Škoda will expand its lineup in the Chinese market with an extended wheelbase variant of its Octavia Pro compact sedan.
The Chinese Octavia Pro’s wheelbase is 44 mm longer than the European version. That might not seem like a lot, but compared to the third-gen Octavia that still sells on the Chinese market, the new Pro’s wheelbase is 78 mm longer.
The Octavia Pro looks similar to the European version and features the same front grille, headlights, and taillights. However, the front and the rear aprons draw inspiration from the Octavia RS with black rear-view mirrors, a black roof, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, the first thing you’ll notice is the multi-level instrument panel along with a central display. The Octavia Pro features the same 12.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch instrument cluster. Moreover, the infotainment comes with a permanent internet connection and has access to numerous mobile connectivity services.
Meanwhile, the instrument cluster can project information such as the current speed, detected road signs, navigation instructions, and driver assistance systems. The Octavia Pro also offers ventilated and heated front seats with electronic adjustment.
Furthermore, the Octavia Pro arrives with a long list of safety features. A unique Škoda system is the exit warning function that informs occupants of incoming vehicles or bicyclists when opening a door. It also boasts lane-keeping and a lane-changing assist, adaptive cruise control, and emergency stop function.
The Octavia Pro will be only available with a 1.4-liter TSI engine producing 150 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the power goes to the front wheels via a 7-speed DSG gearbox with a shift-by-wire technology. Notably, the transmission uses a small rocker switch on the central console to send the information electronically instead of mechanically.
The Octavia is Škoda’s best-performer in China, with more than 1.4 million units sold to date. China is Škoda’s single largest market, so the Czech automaker’s exclusive adjustments to the fourth-generation Octavia aren’t very surprising.
