Octavia 3. Skoda Octavia III generation. Conclusions in a separate line...
The article talks about the evolution of all generations of Skoda Octavia from the moment when it quickly burst into the European market until the present day, in which it confidently holds its position, successfully competing with cars of its class.
First generation A3 (1996–2004)
The first generation Skoda Octavia (A3), built on the then well-known Golf IV platform, was presented at the beginning of 1996 at the Paris Motor Show and a year later mass production of this model in a liftback body began. In 1998, the line was replenished with the “Combi” modification. The car turned out to be of high quality, well balanced, had affordable prices and immediately gained popularity among car enthusiasts. Among their competitors, both modifications stood out for their noticeably increased trunk capacity, although not without sacrificing space for rear passengers.
The cars were equipped with gasoline and diesel engines with a volume of 1.4 to 2.0 liters, paired with a 5- or 6-speed manual transmission, or a 4-speed automatic. The most popular was the turbocharged engine with a volume of 1.8 liters and a power of 150 horsepower.
Restyling (2000–2010)
In 2000, Octavia was modernized, and the name was supplemented with the prefix “Tour”. The updates affected the appearance, in particular the bumpers and optics. The line of Combi station wagons has been replenished with an all-wheel drive modification, equipped with an independent rear suspension and a larger gas tank. For lovers of active driving, in 2001, with the participation of German colleagues, the Czech manufacturer released a charged version - the Skoda Octavia RS.
In addition, in 2002, the Skoda company released a limited batch of Octavia with the WRS index, which had some external differences and was equipped with 1.8-liter turbo engines producing 180 horsepower.
Second generation A5 (2004–2010)
In 2004, Skoda introduced the second generation of Octavia (A5), built on a new platform. The car has increased in size in width, length and height, which gives more space for rear passengers. The engines have been modernized and become more powerful and environmentally friendly. A 2-liter turbodiesel with a capacity of 140 horsepower and new power units from Volkswagen with FSI direct fuel injection were added to the line: 1.6 liters and a capacity of 116 horsepower, 2.0 liters and a capacity of 150 horsepower.
Restyling FL (2008-2012)
In 2008, another restyling was carried out. The appearance and interior of the car has changed significantly. The engine range has been supplemented with a new 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol unit (CAXA), and a 7-speed robotic gearbox has appeared to work in tandem with 1.4- and 2.0-liter petrol engines.
Third generation A7 (2013)
The long-awaited third generation of the Skoda Octavia (A7) entered the market in 2013. Traditionally, the model is available in two body styles: liftback and station wagon (Combi). Technically, except for the body type, these modifications differ little from each other. Compared to the previous generation, the Octavia A7 has grown by 100 mm in length, 40 mm in width, and another 60 mm have been added to the wheelbase. Thanks to this, the car has become larger and the proportions more harmonious. In appearance, you can detect individual features of Audi and VW, but at the same time, the model retains its unique style.
The increase in the overall size of the Octavia also affected the interior of the car. It has become more spacious and this is mainly felt in the back row of seats, where passenger legroom has increased by 30 mm. Almost all control and driver support systems known in the seventh generation VW Golf are also present in the third version of the Skoda Octavia. Interior materials aren't expensive but look good, and build quality has improved significantly.
Among the engines, the 2-liter turbodiesel (150 hp) is especially impressive. Among gasoline units, you should pay attention to the 1.4-liter engine with excellent performance and optimal fuel consumption. The unique DSG robotic gearbox, which comes with more powerful engines, can significantly improve dynamics without significantly affecting fuel consumption.
As for the ride, it can be described as harsh, despite the fact that the car is designed for moderate driving. However, that doesn't mean it doesn't do well on twisty roads. Rather, on the contrary, roll is almost not felt, the steering wheel responds well and there is enough power.
The Skoda Octavia has several driving modes that change the operation of the transmission, engine and auxiliary units. They are divided into regular, sporty, eco-friendly and individual. By choosing the latter, you can make your own settings, and the “green” mode makes the car as economical as possible.
Restyling 2017
Changes in the exterior of the car are almost immediately noticeable - it has become even larger and more respectable in appearance. Based on a number of characteristics, including its length of 4.66 m, it can be classified as a larger segment of family cars - although officially the new Skoda belongs to the middle class.
The design of the model has become even more aggressive and stylish. At the front there is an enlarged radiator grille, similar in style to the grille of the older model - and a new bumper, while at the rear there is a compact spoiler and LED lights.
The most noticeable change in the exterior was the front LED optics. The idea of such a design with block-by-block division of the headlights intersects with the design of the new one. Also, many have noticed that the optics are very reminiscent of one of the previous generations of the Mercedes E-Class, but upon closer examination its uniqueness becomes visible.
Sales market: Russia.
In 2016, Skoda introduced an updated version of the third generation Octavia family (5E). The updated liftback received a different design for the front part: new dual headlights, a new radiator grille, bumpers and some other details. Bi-xenon optics in the top version are replaced by optional LED headlights. The pattern of the lights at the rear has changed. In addition, the Octavia can now be ordered with 16- and 18-inch wheels with a new design. Following the premiere of the updated basic version of Octavia at the end of 2016, the manufacturer showed sports modifications with the RS index. Sales of the updated Skoda Octavia family with a line of gasoline engines 1.6 (110 hp), 1.4 (turbo, 150 hp) and 1.8 (turbo, 180 hp) began in Russia in April 2017, and a little later, sales of the “charged” Octavia RS with a 2.0-liter turbo engine producing 230 hp started.
On the Russian market, Octavia is offered in three trim levels: Active, Ambition and Style. The equipment list of the basic version includes: LED running lights and taillights, driver's seat height adjustment, on-board computer, heated windshield washer nozzles, heated exterior electric mirrors, front electric windows, Swing Radio audio system with 6.5" screen (MP 3, USB, Aux, SD). In the Ambition package, both front seats are adjustable in height and equipped with heating, there is lumbar support adjustment, air conditioning, Bluetooth. The Style package will offer a multifunction steering wheel, atmospheric lighting, climate control, folding mirrors, an 8" central display, voice control and much more . The interior of the Skoda Octavia deserves close attention, especially in expensive versions with additional functional packages, which include electric seats, a Columbus multimedia system with a 9.2-inch screen, etc. At the rear there are USB connectors and an optional 230-volt socket. Other innovations include contour lighting in the door card inserts and an umbrella in the compartment next to the front passenger seat.
The range of Skoda Octavia petrol engines opens with the naturally aspirated 1.6 MPI (110 hp). This engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Turbo engines - 1.4 TSI (150 hp), 1.8 TSI (180 hp) and 2.0 TSI for Octavia RS (230 hp) - are offered with a 6-speed manual or DSG robotic preselective gearbox ( 7-speed or 6-speed for 2.0 TSI and for all-wheel drive liftback 1.8 TSI 4×4). The most dynamic version of the RS accelerates to “hundreds” in just 6.7 seconds (6.8 seconds with DSG). The 1.4 TSI and 1.8 TSI engines also pull well and quickly accelerate the Czech liftback - it will take from 7.3 to 8.2 seconds to accelerate to 100 km/h. For the base engine with a manual transmission, the same figure is 10.6 seconds. (12 sec. with “automatic”). Average gasoline consumption for 1.6 MPI is 6.1 (6.3) l/100 km. For turbo engines, consumption varies from 5.3 to 6.6 l/100 km. The tank volume is 50 liters, and for the all-wheel drive Octavia 1.8 4x4 it is 5 liters more.
The front suspension of the Skoda Octavia is MacPherson strut. The rear is of a simplified design: semi-independent, torsion beam. However, the most powerful Octavia 1.8 TSI and RS have a feature - a multi-link rear suspension, which contributes to better comfort and handling. Compared to the standard liftback, the RS version has a reduced ground clearance of 127 mm (standard 153-156 mm) and a rear track widened by 30 mm. It also features a drive mode selector, variable power steering and a Performance Sound Generator, a system that simulates the sound of a sports engine. The 4x4 drive for Octavia with 1.8 TSI engine and DSG6 is based on a multi-plate clutch. Under normal conditions, the main power is transmitted to the front wheels, and if necessary, traction on the rear axle is increased in a split second.
High security of the third generation is one of the important trump cards of Octavia. The car earned five stars out of five in EuroNCAP tests. The updated version is standardly equipped with front airbags (for the passenger - with deactivation), child seat mounts, anti-lock brakes, hill assist (for automatic transmission and DSG), and also, with the exception of the base engine on “mechanics”, electronic stability control system ESC, including differential lock XDS. More expensive trim levels include a brake pad wear indicator, light and rain sensors, front side airbags, and the Style trim level includes curtain airbags.
The wide variety of modifications remains one of the advantages of the Octavia. The salon is distinguished by well-thought-out ergonomics, sufficient space in the rear, the front seat backrest folds (optional), and in terms of luggage compartment volume (568-1558 liters), the Octavia in the liftback body is one of the leaders in the class. The Octavia RS stands apart; it is the fastest in the line, but, as Drom experts note, it lacks a number of advantages for which practical buyers fell in love with the Czech liftback: the RS has low ground clearance and a body kit that is “traumatic” in Russian realities. Therefore, it makes sense to give preference to a car with a 180-horsepower engine, and in this modification you can purchase an option with 4x4 all-wheel drive (in the Ambition configuration and higher) - before restyling, this option was provided only for the Octavia COMBI station wagon.
Read completelyThe Skoda Octavia can rightfully be called the most popular car of the Czech automobile industry. It was thanks to this model that the Czech automaker conquered the European market and became recognizable throughout the world.
The model became popular due to its reliability and efficiency, which, coupled with a spacious interior, brought it great sales and customer choice.
In the late 50s, or more precisely in 1959, in Czechoslovakia, a model was first presented to the public that would gain popularity years later - the Skoda Octavia. The model was a modernization of the car Skoda 440"Spartak", which was produced from 1955 to 1958. This model was produced in sedan and station wagon bodies. The Skoda Octavia has established itself as a reliable family car and is in great demand among the population. This model was produced until 1971, when its production temporarily ceased. A total of 286,000 cars of this series were produced.
Production of the Skoda Octavia resumed in 1996. The model was officially presented at the Paris Motor Show, it was a completely new car. The Skoda Octavia I became the first car from the Skoda plant after the company was purchased by the German concern Volkswagen. Initially, the Skoda Octavia I was produced in a hatchback body, and in 1998 a station wagon version was released, which was called Combi. The Skoda Octavia I was produced in several trim levels: from the basic Octavia Classic to the luxury Octavia Laurin&Klement.
The new model was unified with other models of the Volkswagen concern and created on a single A4 platform (PQ34), on which golf-class cars of other brands of the concern were produced.
This model, like its predecessor, was positioned as a family car, where practicality and reliability were at the forefront. Octavia also boasted spaciousness, a huge trunk and safety. And all this at a fairly affordable price.
Body and interior
The Skoda Octavia A3 was produced in two body modifications - a hatchback (or rather a liftback) and a station wagon, which was called the Skoda Octavia Combo. The liftback body deserved the greatest popular love. This modification looks like a sedan, but the trunk opens like a hatchback. The advantage of this body type is the spacious trunk; for the Octavia it was an impressive 530 liters in normal interior condition and 1330 liters with the rear seats folded down. Also an important advantage was the ease of loading/unloading things from the trunk and a huge opening that allowed you to put even a refrigerator. In the station wagon, the maximum trunk volume increased to a record 1530 liters.
The salon of the first generation Skoda Octavia was subordinated to utilitarianism and did not please with delights. However, it was usually equipped with the minimum set necessary for comfortable movement. Electric windows, locks and mirrors, air conditioning and power steering - all this created a feeling of comfort in the “middle class”, for which this car was designed.
Engines
Traditionally, the Skoda Octavia was equipped with engines from the giant Volkswagen, which are distinguished by their unpretentiousness, reliability and ease of maintenance. Below we list the line of engines that were installed on the first generation Skoda Octavia (A3):
| Name | Fuel type | Volume | Number of valves | Power | Torque | Engine code | Release period |
| 1.4 8v | Petrol | 1,4 | 8 | 59 hp | 120 Nm at 4500 rpm | AMD | 1999-2001 |
| 1.4 16v | Petrol | 1,4 | 16 | 74 hp | 126 Nm at 3800 rpm | AXP/BCA | 2000-2010 |
| 1.6 8v | Petrol | 1,6 | 8 | 74 hp | 135 Nm at 2800-3600 rpm | AEE | 1996-2004 |
| 1.6 8v | Petrol | 1,6 | 8 | 101 hp | 145 Nm at 3800 rpm | AEH/AKL | 1998-2000 (for South America until 2010) |
| 1.6 8v | Petrol | 1,6 | 8 | 102 hp | 148 Nm at 3800 rpm | AVU/BFQ | 2000-2013 |
| 1.8 | Petrol | 1,8 | 20 | 125 hp at 6000 rpm | 170 Nm at 4200 rpm | AGN | 1996-1999 |
| 1.8T | Petrol | 1,8 | 20 | 150 hp at 5700 rpm | 210 Nm at 1750-4600 rpm | AGU/ARZ/ARX/AUM | 1998-2006 (for Eastern Europe 2010) |
| 1.8vRS | Petrol | 1,8 | 20 | 180 hp at 5500 rpm | 235 Nm at 1950 - 5000 rpm | AUQ | 2001-2006 |
| 2.0 | Petrol | 2,0 | 8 | 115 | 170 Nm at 2400 rpm | APK/AQY | 1999-2001 |
| 2.0 | Petrol | 2,0 | 8 | 115 | 172 Nm at 3200 rpm | AZJ/AZH | 2001-2007 |
| 1.9 8v SDI | Diesel | 1,9 | 8 | 68 hp | 133 Nm at 2200-2600 rpm | AGP/AQM | 1999-2004 |
| 1.9 8v TDI | Diesel | 1,9 | 8 | 90 hp | 210 Nm at 1900 rpm | AGR/ALH | 1996-2007 |
| 1.9 8v TDI | Diesel | 1,9 | 8 | 100 hp | 240 Nm at 1800-2400 rpm | ATD/AXR | 2000-2010 |
| 1.9 8v TDI | Diesel | 1,9 | 8 | 110 hp | 235 Nm at 1900 rpm | AHF/ASV | 1997-2006 |
| 1.9 8v TDI | Diesel | 1,9 | 8 | 130 hp | 310 Nm at 1900 rpm | ASZ | 2003-2004 |
Transmission
5- or 6-speed manual transmission, or 4-speed automatic
Safety
In general, the model turned out to be quite safe, as confirmed by a crash test using the Euro NCAP method:
Options
Like all manufacturers, Skoda offered the Octavia with a wide range of trim levels. The initial configuration of the Octavia was very modest and did not include such “frills” as electric windows and air conditioning. Top trim levels were equipped to the highest standard.
For example, the Laurin&Klement version, named after the names of the company's founders, could boast light leather upholstery, wood trim, automatic climate control, a sunroof and other bells and whistles. There was also a very interesting “4x4” modification with permanent all-wheel drive. At the same time, the car, equipped with a turbo engine (petrol or diesel) and a manual transmission, was by no means a crossover or SUV, but thanks to all the drive wheels on a slippery road, the driver of such an Octavia felt noticeably more confident.
Maintenance schedule
List of main works | 15t.km | 30 t.km | 45 t.km | 60 t.km | 75 t.km | 90 t.km | 105t.km | 120t.km |
Brake pad inspection | ABOUT | ABOUT | ABOUT | ABOUT | ABOUT | ABOUT | ABOUT | ABOUT |
| Changing the engine oil | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z |
Oil filter | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z |
Oil pan plug | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z |
| Cabin filter | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z | Z |
Fuel filter (Diesel) | Z | Z | Z | Z | ||||
Fuel filter (Gasoline) | Z | Z | ||||||
Air filter | Z | Z | Z | Z | ||||
Spark plug | ABOUT | Z | O | Z | ||||
Power steering fluid | ABOUT | ABOUT | ABOUT | ABOUT | ABOUT | Z | ABOUT | ABOUT |
Antifreeze | ABOUT | ABOUT | ABOUT | ABOUT | ABOUT | Z | ABOUT | ABOUT |
Advantages and disadvantagesAdvantages
Flaws
Photo Video |
The long-awaited third generation of the Skoda Octavia has now appeared in Russia. Assembly of the new liftback model on a fundamentally new platform began in Nizhny Novgorod.
In the best traditions of the Skoda company, the new Octavia is the perfection of German technology and practicality at an adequate price. The brand's flagship has become faster, more economical and more spacious. But not everything is as perfect as it might seem at first glance. To test cars in Russian realities, we went on a two-day marathon along the route Kazan - Yoshkar-Ola - Cheboksary - Kazan. And for me, as the owner of a previous generation Octavia (Scout version), it was especially important to find the advantages and disadvantages of the new model in comparison with the previous generation.
Go!
The new car is the first Skoda model to use the group's new universal MQB platform. In short, VW AG is systematically moving towards taking over the entire automotive world on the planet and is constantly increasing car production volumes. To reduce costs and speed up the implementation of new technologies, maximum unification of parts between the concern’s models is needed. Previously, there were several basic chassis sizes for each class of car, usually each class had a fixed wheelbase, which imposed restrictions on the ability to get cars of different nature and purpose within the same class (for example, the Audi A3, Golf 5 and 6 and the second generation Octavia have same wheelbase). Now the concern has developed a single universal platform MQB for absolutely all cars with a transverse engine (there is also an MLB platform for engines located longitudinally), by changing the wheelbase, track width and the distance between individual chassis elements, designers can use the same platform as on a compact city hatch and business class sedan.
This move allows us to significantly reduce production costs and use a perfect chassis with standardized parts on all models of the concern, without depriving each model of its individuality.
2. In general, it’s high time to update Octavia. The previous generation was put into production in 2004, and only the global restyling of 2008 with the update of the entire model range of engines allowed Octavia, even now, in 2013, not to look like a black sheep compared to its competitors. On the new generation, the difference in technical terms between the “premium” Audi and the “budget” Skoda is even less noticeable. All differences essentially come down to the quality of finishing materials, and only particularly ardent fans of the Skoda brand will notice the difference.
Overall dimensions compared to the previous generation. When it comes to space for passengers and luggage, Octavia is the undoubted leader in the C class. Changing the chassis layout and increasing the wheelbase by 10 centimeters made it possible to “carve out” another 7 centimeters for the rear passengers’ feet!
3. The design of the model is dominated by chopped lines and sharp edges, this gives the car a solid appearance. The new Octavia looks most advantageous in profile and from the rear, and the front view, in my opinion, is spoiled by thin LED strips of daytime running lights, the thickness of which is completely out of harmony with the rest of the elements of the front of the car, and especially with the new radiator grille.
4. Liftbacks will be assembled in Russia, at a plant in Nizhny Novgorod, and this will not be a large-scale assembly, but a full-cycle production. The Combi station wagon, as before, will be assembled in the Czech Republic, at the plant in Mlada Boleslav. All cars for Russia will come with a package for bad roads. Ground clearance is 155 millimeters, which is more than enough for a passenger car. The test also showed that the cars are devoid of sway and the unpleasant operation of shock absorbers on rebound, which Octavias of the previous generation were famous for. Then the problem was that to increase ground clearance, only the springs were changed at the factory, while the shock absorbers remained the same. On the new generation, the shock absorbers have probably also been changed (the issue requires a detailed study of catalogs and equipment).
5. The new Octavia is easy and pleasant to drive. This is also due to the new electric power steering, which at low speeds allows you to rotate the steering wheel with the little finger of one hand, and at high speeds the steering wheel becomes heavier and less sensitive (you can feel it freewheeling). This has an extremely positive effect when driving at high speeds - sudden maneuvers when steering are excluded.
6. It should also be noted that the steering rack is shorter; now the steering wheel makes 2.6 turns from lock to lock and this is a definite plus when maneuvering on narrow streets and in courtyards. On the previous generation of Octavia, the steering wheel made 3 full turns from lock to lock, and this required oversteering even when turning 90 degrees on a narrow street.
7. The situation with engines is no less interesting. Three turbocharged gasoline engines and one diesel will be available in Russia. All gasoline engines are the latest generation of engines of the EA211 series (more on them below) with a volume of 1.2 to 1.8 liters and a power of 105 to 180 horsepower. The two-liter turbodiesel has a power of 143 horsepower and will only be offered in tandem with a wet DSG6 robotic gearbox.
8. In terms of dynamic characteristics, the motors set real records. If we compare it with the previous generation of Octavia, the new 1.4TSI is about the same in dynamics as the 1.8 of the previous generation, and the Octavia with the new 1.8TSI is breathing down the neck of the two-liter Octavia RS of the previous generation. It's no joke, the new 1.8TSI takes just 7.4 seconds to accelerate to hundreds.
9. The driver's workplace and controls are standardized for almost all models of the VW AG concern. This means that the owner of the previous generation Octavia will be able to adjust the fit and find the right buttons with his eyes closed. Compared to the previous Octavia, there are fewer drawers and compartments. The door pocket no longer fits a 1.5-liter bottle, and the center console has lost the excellent storage for electronic gadgets or sunglasses (the overhead console's eyeglasses compartment, of course, won't fit). But the driver now has a full-fledged door handle, just as passengers now have power window buttons at hand, and not somewhere in the corner of the door handle. Also, in order to open doors locked with a central lock, there is no need to frantically pull the handle twice (the owner is used to it, but random passengers every now and then try to tear off the handle on the previous generation Octavia). The interior has become a little more spacious.
10. But here is a very controversial innovation - the new Octavia has lost the floor-mounted gas pedal. It is clear that this is due to the unification of the chassis and saving a few centimeters between the interior and the engine compartment, but now in disputes with owners of cars with a propeller on the hood (the floor-mounted gas pedal is a signature feature of BMW cars) there is one less argument. As for the real sensations - on the mechanics you have to twist your right foot to change the throttle, and on the highway it’s more difficult to control the fixed position of the pedal with your right foot, cruise control saves you.
11. The new Columbus navigation system gets a solid A+. Unfortunately, it does not have a wireless router, Internet access and downloading satellite images, like the Audi MMI Navigation Plus, but the map detail is excellent, the screen resolution is excellent, and touch controls, including multi-touch, have virtually no lag. And one more “trick” - there are sensors installed in front of the screen that do not react to the approach of a hand. As soon as you raise your hand, control buttons appear on the screen at the bottom of the touch screen. The only thing I didn’t like was the thickness of the screen covering; if you press your finger hard on the screen, you will notice how it bends and the image around it blurs.
12. The new steering column switches are more convenient, functionally everything remains in its place. It is unlikely that cars with adaptive cruise control will be transported to Russia, and therefore there will be no additional lever on the left to control its functions.
13. The first batch of cars, still assembled in the Czech Republic, is being tested. Those produced in Russia will not have a Start-Stop system, braking energy recovery, or the ability to turn off two cylinders on a 1.4-liter engine. From electronic systems, we are also unlikely to see lane control, traffic sign recognition, automatic high beam control, Driving Mode Selection and much more that are available in Europe. But in Russia there will be a next generation automatic parking attendant that can park both parallel and perpendicular. And most importantly - a circular parking lot. This is perhaps the best invention in recent years in the automotive industry. Moreover, everything ingenious is simple - the side sensors are basic for an automatic parking sensor, the engineers just had to include them in the work with a regular parking sensor. Well, a test of attentiveness - where is the button to turn off the traction control system? But it’s not there (it should be in the upper right corner).
14. So that Octavia owners do not become arrogant at all (“I bought an Audi for half the price”), some details remained unchanged. For example, a mechanical handbrake has long been asking to be relegated to the dustbin of automotive history. It takes up a lot of space and is completely inconvenient to use with the armrest extended and raised (as on the previous generation). But Skoda came up with the simplest invention - a holder for a mobile phone in a cup holder. And this is not counting the special compartment (see photo 13) for a mobile phone with a signal amplifier. And in the door pockets there are special compartments for garbage with replaceable bags - perhaps this is the best invention in the entire world history of the automotive industry.
15. Part of the useful space of the glove box is now occupied by a navigation system module with a DVD and two slots for SD cards. Also on the front panel there is finally a USB connector. Separately, I would like to draw attention to the ability to watch movies on the Columbus screen - this is not Apple, which is worried about the copyrights of the creators; the navigation with great pleasure reads almost all video file formats downloaded directly from torrents. 
16. Now for an Octavia for a modest 16 thousand rubles you can order not an unknown Sound System, but a real Canton with an amplifier and a subwoofer in the trunk. The acoustics are decent, but it is better to pay attention to where the tweeter is located. On the previous generation, the beepers were located next to the door opening handles and the following problem arose for the driver - if you put your left hand on the window sill, it blocked the sound from the left speaker, which was well felt by ear. Also look at the right side mirror, now it also has an automatic dimming function (as well as the left and interior mirrors), which for some reason was absent in principle on the previous generation. The side mirrors have become smaller, but visibility is not affected.
17. Keyless entry and push-button engine start are optionally available. At the same time, the button remained in the same place on the steering column, where the cylinder of an ordinary lock is. External sensors are present only on the front door handles and trunk - alas, this is not premium.
18. The instrument panel has become simpler, with more “air”. The readability of the readings has improved, but I don’t understand why there was such a huge daily mileage reset button. In the center is a high-resolution Maxidot color display, which can only show movies. It is quite overloaded with information, but there is nothing superfluous on it. Worth mentioning is the attention to detail, namely the odometer, which is complemented by a mechanical counter-style animation with numbers scrolling up.
19. The seats have received more developed lateral support and have an excellent range of adjustments.
20. Pay attention to the plastic of the front panel; from the photo it seems that it is quite rough and hard. There is some truth in this - he has become tougher, but not much, but he really looks worse. The door cards have become harder (on the rear doors, as well as on the restyled Octavia of the previous generation, there is plywood). Of course, this is the most pointless idea to check the “softness” of the plastic in the cabin, and based on this make a conclusion about the car. The main thing is that the cabin is quiet and nothing creaks. In terms of noise insulation, the new Octavia has stepped far forward, and despite the overall reduction in the weight of the car, the thickness of the side windows, for example, has only increased.
21. The space in the second row can be compared to a Superb.
22. A driver with a height of 180 cm can easily sit behind himself and at the same time cross his legs without touching the back of the seat in front.
23. As a “pleasure” for rear passengers, in addition to heated seats, which was also present on the previous generation of Octavia, there is now a 220-volt outlet.
24. The trunk is the main source of pride for Octavia owners. 570 liters of net volume, which can fit more than one bag of potatoes. A subwoofer now lives on the left, and under the floor, as before, there is a full-size spare wheel with a jack and a tool (in European versions there is no spare wheel).
25. It’s not enough for Skoda engineers to make a good car, they try in every possible way to improve it. Here, for example, is an ice scraper located on the back of the gas tank flap. Along the way, journalists discovered another potential use for it - lighting a fire on a bright sunny day. True, it was not possible to set fire to a sheet of paper, but I think that if we hint about this to the engineers, we will soon see an improved scraper with a modified lens shape. And I want to draw the attention of all owners of VW AG cars - absolutely all cars for Russia have a 98 (95) RON/ROZ sticker, although in fact both new and old engines have their own fuel specifications (usually 95 or 95/ 91).
Motors are a different story. We will not discuss the diesel engine, we will only talk about gasoline modifications. This is the latest range of EA211 series engines ranging from 1.2 to 1.8 liters. What's new about them? The chain drive of the gas distribution mechanism has been abandoned, and a belt is now used again (this has a positive effect on the noise level - the new engines are very quiet throughout the entire speed range). But the belt will no longer need to be changed and is designed to last the entire service life of the car. Now the exhaust manifold is a single part with the cylinder head, which made it possible to significantly speed up engine warming up in the cold season (the main problem of TSI engines of the previous generation, which the manufacturer solved on low-power 1.2 and 1.4 by installing additional heating elements to warm up the interior). And the intercooler was combined with the intake manifold. Well, I almost forgot - the cylinder block is now aluminum (who didn’t know, the TSI of the previous generation was cast iron).
26. In general, there are so many technical innovations in new generation engines that you can write a separate article. The only question is how maintainable these solutions will be. In the meantime, we can note a very inconvenient place for the oil filler neck (as if a hint that there will be no more oil consumption?) and the neck of the washer reservoir (not included in the frame, on the right, close to the “poker” holding the hood in the open position)
27. Changes were also made to the brake system. Everyone knows a serious problem with the Octavia Scout of the previous generation, which has brakes that do not correspond to the weight of the car. As for ordinary Octavias, the situation has also changed for the better. The smallest front brake discs are 288 mm (for the version with the 1.2TSI engine), and the 1.8TSI has discs with a diameter of 312 mm (the same as on the previous generation Octavia RS). If you look at the catalog of parts, then for the already presented Octavia RS of the new generation they will also offer front brake discs with a diameter of 340 mm! And don’t forget that the mass of the new Octavia has been reduced by about 100 kilograms. The new brakes are excellent and are more than enough for emergency braking of the car from any speed.
28. There is also bad news. Cars with an engine less than 150 horsepower will have a semi-independent beam instead of a rear multi-link suspension. While the 180 horsepower 1.8TSI has an updated multi-link suspension on the rear axle. What's wrong with a beam? Firstly, with it the suspension is noticeably stiffer, and this is especially noticeable on a rough road with medium-sized potholes - the rear wheels cannot handle the potholes independently of each other and the impacts fall on the body and passengers. If we talk about handling when cornering (on public roads, not a track), then the difference with a multi-link is minimal. Another thing is that the greatest demand will probably be for a model with a 1.4TSI engine, which means drivers will have to put up with a less comfortable suspension if they plan to drive a lot on bad roads. Or take the version with a 1.8 liter engine.
29. On a sunny afternoon, another problem was discovered. On the previous Octavia, the windshield air deflectors were covered with a fine mesh mesh (like on the speakers), which killed two birds with one stone - dust did not accumulate on it and it was not reflected in the windshield. What happened now can be seen in the photo.
30. But there are much more positive emotions from the new model, it’s just the minor shortcomings from one of the most perfectionism-obsessed car brands in the world that are somewhat surprising. Everything is clear - unification of production, reduction of costs, but if this is the case now, then what will happen in the next generation?
31. The out-of-town route of the test passed through Yoshkar-Ola (pictured on the left), where the mayor of the city went crazy and decided to build copies of all the iconic places of the world's largest metropolises in the city center. It looks too artificial, especially against the backdrop of completely broken roads in the city center (it was here that the shortcomings of the beam rear suspension on a car with a 1.4TSI engine were fully revealed). After that there were lovely and cozy Cheboksary, and at the end - the island-city of Sviyazhsk (pictured on the right), which several years ago was ruins. Now it has been almost completely restored (a paved road has been laid, excursion bureaus have been opened), and local residents have become part of the museum exhibition.
32. As for the drive, there is no doubt that the 1.8TSI tears all its competitors to shreds, both in the manual version and in the DSG7 version. Here you should especially pay attention to the torque of the new engines (photos 3 and 8), as you can see in the 1.4TSI and 1.8TSI the torque bar is electronically limited at 250 Nm. Analyzing the components used, we can draw a simple conclusion - it’s all about the maximum torque for the DSG7 robotic gearbox with dry clutches, popularly deciphered as “Two Clutches per Year” (for those who rape it with daily driving in traffic jams). The DSG7 itself has remained virtually unchanged, in D mode it goes to the highest level at the first opportunity and stalls when you need to quickly accelerate, and in Sport mode it keeps the engine in good shape at high speeds, which is somewhat annoying due to the increased noise (although it is worth noting that new engines noticeably quieter, thanks in part to the use of a timing belt instead of a chain). On the highway, everything is decided by driving in S mode on cruise (only then does the transmission go to 7th gear, while without cruise it will stubbornly hold on to sixth gear). By the way, the gear shift knob has lost the fixed mode S, now it is activated by swinging the lever down - the advantage of this solution is that you can directly activate the manual mode from S, without passing through D. On the manual, the clutch pedal has become harder and more elastic, this is unlikely Those who like to drive through Moscow traffic jams will love it.
The acceleration feels like everything again rests on the torque bar at around 250 Nm. The control unit limits the torque (although the same 1.8TSI, according to rough estimates, is capable of delivering 320 Nm without any modifications, at least comparing it with the existing third-generation EA888) and the wave of adrenaline during acceleration no longer hits you headlong. For normal use, the 1.4TSI engine is enough, and the 1.8TSI is practically the RS of the previous generation. In terms of fuel consumption, the 1.4TSI is especially noteworthy. On the highway at 110-120 km/h with dynamic overtaking, it showed a consumption of 6.6 liters according to the on-board computer (new cars, with a mileage of 200-300 km, not run-in).
And a few words about prices. When compared with the previous generation, with similar equipment, the new Octavia may even be cheaper. The basic version 1.2TSI with manual transmission starts at 590 thousand rubles. It is much more interesting to pay attention to the cost of the base 1.8TSI with manual transmission - 840 thousand rubles. It can be filled almost to capacity with options and it will cost exactly 1 million rubles. And these are the lowest prices among competitors.
Do you know at least one car that can accelerate to 100 kilometers per hour in less than 8 seconds and cost no more than 1 million rubles? Let me remind you that a manual Octavia 1.8TSI costs from 840 thousand rubles (and not in the most basic configuration), but it is a large and comfortable family car.
Most recently, a new Octavia RS was announced with a two-liter engine producing 220 horsepower, but we will wait for the new Octavia Scout (with a 5th generation Haldex clutch), which is expected to go into production at the very beginning of 2014.
Road trips July 15, 2016 White BirdHaving gone on a trip to the Vladimir and Ryazan regions in a car created in a Slavic country, we tried to answer the question of why the Skoda Octavia is so popular among Russians. The design, engineering and driving capabilities of the Czech made the ride equal parts comfortable and full of discovery.
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Test drive February 26, 2015 Musical pause Some cars remain just a means of transportation all their lives. Others are also fun. We can include the Skoda Octavia in the second group, with which we became closely acquainted in a couple of months
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City slickers: Kia Cerato, Mazda 3, Skoda Octavia, VW Golf, Audi A3 
Comparison test
It is enough to look around to understand: the main battlefield for the hearts and wallets of consumers is the “C” segment. Serious battles are raging here. Over the years, “compact city cars” are becoming larger, the engines are more powerful, the consumption is lower, and the basic equipment is richer. After all, the consumer wants everything at once, and competitors do not forgive mistakes. And even though the fighters discussed below perform in slightly different price categories, each has a couple of signature moves in stock.
Three faces
Comparison test SEAT Leon, Skoda Octavia and Volkswagen Golf look completely different, but are built on the same platform, and are identical in other respects. How do these cars, born in the same concern, drive? Is it the same? Now we know the answer to this question