Revamped look for Czech model

ŠKODA has given its Octavia model range its first major rework since the car went on sale here about 18 months ago with a new range of engines and transmissions to go with the internal and external revamp.

For the first time Octavia gets an entry-level 1.6 litre petrol engine (75 kilowatts and 148 Newton metres of torque) with standard five-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic.

The 2.0 litre, four-cylinder, petrol engine that came here on debut has now been replaced with a turbocharged 1.8 litre and standard six-speed manual. This latest engine is a little more powerful than the outgoing 2.0 litre, developing 118 kilowatts and 250 Newton metres. The "old" 2.0 litre made 110 kilowatts.

For the first time Škoda is offering a seven-speed DSG automatic as an option on Octavia touting it as the world's first transverse mounting of a sevenspeed automatic on a front-wheel drive car.

Octavia's turbo-diesel engine is a 2.0 litre, four-cylinder developing 103 kilowatts at 4000rpm and 320 Newton metres at 1750rpm. It is available with either a six-speed manual or optional six-speed DSG automatic.

Visual changes to the range run to new headlights, a bolder radiator grille and a new one-piece bumper. At the rear there are new tail light lenses and "cat eye" reflectors integrated into the bumper.

Interior changes run to a new dash design and steering wheel, revised air-conditioning controls and a revised centre console. There are also new upholstery fabrics.

ŠKODA OCTAVIA PRICING
Five-door Liftback
1.6 litre petrol: $26,990
1.8 litre petrol: $31,490
2.0 litre diesel: $33,990
Five-door Wagon
1.6 litre petrol: $28,990
1.8 litre petrol: $33,490
2.0 litre diesel: $35,990
Manual prices only. Add $2300 for automatic transmission.
(Does not include on-road costs)