Skoda has been spied testing the 2024 Octavia with a range of tweaks inside and out.
The two Octavia test mules pictured feature mild changes to the front and rear fascia, along with a larger infotainment screen inside.
The brand has already confirmed it’ll reveal the updated Octavia in 2024.
Skoda’s current Octavia was revealed in 2019, but globally has been challenged by supply shortages for the last few years – a problem Skoda says it will rectify from the fourth quarter of 2023.
The front bumper on the updated Octavia has new air intakes for improved aerodynamics. The design closely resembles the upcoming next-generation Skoda Superb.
The bonnet has been tweaked and the grille appears more upright than before, which has been a common update to the recently revealed 2024 Scala and Kamiq.
The headlights retain their angular housing, however it’s expected Skoda may update the lighting signature design within.
Skoda has mimicked the crease lines under the headlights which will feature on the upcoming Superb, for a more sculpted and modern look.
At the rear, the tail lights will likely receive an update – but at this stage, it’s hard to make out many other changes under the camouflage.
Inside the car, Skoda has increased the size of the infotainment system and removed the touch-sensitive button controls on the side of the screen.
The Octavia will still retain its small range of physical buttons, sitting above what looks like a pair of unchanged air vents.
This prototype features a two-spoke steering wheel which is available in overseas models. It’s worth noting Australia only receives the sportier three-spoke steering wheel.
It’s hard to tell, but Skoda could adopt the latest full-screen instrument cluster from the upcoming Kodiaq, based on the lack of side digital gauges.
Currently the Octavia has digital bars on either side of the instrument cluster for fuel and engine temperature gauges.
It’s unlikely Skoda will make major changes to the powertrain until the next-generation Octavia is revealed.
Skoda is remaining tight-lipped about whether a next-generation Octavia with an internal-combustion engine will be produced as the company plans a heavy onslaught of electric cars from 2024.
The has previously said an electric station wagon will join the line-up in 2026; this is expected to replace the Octavia eventually.
Skoda Australia boss Michael Irmer has previously told CarExpert the brand has no plans to discontinue ICE vehicles in Australia before the 2030s.
In saying this, Skoda plans to reveal four new electric vehicles by 2026 alongside refreshed versions of the Enyaq and Enyaq Coupe, which Australia is yet to receive.
Skoda refers to its upcoming electric wagon as the “Combi” and says it will measure around 4700mm long which will sit between the Octavia (4689mm) and Superb (4856mm).
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