Skoda Reveals A Longer Version Of The Fourth-Gen Octy

• The Octavia Pro is based on the fourth-gen version, and will be sold alongside the third-gen model in China.

• It will be powered by a 150PS/250Nm 1.4-litre TSI engine mated to a 7-speed DCT.

• It is not likely to make it to India.

• Skoda will launch the fourth-gen standard Octavia in India by June end. 

Skoda has debuted a new variant of the fourth-gen Octavia in China. Dubbed the Octavia Pro, it is a stretched version of the standard sedan. It gets a few (sportier) updates to the exterior and will go on sale alongside the third-gen Octavia.

The Pro, being a long wheelbase version of the Octavia, gets a bump in its measurements. Its wheelbase is now 44mm longer, at 2,730mm, and the car itself is 64mm longer than the standard version at 4,753mm. Its length puts it at 78mm longer than the third-gen model.

Most of the design remains unchanged from the standard fourth-gen model, save for a few elements. Styling elements such as the bumpers, 18-inch alloys, ORVMs, and a blacked-out roof have been borrowed from the RS variant. The Pro also gets an advanced multi-link suspension setup, which promises better ride and handling.

Inside, there will be more legroom for the rear occupants than the standard version thanks to the longer wheelbase.The dashboard, which remains similar in layout to the standard model, gets plenty of red inserts for a sportier feel. The Pro will come with features such as a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system; powered, heated and ventilated front seats; and a powered tailgate. Customers can also opt for a 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster and a head-up display.

Despite the sporty RS design elements, the Octavia Pro in China is only powered by a 1.4-litre turbo-petrol engine. Nope, you don’t get the bigger 2.0-litre TSI motor that’s found in the European model.  The 1.4-litre unit powered the third-gen Octavia and the erstwhile VW Jetta in India. It is capable of producing 150PS of power and 250Nm of torque and will be paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Even though it is introduced so close to home, it is unlikely that the Octavia Pro will make it to India. Only the standard fourth-gen model, which has been spied testing here, is expected to arrive by mid-2021. It is likely to carry a price tag of Rs 18 lakh (ex-showroom) and will be offered with a petrol engine only. The Octavia will rival the Hyundai Elantra when it goes on sale.