Skoda Auto India has confirmed the return of the Skoda Octavia Diesel to the Indian market this September. This move comes five years after the Volkswagen Group, Skoda’s parent company, phased out diesel engines in India. The diesel variant of the Octavia will be imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU) under the Indian government’s GSR 870 rule.
The Skoda Octavia Diesel will feature a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine producing 150 horsepower, paired with an automatic gearbox. It boasts a length of 4670 mm, width of 1814 mm, height of 1476 mm, and a wheelbase of 2688 mm. With a seating capacity of five, a boot space of 590 litres, and a fuel tank capacity of 50 litres, it promises both comfort and utility.
The Octavia Diesel is equipped with advanced safety features such as ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Its suspension system includes McPherson struts at the front and a compound link crank axle at the rear. Additional features like dual-zone automatic AC, rear AC vents, reverse camera, and cruise control enhance its overall appeal.
This model will be identical to the one sold in the UK, guaranteeing that Indian customers receive the same high-quality features and performance as their international counterparts.
The decision to bring back the diesel engine is a response to the enduring demand for diesel vehicles in the Indian market. Despite the broader auto industry’s shift towards electrification and cleaner energy sources, there remains a segment of consumers who value the driving range and torque that diesel engines offer.
Skoda Auto India brand director, Petr Janeba, confirmed the launch timeline during an interaction at the Octavia RS drive event. He mentioned that the diesel-powered version of the sedan would arrive in India in time for the festive season, specifically in late September. Janeba also highlighted ongoing internal discussions to finalize the pricing of this eagerly awaited model.
The return of the Skoda Octavia Diesel to the Indian market is a significant move by Skoda. It caters to a specific segment of consumers who appreciate the benefits of diesel engines. However, pricing will be key in the success of the Octavia diesel.
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