Skoda unveiled at the Paris Auto Show the updated version of the Octavia. Although the Czech automaker does not sell to the U.S., they are owned by the Volkswagen Group, so its fun to see what comes out of the VW parts bin. In the case of the Octavia, it shares most of its parts with cars like the VW Golf->ke164 and Jetta->ke306 as well as a few from the Audi A3. The 2009 Octavia includes some minor tweaks including newly shaped headlamps, radiator grille and a one-piece bumper. The revision to the rear is mainly about new tail lamp covers and a dynamic bumper with integrated cat eyes.

Škoda's rummage through VW parts continues with the engines including the 1.4-liter TSI engine and turbocharged 1.4 and 1.8-liter gas engines. The higher end powertrains can be combined with a seven-speed twin-clutch automatic DSG transmission. Although Škoda mainly sells rebadged Volkswagen products, the benefit comes in idea that it is VW products at usually a lower price.

Press release after the jump.

2009 Skoda Octavia

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2009 Skoda Octavia
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Press release

As a world premiere, Škoda Auto is going to present a facelifted version of the Octavia at this year's Paris Motor Show (2-19 October, 2008).

Produced or assembled in altogether eight countries, the Octavia is Škoda's bestseller. The rejuvenated version is now coming with a more emotionally powerful design. “The Octavia has always had a special position among Škoda vehicles. It is our most successful model, very popular worldwide. Now it has gone through a complete transformation that is apparent in the new interior and exterior, as well as the applied technology,” said Dr. Eckhard Scholz, BOD Member responsible for technological development.

When looking from the front, the key enhancements include newly shaped, bolder headlamps, a more robust radiator grille and a one-piece bumper. The innovation of the rear part of the vehicle is mainly about new tail lamp covers and a dynamic bumper with integrated cat eyes.

The interior offers an innovated line of Škoda audio and navigation systems. The steering wheel, the dashboard (white-backlit), the air conditioning controls and the decorative strips on the doors and the central console have been redesigned. In addition, new upholstery fabrics are available across all equipment levels (Classic, Ambiente and Elegance).

New adaptive xenon headlamps enhance the vehicle's active safety, passive safety has been improved by installing front WOKS headrests for effective rear impact protection (in all equipment levels).

Innovative changes are to be found also under the bonnet – Škoda is coming with a brand new 1.4 TSI/90 kW engine. Turbocharged 1.4 and 1.8 litre petrol engines can be combined with a seven-speed twin-clutch automatic DSG transmission.

Besides modernised Octavia, Octavia Combi and Octavia Combi 4×4 vehicles, the Company is going to present the entire portfolio of Škoda cars in its stand, including e.g., a black Fabia SportLine with an exclusive grey roof, the Roomster Cycling and, of course, Škoda's flagship – the new Superb. GreenLine, the Company's environmentally friendly portfolio, is going to be represented by several versions of the Fabia and Superb. Those who prefer a dynamic lifestyle will surely appreciate the Scout version of the Roomster and the Octavia.