New Delhi, Aug 9: Skoda India will unveil their much awaited sedan, the new Octavia in Mumbai on Friday with its launch slated in September.
With the new Octavia, Skoda will want to bridge the gap between the Rapid and the Octavia. Now in its third generation, the new Octavia is not only bigger, but also lighter than the outgoing Laura thanks to it being based on Volkswagen's MQB platform.
Because of certain changes, the new Octavia is 90 mm longer and 45 mm wider than the earlier generation model. At the same time, the wheelbase has grown by 108 mm, mainly benefiting the interior and space at the back.
Reports suggest that the new Octavia includes a pair of 1.8-litre petrol and 2-litre TDI diesel engines. A smaller 1.4-litre TSI unit (found in the VW Jetta) could also be offered. Both petrol and diesel engines are expected to be offered with a choice of 6-speed manual and a dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
When launched, the new Octavia will take on the crowded D-segment which currently includes the Toyota Corolla Altis, Chevrolet Cruze, Hyundai Elantra, VW Jetta and Renault Fluence.
