The Skoda Octavia III Combi (facelift 2017) 1.4 TSI (150 Hp): A European Workhorse of Practicality and Efficiency
The Skoda Octavia, a cornerstone of the Czech automaker’s lineup, has long been revered in Europe for its exceptional blend of practicality, value, and robust engineering. The third generation, known internally as the A7, received a significant facelift in 2017, further solidifying its position as a dominant force in the compact family car segment. This article focuses on a particularly compelling variant: the Skoda Octavia III Combi (facelift 2017) 1.4 TSI (150 Hp). While never officially sold in the United States, this model embodies the “Simply Clever” philosophy of Skoda, offering impressive cargo capacity in its Combi (station wagon) body style, coupled with a highly efficient and capable turbocharged gasoline engine. Produced from 2017 to 2018, this iteration of the Octavia Combi represented a refined evolution, integrating updated styling cues and enhanced technology to maintain its competitive edge in its primary European markets.
Engineering and Performance: The 1.4 TSI Powertrain in the Skoda Octavia III Combi (facelift 2017)
At the heart of the Skoda Octavia III Combi (facelift 2017) is the venerable 1.4-liter TSI (Turbocharged Stratified Injection) engine, a testament to Volkswagen Group’s commitment to downsizing without compromising performance. This four-cylinder, inline gasoline engine, identified by codes like CHPB or CZDA, boasts a displacement of 1395 cm³ (85.13 cu. in.). It generates a healthy 150 horsepower, delivering a power output of 107.5 HP per liter, a remarkable figure for a family-oriented vehicle. More critically for everyday driving, the engine produces a substantial 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque, available across a broad and accessible rev range from 1500 to 3500 rpm. This wide torque band ensures responsive acceleration and effortless cruising, even when the vehicle is fully loaded.
The technical sophistication of this powertrain is evident in its design. Featuring direct fuel injection, a turbocharger, and an intercooler, the engine optimizes combustion efficiency and maximizes power delivery while minimizing fuel consumption. The 10:1 compression ratio further aids in this balance. Mated to a precise 6-speed manual transmission, the 1.4 TSI engine drives the front wheels, a common and effective drivetrain architecture for this segment. This combination allows the Octavia Combi to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in a respectable 8.2 seconds, with a slightly quicker 0-60 mph sprint estimated at 7.8 seconds. Its top speed reaches 134.22 mph (216 km/h), making it perfectly capable of handling European highway speeds with ease.
Efficiency was a key consideration for Skoda, and the 1.4 TSI engine delivers admirably. The combined fuel economy is rated at 5.3 liters per 100 km, translating to an impressive 44.4 US mpg. Even in urban driving, the Octavia achieves 34.6 US mpg, while extra-urban cruising can yield up to 52.3 US mpg. With CO2 emissions of 124 g/km, the vehicle meets the stringent Euro 6 emission standard, reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility. The engine’s oil capacity is 4 liters (4.23 US qt), and the cooling system holds 10.4 liters (10.99 US qt).
Design and Features: Practicality Meets Refinement
The Skoda Octavia III Combi (facelift 2017) is defined by its station wagon (estate) body type, a configuration highly prized in Europe for its versatility and load-carrying capability. Measuring 183.74 inches (4667 mm) in length, 71.42 inches (1814 mm) in width, and 57.68 inches (1465 mm) in height, the Octavia Combi strikes a balanced profile that is both elegant and functional. The 105.75-inch (2686 mm) wheelbase provides a spacious cabin for five occupants across its five doors.
The 2017 facelift brought subtle yet impactful aesthetic changes. The most noticeable update was the revised front fascia, featuring distinctive split headlights that gave the Octavia a more modern and assertive look. The grille, bumpers, and taillights also received minor tweaks, refining the car’s overall appearance. Inside, Skoda maintained its reputation for ergonomic design and high-quality materials. While specific interior features aren’t detailed in the raw data, as a modern vehicle from 2017, it would have included an advanced infotainment system, multiple connectivity options, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies.
Where the Combi truly shines is in its cargo capacity. With the rear seats in place, the trunk offers a cavernous 610 liters (21.54 cu. ft.) of space. Folding the rear seats expands this to an immense 1740 liters (61.45 cu. ft.), making it exceptionally practical for families, adventurers, or anyone needing to transport large items. This generous volume is complemented by a maximum payload of 1421.98 lbs (645 kg) and a substantial maximum trailer load with brakes of 3306.93 lbs (1500 kg), underscoring its utility.
Safety and driving dynamics are also well-addressed. The vehicle features ventilated disc brakes at the front and disc brakes at the rear, supported by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Electric power steering, a rack and pinion system, ensures precise and effortless maneuverability, with a minimum turning circle of 34.81 ft (10.61 m). The Octavia rides on 205/55 R16 tires with 16-inch wheel rims, providing a comfortable and stable ride characteristic of its segment.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Octavia |
| Generation | Octavia III Combi (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) |
| Production Start/End | 2017 – 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats / Doors | 5 / 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel Consumption (Urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Extra Urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 124 g/km |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec (Calculated) |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph (0-100 km/h) | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 216 km/h (134.22 mph) |
| Power | 150 Hp |
| Power per liter | 107.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CHPB, CZDA |
| Engine displacement | 1395 cm³ (85.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4, Inline |
| Cylinder Bore / Piston Stroke | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) / 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.4 l (10.99 US qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1202 kg (2649.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1847 kg (4071.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 645 kg (1421.98 lbs.) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp (124.8 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm (208 Nm/tonne) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 610 l (21.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1740 l (61.45 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Length | 4667 mm (183.74 in.) |
| Width | 1814 mm (71.42 in.) |
| Height | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2686 mm (105.75 in.) |
| Front track | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1534 mm (60.39 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.61 m (34.81 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front-wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion, Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 inches |
Legacy and Market Impact in Europe
The Skoda Octavia has been a phenomenal success story for the Czech brand, particularly within the competitive European market. The third-generation Combi, especially with the 2017 facelift and the efficient 1.4 TSI engine, further cemented its reputation as a smart choice for families and fleet buyers alike. Within its segment, the Octavia Combi directly competed with formidable rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf Variant (its platform sibling), Ford Focus Estate, Opel Astra Sports Tourer, and Peugeot 308 SW. What set the Octavia apart was its ability to offer near-mid-size space at a compact-segment price point, combined with Volkswagen Group’s proven engineering and a robust, no-nonsense approach to design.
The “Simply Clever” ethos of Skoda is perfectly embodied by the Octavia Combi. This philosophy translates into thoughtful features and practical solutions that enhance the user experience, such as ample storage compartments, robust build quality, and user-friendly controls. Its impressive cargo volume, durable interior, and competitive pricing made it an attractive proposition for those prioritizing utility and long-term reliability. The 1.4 TSI engine, in particular, offered a compelling balance of performance and fuel efficiency, resonating with European consumers who face higher fuel costs and stricter emission regulations than in the US.
Although the Skoda Octavia has never graced American showrooms, its impact on the global automotive landscape, particularly in Europe and parts of Asia, is undeniable. It represents a brand that has successfully transformed from an Eastern European niche player into a respected mainstream competitor under the stewardship of the Volkswagen Group. The Skoda Octavia III Combi (facelift 2017) 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) stands as a prime example of a modern, well-engineered vehicle that perfectly catered to the needs of its target market, offering a compelling package of space, efficiency, and driving competence that continues to influence Skoda’s product strategy today.
