What's the news?
Skoda has announced that it will be introducing the new Octavia Combi to Irish markets on 15th June 2013. The latest version will initially be offered in three different trim levels and will be powered by a choice of six engines.
Exterior
The new Combi estate has grown in both length and width compared to the outgoing model; and the wheelbase has increased by 108mm. The front end has been lifted from the new Octavia hatchback and the tailgate slopes to create less of the traditional boxy-estate image.
Entry-level Active models have to make do with 15-inch steel wheels with covers; while upgrading to Ambition and Elegance spec adds 16- and 17-inch alloys respectively.
Interior
Naturally with larger exterior dimensions, space inside has increased, too. Back seat passengers will benefit from improved head- and knee-room and the 610-litre boot space is claimed to put the Combi at the top of its class.
Most buyers are expected to go for the mid-range Ambition model, which offers climate control, an eight-speaker sound system and Bluetooth connectivity as standard. Top-spec Elegance cars come with dual-zone climate control, parking sensors, cruise control and a Bolero infotainment system featuring a touchscreen display and MDI connectivity.
Mechanicals
Four petrol and two diesel engines are available from launch. The entry-level unit is a 1.2-litre petrol engine that comes in two states of tune; with the 180hp 1.8-litre TSI unit topping off the range. The diesel engines come in both 1.6- and 2.0-litre guises with 105- and 150hp respectively. Start-stop is available on all engines apart from the 86hp 1.2-litre TSI unit, which helps the Octavia obtain a 74.3mpg figure when powered by the 1.6-litre TDI engine.
Anything else?
Prices for the Octavia Combi start at €19,995 for an 86hp 1.2-litre Active model and rise to €29,395 for a 1.8-litre TSI Elegance version.
As well as the models offered at launch, Skoda is also planning a four-wheel drive variant, a hot RS model and a frugal GreenLine edition of the Octavia Combi before the end of the year.