CHINA

Let’s meet the OCTAVIA PRO

Tailored to local customers’ needs, the fourth-generation ŠKODA OCTAVIA enters the Chinese market 

T

he OCTAVIA model is key for the ŠKODA brand in its largest market. On 9 March, the carmaker presented the OCTAVIA PRO version, which is specially tailored to its Chinese customers, during the model’s online world premiere. The version is based on the car’s fourth-generation model; however, the overall length and wheelbase have increased, which gives the car an extremely spacious interior. The model’s dynamic appearance is underlined by its front and rear bumpers in the style of the RS sports version, along with its black roof and rear-view mirrors. The design teams in Mladá Boleslav and at SAIC VOLKSWAGEN in Shanghai took part in the development. Great emphasis was placed on the digital equipment elements of the OCTAVIA PRO model. They are dominated by the car’s extra-large infotainment touch screen and its 12-inch diagonal. Upon the customer’s request, it can be supplemented with a virtual cockpit that includes a 10.25-inch diagonal and a heads-up display. A permanent Internet connection offers access to numerous online services. The driver’s and passengers’ comfort is enhanced by the front seats, which feature heating, electric positioning and ventilation. Electric tailgate control, which is uncommon in this class, is also useful.

64

additional millimetres have been added to the standard version of the fourth-generation model to produce the OCTAVIA PRO.

78

millimetres is the increase in the overall length, compared with the third-generation model, which will continue selling in China.

1,400,000

OCTAVIA cars have already been sold on the Chinese market.

Top technical basis 

The new model is powered by its effective 1.4 TSI engine with an output of 110 kW, combined with a seven-speed electronically controlled DSG transmission. A number of assistance systems increase the car’s safety and comfort. These include the exit warning, which alerts the passengers to any vehicles or cyclists approaching from behind when the door is opened. The car also assists its driver in maintaining and changing lanes: Its digital “nervous system” relies on five cameras and 15 additional sensors, which enable the driver to see what is happening around the car in full 360 degrees. 

Sales in the Chinese market are scheduled to begin in the second quarter. At the end of April, the OCTAVIA PRO will also be unveiled at Auto Shanghai. ED

Chen Zhixiong

ŠKODA Pre-Development & Design Senior Manager, SAIC Volkswagen   

In the new OCTAVIA PRO model, its typical crystalline elements play an even more significant role and create an emotional and dynamic design. The car is decorated with both sharp and smooth lines, which, like a crystal, present an impressive play of lights and shadows. They give the car its sporty, elegant, emotional and exclusive look.

Oliver Stefani

Head of ED – ŠKODA Design

We’ve adapted the OCTAVIA PRO car to our Chinese customers’ needs. Our typical crystalline design is even more emotional this time and emphasises the exterior’s dynamic proportions. It also brings with it the style of the European OCTAVIA RS version, including the classic elements of this series, to make the car radiate both its power and sporty spirit and boast an even more spacious interior. We believe that the novelty will build on this model’s success.