The Skoda Octavia is bigger in size than its previous two generations, and yet due to MQB upbringing it is significantly lighter than the present Laura (sold as 2nd generation Octavia in other markets). In fact, the diesel DSG variant is about 70 kg lighter than Laura on paper. The car can spoil auto enthusiast with its lavish comfort features and opulence in space volume. The sedan boasts of a cavernous 590 litres boot, which if were a little more could hold mass of a Tata Nano (kerb weight 635 kg). The equipped suspension system is good, but feels a little rusty while negotiating speed bumps.
The new 2014 Octavia is offered in three trim options, namely Active, Ambition and Elegance. There are two petrol powertrain options available including a 1.4 TSI engine with rated power-torque outputs of 140 PS and 250 Nm, alongside a 1.8 TSI engine rated at 180 PS power and 250 Nm torque. The 2.0 liter TDI diesel power-mill churns out top power and torque figures of 143 PS and 320 Nm. The 1.8 liter TSI petrol comes equipped with the cutting-edge 7 speed DSG automatic transmission gearbox that can handle a highest torque figure of 250 Nm. However, the 1.4 liter suffers from a definite turbo lag at lower rpm, which is somewhat noticeable during hectic city traffic.
The 2014 Skoda Octavia has the most regal character in its segment, and is trimmed with several top notch gadgets in its new avatar. The exterior simplicity rides well into the interior styling front, besides this executive sedan looks and feels more airy and spacious in comparison to its more upmarket Laura sibling. Compared to Laura, the Octavia cabin feels noticeably spacious and airy, front and back. The seats are plush and soft touch plastics adorn the dashboard and door pads. The black-beige dual tone colour setting lends a contemporary touch, while there is opulence in use of leather and leatherette on the side and back areas. Further, acres of space speak volume for the car’s best-in-class legroom, headroom and shoulder room attributes.
