Skoda has announced that ordering for the new Octavia range has opened. Prices for diesel models start at £20,395.

The 2017 Octavia is distinguished by a new front and rear design that incorporates the latest evolution of the company’s design language. Featuring a new quad light layout, the revised front end incorporates full LED headlight technology for the first time (standard on SE L, Laurin & Klement, Scout and vRS models), along with the same crystalline detailing that appears on the new Kodiaq.

The UK range features six engines, two body styles (Hatch and Estate) and seven familiar trim levels – including Scout and vRS. The range structure remains familiar with S, SE, SE Technology, SE L and Laurin & Klement. Order books for Scout and vRS models will open later.

The new model also introduces a host of new technologies. These include fully updated infotainment systems featuring capacitive all-glass displays measuring up to 9.2 inches. The range-topping Columbus system (standard on Laurin & Klement, optional on other models) also integrates a WLAN hotspot (for connection to a smartphone) and the option of a SIM module to allow the car to be independently connected to the Internet.

The interior also features a host of new Skoda’s Simply Clever features, including a heated steering wheel (standard on Laurin & Klement, optional on other models), ambient lighting with 10 colour choices (standard on Laurin & Klement and vRS, optional on other models) and a customisable key that allows multiple users to save their own vehicle settings.

Where connectivity is concerned, Skoda Connect is comprised of two categories: Infotainment Online services that provide additional information such as weather reports and parking space availability, along with real-time navigation details. Care Connect provides remote access as well as assistance. A year’s subscription to Infotainment online is included as standard on SE Technology, SE L and Laurin & Klement models and available as an option on models equipped with Amundsen and Columbus infotainment systems.

Safety and assistance systems have also been boosted as part of the model update. Trailer assist is able to control the steering when the vehicle is slowly reversing while predictive pedestrian protection has been added to the Front assist system. Park assist has also been improved thanks to the addition of a new rear radar and rear view camera that introduces Blind Spot Detection and Rear Traffic Alert to the Octavia’s armoury.

Skoda says the new Octavia range features significantly more technology and equipment than the outgoing model. All feature alloy wheels, touchscreen infotainment systems, SmartLink+ ensuring that Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM connectivity is now standard across the model range, LED rear lights, air conditioning, XDS electronic differential lock and automatic post-collision braking system.

SE models add, among other items, cruise control, three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, Driving mode selection, acoustic rear parking sensors and driver fatigue sensor. Dual-zone air conditioning, driver personalisation (including three keys), front fog lights and chrome finished door handles are also included as standard.

SE Technology models feature even more equipment, including adaptive cruise control, Amundsen 8-inch touchscreen navigation system, Wi-fi hotspot, and front and rear parking sensors, while SE L models add Alctantara and leather upholstery, full LED headlights, front assist, intelligent light assist and an umbrella under the passenger seat. SE L models are also equipped with sunset glass from the B-pillar back, front grille finished in gloss black and a colour maxi-dot trip computer as standard.

Laurin & Klement models deliver the most advanced technology ever seen on an Octavia thanks to a standard equipment list that includes heated front seats, heated steering wheel, 9.2-inch Columbus infotainment system, CANTON sound system and an electrically adjustable driver’s seat with memory function and lumbar support. KESSY, Park assist and Lane assist are also included as standard.

Scout models have 4×4 ability and feature Alcantara and leather Scout upholstery, Amundsen eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, full LED headlamps Scout body styling details and off-road mode. Scout models also come equipped with a rough road package that delivers increased protection for the underside the vehicle along with Lane assist, heated front seats and heated multifunctional steering wheel.

vRS models also enjoy an improvement in equipment levels. Highlights for the new vRS models include sport seats and upholstery, full LED headlights, Performance mode selection and a super sport 3-spoke leather multifunction steering wheel with vRS logo and paddles for DSG models.

To date, more than five million Octavias have been produced, with sales in more than 100 markets worldwide.