Latest-generation Skoda Octavia arrives in China

Skoda is picking up the pace in China as it continues with its aggressive model campaign which mainly focuses on expanding locally produced models. The brand, which already produces the Rapid, the Fabia and the Superb in China, has revealed that it is set to double the range to six locally produced models. It will do so by introducing the Rapid Spaceback, a new version of the Yeti and the all-important Octavia.       

The Czech carmaker has unveiled the new Octavia at the ongoing Beijing Auto Show, ahead of the car's launch which is scheduled for May 2014. Now, unlike the Indian market where the brand is selling this new model in either petrol or diesel guise, the China-spec Octavia will be available only with petrol power. The car, in fact, will come with either a 1.4-litre TSI turbo engine or a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated unit. Skoda will soon start making the new Octavia in China under the Shanghai-Volkswagen JV.

Since the launch of the previous gen Octavia in 2007, Skoda says it has sold over 6.9 lakh units in China of which around 1.19 units were sold in 2013 alone. The brand even goes on to say that the Octavia is the base of their success in the Chinese market.

For more details on the Skoda Octavia, read our full review of the car by clicking here.