphone to the car antenna by near-field coupling without the need for a cable, thus offering high call quality and best data reception. At the same time, it charges the smartphone inductively in accordance with the Qi standard, provided that the phone is technically compatible.