Skoda Octavia III (facelift ) 1.6 MPI (110 Hp)

Skoda Octavia III (facelift 2017) 1.6 MPI (110 Hp)

The Skoda Octavia III, in its post-facelift iteration from 2017, represents a pivotal model in the Czech automaker’s lineup, embodying its “Simply Clever” philosophy with a strong emphasis on practicality, value, and robust engineering. Specifically, the Skoda Octavia III (facelift 2017) 1.6 MPI (110 Hp) variant, produced between 2018 and 2019, served as a key entry-level gasoline option in numerous European and international markets. This third-generation Octavia, built on the Volkswagen Group’s versatile MQB platform, positioned itself as a compelling choice in the highly competitive compact family car (C-segment) category, offering space typically associated with larger vehicles at an accessible price point.

While the Skoda brand does not have a presence in the United States automotive market, the Octavia’s success across Europe, Asia, and other regions highlights its significance. It is widely recognized for its blend of sedan-like aesthetics with the practical versatility of a hatchback, a characteristic that has endeared it to families and fleet buyers alike. The 2017 facelift brought a series of aesthetic and technological enhancements, ensuring the Octavia remained fresh and competitive against rivals from established brands.

Engine and Performance of the Skoda Octavia III (facelift 2017) 1.6 MPI (110 Hp)

At the heart of this particular Octavia variant is a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter (1598 cm³ or 97.52 cu. in.) Multi-Point Injection (MPI) gasoline engine, identified by the engine code CWVA. This inline four-cylinder unit, featuring four valves per cylinder, was engineered for reliability and fuel efficiency, serving as a workhorse engine in various Volkswagen Group applications. It delivers a respectable 110 horsepower at 5800 rpm, which translates to a power-per-liter output of 68.8 Hp/l – a solid figure for a non-turbocharged engine of its displacement.

Torque output for the Skoda Octavia III (facelift 2017) 1.6 MPI (110 Hp) stands at 114.32 lb.-ft. (155 Nm), available across a useful rev range of 3800-4000 rpm. This broad torque band contributes to manageable daily driving, particularly in urban environments and at cruising speeds. The engine is positioned front, transversely, and powers the front wheels through a 5-speed manual transmission, a common and cost-effective setup for vehicles in this class. While not designed for outright speed, the Octavia 1.6 MPI offers adequate performance for its intended purpose. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 10.2 seconds, with a top speed of 121.17 mph (195 km/h). This performance profile underscores its role as a practical, economical family car rather than a performance-oriented machine.

The vehicle’s powertrain architecture, with its internal combustion engine driving the front wheels, is a tried-and-true configuration that balances manufacturing efficiency with predictable handling characteristics. The inclusion of a particulate filter indicates Skoda’s commitment to meeting evolving emissions standards, a crucial consideration in the European market during its production years.

Design and Features

The Skoda Octavia III (facelift 2017) retains its distinctive 5-door hatchback body type, a design choice that cleverly masks its capacious cargo area while presenting a sleek, almost sedan-like profile. The facelift introduced several key design updates, most notably a redesigned front fascia featuring split headlights, a wider grille, and revised bumper styling, giving the car a more assertive and modern appearance. Despite these changes, the Octavia maintained its characteristic understated elegance and functional aesthetic.

Measuring 183.86 inches in length, 71.42 inches in width (79.41 inches including mirrors), and 57.52 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 105.75 inches, the Octavia offers substantial interior volume. This translates to comfortable seating for five adults and one of the largest trunks in its class. The minimum trunk space is an impressive 20.84 cu. ft. (590 liters), which expands to a cavernous 55.8 cu. ft. (1580 liters) with the rear seats folded down. This outstanding cargo capacity is a hallmark of the Octavia and a significant selling point in its primary markets.

Standard features for the 2018-2019 model year included essential safety and convenience technologies. The vehicle is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced stopping control, and features ventilated discs at the front and disc brakes at the rear. Steering is managed by an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, providing light and precise control. The car rides on 16-inch wheel rims fitted with 205/55 R16 tires, offering a comfortable balance between grip and ride quality. The ground clearance of 5.55 inches (141 mm) is typical for a passenger car, while its minimum turning circle of 34.78 feet (10.6 m) aids maneuverability in urban settings.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact

The Skoda Octavia, and specifically the third generation (5E) including its 2017 facelift, cemented its reputation as the cornerstone of the Skoda brand. Its market impact was profound, particularly in Europe, where it consistently ranked among the best-selling C-segment vehicles. The Skoda Octavia III (facelift 2017) 1.6 MPI (110 Hp) played a crucial role in this success as an accessible and economical option, appealing to a wide demographic from private buyers seeking a family hauler to businesses requiring reliable and cost-effective fleet vehicles.

The Octavia’s success is rooted in its ability to offer Volkswagen Group engineering and reliability at a more competitive price point than its VW Golf stablemate, while simultaneously providing superior interior and cargo space. This value proposition made it a formidable competitor against other mainstream compact cars like the Ford Focus, Opel Astra, Renault Megane, Hyundai i30, and Kia Ceed. Its “Simply Clever” features, such as the ice scraper in the fuel flap, umbrella under the passenger seat, and various storage solutions, further enhanced its appeal by demonstrating a thoughtful approach to user convenience.

The Octavia’s legacy is one of consistent growth and evolution for the Skoda brand. Under Volkswagen Group ownership, Skoda transitioned from a manufacturer of utilitarian vehicles to a producer of highly competitive, well-engineered, and aesthetically pleasing cars. The Octavia has been at the forefront of this transformation, showcasing how a brand can leverage shared platforms and technology to deliver distinctive products tailored to specific market needs. While the 1.6 MPI engine variant might not have been the most powerful or technologically advanced, it embodied the Octavia’s core strengths: dependable performance, remarkable practicality, and excellent value for money. Its discontinuation in 2019 made way for more advanced, often turbocharged, engine options in the lead-up to the fourth-generation Octavia, reflecting the broader industry trend towards smaller, more efficient forced-induction powertrains.

The Octavia’s absence from the North American market is primarily due to Skoda’s strategic focus on Europe and emerging markets, coupled with the differing brand perceptions and market demands in the U.S., which tend to favor SUVs and larger sedans. Nevertheless, the Octavia remains a global success story, and the 1.6 MPI variant is a testament to its enduring appeal as a practical, no-nonsense family car.