- After launching mild- and plug-in hybrids, Skoda has introduced a full hybrid.
- The Octavia will offer two different hybrid powertrains with up to 168 hp.
- Model has a 1.6 kWh battery, which allows for up to 1.2 miles of electric-only range.
Skoda currently sells five electric vehicles and three plug-in hybrids, but it has never offered what it refers to as a “full hybrid.” Until now.
Based on the Octavia, the model is equipped with a series-parallel hybrid system that consists of a 1.5-liter engine, two electric motors, and a single-speed automatic transmission. The smaller of the two motors acts as a generator, but also works as a starter for the engine. The larger motor, on the other hand, drives the front wheels and recuperates energy during braking.
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The powertrain automatically switches between three different modes as needed. At low speeds, the hybrid can be driven roughly 1.2 miles (2 km) on electricity alone. At speeds up to around 37 mph (60 km/h), the model enter series hybrid mode. Here, the “combustion engine powers a generator, which generates electricity for the traction motor driving the wheels.”
At speeds above 37 mph (60 km/h), the car operates in parallel hybrid mode and relies on the 1.5-liter engine to power the wheels. However, the electric motor can also provide “additional support.”
Two different versions of the powertrain will be available with versions of the 1.5-liter TSI gasoline engine rated at either 129 hp (96 kW / 131 PS) or 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS). This means that in base form, the Skoda Octavia hybrid will have a combined system output of 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS), while the optional configuration will give the car a total output of 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS).
While the engines are slightly different, the models share a 1.6 kWh battery pack and identical electric motors. Skoda didn’t mention fuel economy, but noted both variants will have an electronically limited top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h).
The hybrid powertrains will be offered on the Octavia Hatchback and Estate in Selection and Sportline trims. Compared to their conventionally powered counterparts, these models will come with additional standard equipment including a 10-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13-inch infotainment system. They’ll also have unique “Hybrid” badging on the liftgate.
Orders open this month and the first deliveries are scheduled for December. There’s no word on pricing, but the mild-hybrid Octavia Selection begins at 689,900 Kč ($31,660) in the Czech Republic.
