The official unveiling of Skoda’s all-new Octavia is
set for November 11, but a photo that purportedly shows the new model has
already surfaced online. Posted by the Skoda Home forum from the Czech Republic and picked up
by AutoblogNL, the image looks very much like an official photo of the 2020
Octavia — apparently taken from the configurator. If this is indeed the all-new
Octavia, fans of the nameplate should be relieved because the controversial
split headlights introduced on the facelifted model are history.
The design seems to be consistent with the official
sketches released by Skoda last week, especially when it comes to the design of
the front end. However, as it often happens with design sketches, the actual
car looks less spectacular. Compared with the outgoing third-generation
Octavia, though, it appears as a significant improvement without being
revolutionary.
The design borrows some styling cues from the
facelifted Skoda Superb including the emphasized belt line, as well as the
Scala hatchback which serves as inspiration for the triangular headlights. Mind
you, the headlamps look much better on the 2020 Octavia. While we don’t have a photo of
the rear end, its design should be similar to the official sketch, at least
when it comes to the shape of the taillights which look like a combination of
those seen on the facelifted Superb and the Scala.
As with the all-new VW Golf Mk8 which will be
officially revealed on October 24, the fourth-generation Octavia will be underpinned
by an updated version of the MQB platform. The modular architecture will
enable the use of mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains beyond the usual
crop of 1.0-liter three-cylinder and 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbocharged
gasoline units as well as 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter turbo diesels. Higher-end
models will also offer AWD.
The 2020 Octavia’s technology upgrade will continue
inside with the latest infotainment and driving assistance systems. The model
will continue to offer five-door liftback and wagon body styles, with
performance RS and Scout derivatives also on the table.
