Geneva Motor Show 2004 - Skoda

Skoda’ next-generation Octavia hatch made its world debut at the Geneva show.

Based on the latest VW Golf platform also shared with the Audi A3, the new Octavia has more space, greater quality and more advanced technology than its predecessor.

It goes on UK sale this summer, and a wide choice of petrol and diesel engines will be available, ranging from a 1.4 petrol to a 2.0 diesel. The 1.9 and 2.0 diesel models come with the Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) transmission, already used on the Audi TT. This is a semi-automatic ’box with two internal clutches for quicker, smoother gearchanges.

An increase on current prices is likely, but because Skoda is targeting the new Vauxhall Astra as the Octavia’s major rival, the entry-level 1.4 should still come in at less than £11,000.

For that, buyers will get more equipment and a much more practical car than the outgoing Octavia, including the biggest boot in class - up from 1328 litres to 1350 litres. There's also more space for rear-seat passengers.

Standard equipment levels will improve on the old car’, with every model having four airbags, anti-lock brakes, remote central locking, a height-adjustable driver’s seat and ISOFIX child seat mountings.

Until 2005, the old model will remain on sale alongside the new car in estate and sporting vRS form.