After numerous teases Skoda has finally unveiled the 3rd generation Octavia

After numeral teases, Skoda has finally revealed the third generation under the successful Octavia series. The 2013 Octavia is the first to utilise parent company - Volkswagen's versatile MQB platform. The new Octavia is 90mm longer, 45mm wider, and has an extended wheelbase of 2,686mm. 

Thanks to the expanded dimensions, interior space has been boosted, benefitting its occupants. According to Skoda, the Octavia offers a class leading interior space at 1,782mm and the largest boot with a volume of 590 litres. 

The exterior design of the car is sleek and handsome with the rear end reminding us of the older Audi A4 series. One design feature to carry over to other models is the upswept window line on the rear doors, called the fin.

Inside, Skoda has added the latest infotainment systems and other tech perks including Adaptive Cruise Assistant and Traffic Sign Recognition. Other novelties include Intelligent Light Assistant that engages the high beam and turns it off automatically, a panoramic sunroof and the Driving Mode Selection.

The third generation Octavia will be offered with a selection of eight turbocharged petrol and diesel engines. These include a 1.4-litre TSI petrol delivering 120bhp, a 1.8-litre TSI petrol producing 177bhp. A fuel efficient 1.6-litre TDI in GreenLine trim generates 109bhp while returning 3.4L/100km, with CO2 emissions of just 89g/km. The powertrain can be mated to either a manual or DSG transmissions.

Besides an estate variant, the Octavia is also provided with an all-wheel drive version too. A RS badged performance variant powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine akin to the seventh generation VW Golf GTI will follow up late next year as well.

The latest Octavia will have a formal unveiling presentation at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show in March.