Skoda launches the new Octavia with plug-in hybrid.

Skoda expects 30 percent of sales of its latest-generation Octavia to be electrified versions.

The Octavia will have mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions for the first time to enhance the compact car’s appeal to its core business customers because of their lower CO2 emissions and better fuel economy.

The OCTAVIA iV is the second ŠKODA model to be available as a plug-in hybrid. This powertrain features a 1.4 TSI petrol engine delivering 115 kW (156 PS) and a 75-kW electric motor. Together, they produce a total power output of 150 kW (204 PS) and have a maximum torque of 350 Nm. The plug-in-hybrid variant has been equipped with a 6-speed DSG. The OCTAVIA iV will be available in any of the trim levels and models except Active and SCOUT. While the hatchback’s boot capacity is 450 l, the COMBI can hold 490 l. With a capacity of 37 Ah providing 13 kWh, the high-voltage lithium-ion battery allows for an electric range of up to 55 km in the WLTP cycle. The battery can be recharged conveniently at home from a standard household socket or wall box; the connector for charging the battery is hidden behind a flap in the wing on the driver’s side, which can be opened at the push of a button in the door trim. Other differences between the OCTAVIA iV and the variants that are driven solely by a combustion engine include a slightly smaller petrol tank (40 l instead of 45 l), the iV badge on the tailgate and the 10-inch central screen with an iV welcome logo and model-specific displays.