17 minute read
AUTO BIZ
THE REIGNING OCTAVIA
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Jiji Varghese
This is the brand’s biggest-selling model – Skoda has sold 3.7 million globally since 1996 – but more than that, its evolution is a three-generation account of Skoda’s triumphant rise from former Eastern Bloc hulk to Volkswagen Group darling. In India too Skoda Octavia laid a firm foundation for other Skoda cars. Now, this model has changed significantly; not only to maximize its own potential but also to make space for another car in the firm’s line-up. For 2017, the third generation Octavia was given a facelift, albeit a slightly controversial one. Changes weren’t merely cosmetic, although the most
poignant ones were, which included a more streamlined bonnet, redesigned rear and tail lights, and the decision to split the headlight cluster into two sections.
German all the way If the letters ‘MQB’ aren’t already part of your automotive lexicon, the Skoda Octavia is yet another reminder why they should be. The Volkswagen Group’s modular platform underpins a large number of models across the various brands. The key to that breadth of application is flexibility, evidenced here by the fact that the Octavia’s wheelbase is a
108mm longer than its predecessors. Despite also growing in height and width, the repercussions for the styling are deftly handled. This remains a well-proportioned car; it’s anonymous, and cursed with a huge tailgate to manhandle, but it never appears ungainly or oversized.
The effect is a dramatic enhancement of rear legroom, far-flung C-pillars and a 90mm addition to the previous car’s total length (18mm is concealed in a shorter front overhang).
What the bigger body doesn’t do, impressively, is add to the secondgeneration car’s kerb weight. Better selection of materials – not least the greater use of high-tensile steel in the
platform – and lighter components mean that Skoda claims as much as a 102kg weight saving over the previous Octavia.
Under the fluff, the Octavia gets a new suspension set-up — albeit one still made up of MacPherson struts at the and a torsion beam rear axle. Highperformance vRS versions get more dramatic power outputs from the 2.0 TSI and TDI engines, as well as the more sophisticated multi-link rear suspension that the regular models are denied.
Modern yet Functional Inside the Octavia got more clever touches including a new bottle holder, an integrated torch in the boot, similar to the latest Superb, and updated infotainment systems. Skoda’s have traditionally been simple, straightforward, no-nonsense cars, and they are themes that are largely continued inside the latest Skoda Octavia.
The driver’s and front passenger’s seats are large and flat but remain comfortable over distances, while generous storage cubbies abound, including places that will take a 1.5-litre water bottle.
The rear seats are similarly accommodating, and even large occupants will be able to get comfortable. Wide door openings, a broad seat base and generous headroom are all present and correct. The rear seatbacks fold (although they don’t leave a flat floor, which is only a mild disappointment) in front of a large boot.
With those rear seats in place, the load space amounts to 590 liters, rising to 1590 liters with the seats folded. The big, heavy tailgate takes a bit of lifting,
ACHUTH KRISHNAN
but at least it means there’s a large opening.
The luxurious and range-topping Laurin&Klement trim gives the Octavia 16in alloy wheels, cornering front fog lights, LED rear lights, heated front seats, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, LED ambient interior lighting, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and start, numerous safety technologies, an auto-dimming and folding wing mirrors. If that wasn’t enough you also get a 9.2in infotainment touchscreen display and a Canton audio system as standard too. The cabin’s design, meanwhile, is relatively clean and simple. The dials are crisp and additional display systems easy to read, backed up by large buttons. The recent facelift has also done wonders to lift the appeal of the cabin to give an added plushness and moderness to an already ergonomically pleasing cabin.
Those after a few more thrills from their Octavia can opt for the vRS, which is available with a 227bhp 2.0TSI unit which powered the pre-facelifted vRS 230 in International markets. Regardless of the powertrain the equipment level is the same - 18in alloy wheels, adaptive full LED headlights, vRS-specific fog lights, an aggressive vRSbody kit, red brake calipers, sports seats, an advanced traction control system, auto wipers and lights and Skoda’s Amundsen infotainment system. PRICE Rs. 15.99 – 22.69 (Petrol) Rs. 17.99 – 25.25 (Diesel) Rs. 26.78 (RS) ENGINE In-line 4 cylinder Turbocharged petrol engine, direct injection system/ diesel engine with common rail system RATED OUTPUT (hp) @ rpm 148at 6000, 178 at 6200 (P) 140 at 4000 (D) 232 at 6200 (RS) DISPLACEMENT 1.4L (1,395cc), 1.8 L (1798cc) (P) 2.0 L (1,968cc) (D) 2.0 L (1,984cc) (RS) TRANSMISSION 6–Speed Manual/ 7-Speed AutomaticDSG (P, D) 6–Speed Automatic DSG(RS) TORQUE 250 at 1250 (P), 320 at 3000 (D) 350 at 4500 (RS) LENGTH 4.670m (P and D) 4.689m (RS) WEIGHT 1,825 Kg (P) 1,860 Kg (D) 1,907 Kg (RS) FUEL Petrol / Diesel WHEELS/TIRES 205/55 R16 (P and D) 225/45 R17 (RS)
Sure Footed The Skoda Octavia features a range offamiliar VW Group engine and transmission options. Four power plants are a 148bhp 1.4-litre petrol, 178bhp 1.8-litre petrol a range-topping 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel and a 227bhp 2.0TSI in vRS.
TSI petrol and 2.0-litre diesel models get a six-speed manual gearbox, but the vRS only gets DSG for the sportier moniker.
Dual-clutch automatic gearboxes are available as well; whether you prefer the automatic or the alternative (and cheaper) manual option will primarily be a matter of personal preference. The DSG gearbox works very well in the Octavia, and goes about its job quietly and unobtrusively.
If you’re set on a diesel option, it’s probably best to go for the 2.0-litre diesel. While it may be a little harsh at higher speeds, it’ll return good economy and may prove even more frugal than the harder-worked 1.4-litre TSiunit. Don’t entirely discount the petrol options though: they’re quiet, smooth and willing and, if you’re not
covering starship mileages each year, the running costs won’t be excessive. The vRS models come inpetrol and is obviously the purist’s choice and regardless ofwhether you opt for the standard car of the vRSyou are getting a free-revving turbocharged unit that puts on the same footing as the big three German’s for character, power steers with only modest briskness, but also with utterly predictable weight and respectable accuracy.
It holds a straight line with ease, and although a touch more positivity around the straight ahead wouldn’t hurt, the best thing you can say about the steering is that it doesn’t really enter your consciousness.
Ditto the rest of the driving experience. Seldom is there a jolt over a rough surface or a serious cabin intrusion from a motorway expansion joint. In fact, the Octavia is a perfectly acceptable A-road and motorway companion. Noise levels are low at idle and, thanks to the lengthy gearing, stay low at higher speeds.
It all contributes to making the Skoda a pretty tireless thing to pilot for mile after mile.
output and flexibility.
There are things Skoda Octavia drivers want and there are things they don’t want. And one of the things they don’t want, by all accounts, is a handling package honed at the Nürburgring and a teeth-jarring ride as a result.
Instead, they want a car that steers with ease, rides with aplomb and leaves you feeling rested having driven it. True to form, that’s what they’ve got here. At 2.7 turns lock to lock, the Octavia
Simply Clever The Skoda Octavia makes a decent case for itself with adequate kit levels, a high degree of practicality, low running costs and a comfortable and refined interior.
Besides offering more kit and being easier to live with, it’ll prove easier to sell on and potentially hold its value better.
All of the engines are frugal but, predictably, many buyers will make a beeline for diesel variants which will further help prop up the residual values of the models in question.
The car’s practicality is outstanding, while material quality and equipment are as good as anything at the price. Factor in the Octavia’s range of decent engines and low running costs, and the overall package is an appealing and sensible one, even despite its questionable post-facelift face.
Consequently, those looking for comfortable, robust, well-appointed family transport could do no better; ultimately, that’s what earns the Skoda Octavia its five full road test star.
horoscope
SEP 21 TO OCT 20 2018
Suresh kumar + 91 9496795629, vishnushangu@gmail.com
ARIES
During this period emphasis will be on career and outwardly ambitions as planets are getting crowded in the northern sector of the horoscope. Your career growth will happen at its own speed and you have to be tolerant enough to allow it to happen. You should try to be a witness and should not try to force things. Regarding the Finance, monetary success comes from your social connections after the 26th of the month. Your career will be a major source of income. Regarding the Relationships, your social life will be active during this period. Singles will succeed in getting their romantic partners. Your Health will be excellent till the 26th and after that it will be problematic. Proper diet, good rest and sound emotional health will improve your well being.
TAURUS
Your progress depends on others as the planetary power is excessive in the western sector of the horoscope. Your new career prospects are coming your way because of your social connections and activities. Your financial confidence is not excellent and you are unable to take correct and fast decisions regarding investments. You can use this slack period to have your financial acumen, and to improve your products and services. Speculations will be dangerous after the 24th. However your financial prosperity is boosted by the finances of your spouse or partner. The finances of your partner, which was on a down trend, suddenly spike up and are wonderful during this period. Your health will be wonderful throughout this period.
GEMINI
Family affairs and psychological health will be in focus this month. Regarding the Career, you should support careers of others as your own career is going nowhere. You will get the returns in future when you will get their support to further your career. Regarding the Finance, the presence of Planet Mars in the Money House will make you more reckless. You may invest money in speculative projects during this period. You have the support of your friends in financial ventures and they will provide you with new openings for earning money. You will spend money on making your financial methods more sophisticated with the introduction of new technology. Your Health will be excellent during this period.
CANCER
Your social life become powerful this month and your success depends on others. Your career will not be on the radar during this period. You can plan the future of your career by visualizing and be ready with a course of action to be executed in the future. Regarding the Finance, you will earn money by investing in sales and marketing ventures. You have to find a solution
with your partner on a financial problem. Money comes from family contacts, family ventures and property transactions. You will be spending on equipment to enhance technology. Domestic projects will require money. Your Health will be superb till the 24th , after that , you require more breaks and rest.
LEO
Your family and emotional aspects of life take precedence over professional matters and outward success. Regarding the Career, you will have the support of your family members in the growth of your career. As your career is on the back burner this month, you can help others to further their career prospects. If you are in search of a job, you will succeed in getting a job of your liking during this period. Your financial prosperity is good until the 25th of the month. This period will be auspicious for large investments and purchases. This financial impasse will give you enough time to analyze your financial strategies and to work out a more viable monetary future. Your Health will be wonderful during this period.
VIRGO
You will be happy to others achieve professional growth with your encouragement. Your own career is not that important this month. Regarding the
Finance, Power in the Money House will give you very good financial prospects and there will be overall help from others towards your financial ventures. On the other hand, retrograde of Mercury in the Money House introduces an element of restraint and your financial intelligence will be muddled. After the 25th, all procurements and investments should be postponed to the next month till the clarity emerges. Your Health will be extraordinary and energy levels will be outstanding during this period.
LIBRA
Family interests and emotional security will be vital this month. Your career goals are based on the welfare of your family and your social contacts, and you are out of the picture. Your monetary position will improve after the 27th of the month. Overall earnings are good during this period. Monetary skills of your spouse are excellent and you are being supported by your partner financially. Regarding the Relationships, singles will be able to attract romantic partners easily with their allure. You have to be careful in taking important decisions regarding family affairs. Your health prospects are much better this month. You should not get in to unnecessary controversies and fights.
SCORPIO
Your emphasis will be on family matters and psychological security. Regarding the Career, you have to put your best foot forward to succeed in your profession. Involvement in philanthropic organizations will enhance your career prospects. Association with social contacts and professional groups will help your career, Your finances are showing gradual improvement. Money making will be harder till the 27th and requires more effort. As you are blessed with excessive energy, this should not be problem. Financial prosperity will be enhanced by your intuition and by spiritual guidance after the 27th. Your health will be wonderful this period and can be improved further by resorting to a good dietary regime. shooting up. Regarding the Relationships, love matters are not that important this month and you can allow it to take its own course. Your Health will be superb during this period.
AQUARIUS
SAGITTARIUS
Career and outer success will dominate over family and emotional issues this month. Your professional growth will be good during this period. There is divergence in your career interests, personal desires and family obligations. Your success depends on balancing these various activities. You can expect improvement of rank in your official position coupled with financial rewards. Your financial prosperity will be good over a long period. Presently your financial expectations are too high and in relation to that your earnings look small. Be tolerant and wait for money to flow. You should try to balance your budget by cutting down your expenses. Your health will be delicate till the 24th of the month.
CAPRICORN
Career and outer accomplishments will rule over family interests and emotional matters this month. Regarding the Career, this is a very good period for career development and your growth will be outstanding. There will be improvement of status in your current job. Your financial earnings show no marked progress. This is a good month for procurement or investments. Your spouse or partner is doing extremely well and his/her earnings are Your focus during this month will be on career and worldly success. You will reach a peak in your profession this month. You are helped by the forward movement of Pluto, your career planet on the 24th. This will give you clarity regarding your professional ambitions and will remove old obstructions. Career will see many significant changes during this period and it is necessary that you maintain harmonious relationship with your seniors and elders. Your earnings will be sufficient if you keep a strict watch on your expenses. Until the 28th, you will have no problem in raising money for your monetary projects. Your health will be excellent during this period.
PISCES
Your career interests and worldly success will be in focus this month. There will be changes in your job due to the unfavorable aspects of Uranus and Pluto. There will be turmoil at the office and you should try to maintain peace with your colleagues. Your personal finances are not of prime importance this month. Hence, you can use your skills and efforts to encourage others to succeed financially. You will progress your financial life if you share your money with the finances of others. This month should cut down all unnecessary expenses and keep your budget to your basic necessities. Your Health will be delicate till the 24th of the month. You regain your energy levels after that and health improves.
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