The All-new ŠKODA OCTAVIA through the Eyes of Its Chief Designer

The fourth generation of the OCTAVIA is bigger and, thanks to the new proportions and ŠKODA design language, even more emotive and dynamic than its successful predecessor. The new front apron, narrower headlights and newly designed, shallow roof rails emphasise the elongated silhouette of the OCTAVIA COMBI, while the hatchback looks as elegant as a coupé. Head of ŠKODA Design Oliver Stefani describes the results.

The new ŠKODA OCTAVIA was first introduced in Prague

How does the new OCTAVIA develop the ŠKODA design language?

The OCTAVIA is an icon for the entire brand and is constantly driving our design development forwards. In the new generation, we are keen to highlight its practical character in an aesthetic way.

Oliver Stefani
Head of ŠKODA Design

How would you describe the design of the new-generation OCTAVIA?

The OCTAVIA’s core values have always been functionality, practicality, elegance and timeless design. In the new generation, we have focused on placing even more of an accent on ‘design’ as an established value. The all-new OCTAVIA is more dynamic and emotionally charged than ever, yet remains functional and practical. We have managed to combine these aspects very effectively and I am sure that customers will love it.

What would you say are the all-new OCTAVIA’s design highlights?

We have improved the car’s proportions, so now the all-new OCTAVIA delivers an even more confident and bold impression. We are invested not only in the overall brand’s design identity, but also in the individual character of each model. That’s why, in the new-generation OCTAVIA, you can see the evolution of its very characteristic double light signature in the front and, needless to say, the typical ŠKODA grille with its vertical slats. The rear section is graced with C-shape tail lights, which have long been part of the ŠKODA DNA. The entire rear is now much more sculptural and three dimensional.

The expressive shoulder line visually stretches the body and lends the car a dynamic look.

The spacious and airy interior comes with all-new architecture, but remains faithful to the typical ŠKODA line, which perfectly combines functionality and aesthetics. The dashboard shape has been inspired by the characteristic face of ŠKODA cars and incorporates support for the hand so that it is easier for the driver to control the free-standing central display. We have also come up with a brand new steering wheel design and, for the first time, we are offering a shift-by-wire system with automatic transmission. This has enabled us to give the centre console a whole new complexion, which has been reflected throughout the interior design.