Skoda Auto launches a new petrol engine range for the Octavia and Superb models.

• ŠKODA fleet launches new petrol engine variants for Octavia and Superb SE Technology models
• Octavia engines include 1.0 TSI 115PS and 1.4 TSI 150PS
• All new Octavia 1.5 TSI 150PS available to order from 26 July
• Superb available with 1.4 TSI 150PS with either DSG or manual gearboxes
• State of the art technology and driver assist systems as standard across range

ŠKODA UK has launched petrol engine variants of the highly popular Octavia and Superb SE Tech models for fleet customers. Cost, practicality and safety are key components in the make-up of the models, designed with business customers in mind.

Fleet customers now have the option of petrol engines for both SE Tech hatch and estate models in the multi-award winning Octavia and Superb. The new generation direct-injection turbocharged TSI petrol engines offer drivers refinement, performance and flexibility, resulting in a quiet, fuel-efficient and dynamic drive, ideal for high-speed motorways or country and town roads.

The popular Octavia Estate 1.0 TSI 115PS DSG uses a seven speed automatic gearbox, which enables it to achieve up to 65.7 mpg on the combined cycle and 108 g/km CO2 with enough power to deliver 0-62 mph in just 10.2 seconds. The Estate model offers low p11d values starting from £20,755 with a BIK rate of 23%. Also available is the 1.4 TSI 150PS with manual and DSG gearbox. From 26 July, an all-new 1.5 litre engine featuring active cylinder technology (ACT) will join the line-up and will be available with a manual gearbox and offer p11d values starting at just £19,615 for the hatch and £20,815 for the estate. The DSG version will be introduced in the Autumn.

The ŠKODA Superb is available with a 1.4 TSI engine that delivers an impressive 150PS and achieves 0-62mph in less than nine seconds. Performance and practicality are combined with privacy glass and a leather and Alcantara interior, and the Estate boasts a class-leading 660 litre boot space (1,950 litres with the seats down).

Henry Williams, ŠKODA Head of Fleet, comments: “We have added petrol engines to the ŠKODA fleet range due to increasing demand from customers. Octavia and Superb already offer a formidable package and by adding even more choice we are demonstrating our commitment to respond to the changing market and the needs of our customers.”

Both Superb and Octavia are the perfect companions for business, combining useful tech and the spacious interior that is synonymous with the ŠKODA model line-up. Each features an 8-inch touchscreen navigation system as standard and the inclusion of SmartLink+ which links to both Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM, plus a MAXI-Dot Trip computer system, to bring the office on the road with you.

For peace of mind for drivers and fleet managers, the new Octavia offers a range of driver assist systems as standard to optimise driving efficiency and safety. Features include Front assist, which uses radar technology to monitor distances from the vehicle in front and will automatically slow the car down if it detects a possible collision. Front assist with pedestrian protection also warns the driver when a pedestrian attempts to dangerously cross the path of car, and will emit a combined audio and visual signal as well as a gentle jolt of the brakes to keep both parties safe.

As well as a class-leading boot space of 1,580 litres (hatch) with the seats down (590 with seats up) the new Octavia features LED daytime running lights, front and rear parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control – ideal to maintain efficiency on longer journeys.

The ŠKODA Superb’s award-winning design boasts technical sophistication too, with Wi-Fi and phone signal booster to keep drivers synced with their business whilst on the road, as well as a multifunctional steering wheel that connects to the 8-inch touch screen infotainment system. To make life even easier, additional features include, umbrellas in both front doors and keyless entry.

To help keep drivers alert and safe on the road, Superb offers Blind Spot Detection as well as Smart Light Assist, which enables the driver to see further ahead when driving in the dark and alerts to any upcoming obstacles. Traffic Jam assist uses sensors to detect your surroundings and automatically aligns you to the centre of the lane and assists in braking when traffic is slowing down or comes to a stop in front of you.

Skoda launches the new flagship Octavia model, the strikingly quick vRS model.

• 2.0 TSI petrol now with 169 kW (230 hp), 2.0 TDI diesel also with all-wheel drive
• New front end, full-LED headlights, vRS-specific details
• Top technologies for infotainment, connectivity and driver assistance systems set standards in compact class

Just weeks after introducing the extensively modernised ŠKODA OCTAVIA, the Czech automobile manufacturer presents the top model in the series – the ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS.

The new front section, modified rear and sporty interior highlight its dynamic character. The upgraded ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS is available as a hatchback and estate. 

Both body styles have two four-cylinder engines to choose from. While the 2.0 TDI diesel engine has the same 135 kW (184 hp) output as previously, the performance of the 2.0 TSI petrol engine has increased by 7 kW (10 hp) to 169 kW (230 hp), making it the most powerful and fastest series-production model in the history of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA. 

New premium technologies supporting infotainment, connectivity and driver assistance systems emphasise the exceptional position of the compact sports car in its segment.

Dynamic design

The appearance of the new ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS accentuates the extensively redeveloped design of the series in a particularly sporty and emotional way: The new front section with a wider radiator grille, which has been extended with additional headlamps featuring a crystalline look, and the even wider air intakes with honeycomb structure in the redesigned bumpers are masculine and dynamic. The four full-LED headlights with Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), as well as the LED side-mounted headlights integrated into the bumper shape the new front end. At the rear, the hatchback’s spoiler and the estate’s roof spoiler set independent accents.

The rear is dominated by a powerful black diffuser element and broad red reflector lamp above. These elements are unmistakable characteristics of the upgraded ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS. In addition, the model now features LED-technology license plate illumination and taillights in the classic C-design as standard.

The interior of the new ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS is characterized by the vRS-Sport seats which provide plenty of lateral support thanks to high sides and integrated headrests. In addition to the leather/fabric combination, the sports seats are now also available in Alcantara as an option. The multi-function sports steering wheel (for DSG gearbox with shift paddles) has a perforated leather crown. Ambient lighting comes as standard. The recesses of the door handles are illuminated, the pedals shine in an aluminium finish, and the entry panels bear the vRS logo. ŠKODA-typical ‘Simply-Clever’solutions include an umbrella under the passenger seat and a removable LED lamp in the boot of the estate.

Chassis, technology, engines

The 15 mm lower sports suspension and the rear track, 30 mm wider than the predecessor, as well as the red brake callipers underline the dynamic character of the new ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS. 18-inch wheels are available as standard, while 19-inch wheels are available as an option.

Progressive steering, Performance Mode Select with Performance Sound Generator (option), the stability program ESC with electronic cross barrier XDS+ and Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) add to the intensive driving pleasure of the new ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS. DCC allows the driver to choose between Comfort, Normal or Sport modes.

The new engine of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS 2.0 TSI provides 169 kW (230 hp) and has a maximum torque of 350 Nm at 1,500 to 4,600 rpm. The front-wheel drive sports model sprints from 0 to 62mph in 6.7 seconds. The model’s top speed is 155 mph. The combined fuel consumption is 43.4 mpg (149 g CO2/km; all values: hatchback with manual transmission). As standard, the ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS 2.0 TSI is equipped with a manual 6-speed manual gearbox, optionally with a 6-speed DSG.

In the ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS 2.0 TDI, a diesel engine with an output of 135 kW (184 hp)and a maximum torque of 380 Nm from 1,750 rpm ensures acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 144 mph. The combined fuel consumption is 62.8 mpg (119 g CO2/km, all values: hatchback with manual transmission). The ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS 2.0 TDI is available either with front-wheel drive (manual or 6-speed DSG) or 4×4-wheel drive and 6-speed DSG.

Infotainment and ŠKODA Connect

As all versions in the series, the current ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS features the latest generation of infotainment systems. The capacitive touch displays are designed in glass. The top version is the navigation system Columbus with a 9.2-inch monitor, WLAN hotspot and optional LTE module.

Driver assistance systems

The wide range of driver assistance systems in ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS sets new standards in the compact class. New features include Trailer Assist, Blind Spot Detect, which warns the driver of vehicles in the blind spot, and Rear Traffic Alert, which monitors side and rear traffic when leaving a parking space. The Crew Protect Assist closes windows and sunroofs in the event of an imminent accident, tightens driver and passenger seatbelts and works in conjunction with the improved Front Assist including city emergency braking and predictive pedestrian protection.

History

The abbreviation RS was first used for racing cars in 1974, and has been used for the top sporty versions in the ŠKODA model range since the year 2000, with the vRS moniker adopted for the UK market. To date, more than 200,000 ŠKODA OCTAVIA RS and vRS models have been sold worldwide, of which 100,000 units of the third generation that was launched in 2013.

Two new Octavia models give added equipment for little or not increase in cost.

• New SE Sport and SE Technology models added to the Octavia line-up
• SE Sport adds technology and design features, including Amundsen navigation with Wi-Fi
• SE Sport offers customer value of over £3,150 compared to standard SE
• SE Technology replaces SE Business grade and adds more kit and improved value
• Significant customer value for both retail buyers and company car drivers
• Wide range of engine and transmission options - hatch and Estate available

ŠKODA is adding two new trim levels to its best-selling Octavia range – SE Sport and SE Technology. Both new models offer significant equipment boosts over the standard SE models and have been created to satisfy buyer demands for the latest in-car technology and sporty design.

Priced from £19,990 OTR, the Octavia SE Sport is available in hatch and estate form and is offered with two engine options: 1.4 TSI 150PS and 1.6 TDI 110PS, with the option of a DSG gearbox on both. 

As part of the standard specification, SE Sport models stand out from the crowd thanks to 17-inch Denom alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, LED Daytime running lights with automatic activation and LED rear lights. 

 Inside, SE Sport models feature sport seats, a Super Sport Multi-Function Steering Wheel and an automatic dimming rear view mirror, while standard technology includes Amundsen satellite navigation system with Wi-Fi and cruise control.

Despite its raft of additional equipment offered on the SE Sport, it costs just £950 more than the standard SE. That means buyers choosing the SE Sport over the SE benefit from over £3,150 of customer value over the cost of individual options.

Joining the SE Sport in the expanded Octavia line-up is a new SE Technology model. It can be specified in hatch or estate forms, and is available with four TDI diesel options with power outputs ranging from 110PS to 150PS. 

The 1.6 TDI 110PS engine can be specified with a DSG automatic, customers can also choose the frugal GreenLine III engine that offers exceptional economy of up to 80.7mpg on the combined cycle and CO₂emissions of 90g/km.

Like the SE Sport model, the SE Technology comes with a specification list that’s bursting at the seams with equipment. 

Among the technology features included over the standard SE are an Amundsen satellite navigation system with Wi-Fi, a four-spoke Multifunction steering wheel, adaptive cruise control (standard cruise control on GreenLine III models) and front and rear parking sensors. 

The equipment list also features a Chrome pack and double-sided boot floor covering along with light and rain sensors.

The SE Technology replaces the current SE Business model and enjoys a specification that delivers significant value to company car drivers. 

Despite its increased specification – with options that would normally cost £1,830 on the standard SE – the SE Technology commands a premium of £275 over the outgoing model. This gives a customer saving of £1,155.

For company car drivers choosing the 1.6 TDI 110PS model, the benefits in terms of BiK payments are also significant. Drivers in the 20% tax bracket can save up to £177 a year, while drivers in the 40% tax bracket can save up to £355 when compared to the previous SE Business specified with the same additional equipment as the new SE Technology.

		CO2	Basic	VAT	RRP	OTR
Hatch SE Sport	1.4 TSI 150PS	118	£16,187.50	£3,237.50	£19,425.00	£19,990.00
	1.4 TSI 150PS DSG	112	£17,229.17	£3,445.83	£20,675.00	£21,240.00
	1.6 TDI 110PS	100	£16,925.00	£3,385.00	£20,310.00	£20,875.00
	1.6 TDI 110PS DSG	101	£17,966.67	£3,593.33	£21,560.00	£22,125.00
Estate SE Sport	1.4 TSI 150PS	119	£17,204.17	£3,440.83	£20,645.00	£21,210.00
	1.4 TSI 150PS DSG	114	£18,245.83	£3,649.17	£21,895.00	£22,460.00
	1.6 TDI 110PS	101	£17,941.67	£3,588.33	£21,530.00	£22,095.00
	1.6 TDI 110PS DSG	102	£18,983.33	£3,796.67	£22,780.00	£23,345.00

	Engine	CO2	Basic	VAT	RRP	OTR
Hatch SE Technology	1.6 TDI 110PS	99	£16,133.33	£3,226.67	£19,360.00	£19,925.00
	1.6 TDI 110PS DSG	99	£17,175.00	£3,435.00	£20,610.00	£21,175.00
	1.6 TDI 110PS GreenLine III	90	£16,383.33	£3,276.67	£19,660.00	£20,225.00
	2.0 TDI 150PS	106	£16,870.83	£3,374.17	£20,245.00	£20,810.00
Estate SE Technology	1.6 TDI 110PS	99	£17,150.00	£3,430.00	£20,580.00	£21,145.00
	1.6 TDI  110PS DSG	99	£18,191.67	£3,638.33	£21,830.00	£22,395.00
	1.6 TDI 110PS GreenLine III	90	£17,383.33	£3,476.67	£20,860.00	£21,425.00
	2.0 TDI 150PS	106	£17,887.50	£3,577.50	£21,465.00	£22,030.00

Both new models are available to order now.