Skoda Octavia 2013-2017 Ambition Plus 2.0 TDI AT

Octavia 2013-2017 Ambition Plus 2.0 TDI AT Review

Skoda Octavia is one of the stylish and successful sedans that is running on Indian roads today. This model lineup now includes a new variant, which is Skoda Octavia Style Plus 2.0 TDI AT. This vehicle looks quite stunning from outside with aspects like bi-xenon headlights and large radiator grille at front and 16 inch alloy wheels on the sides. In the rear end, it has bright LED tail lamps, windscreen defogger with timer, and an expressive boot lid. Meanwhile, its spacious cabin is packed with numerous interesting features, which are not only useful, but also enhances its appearance. There is an infotainment system with LCD TFT color display and an automatic air conditioner with dual climatronic display. Besides these, it also has a multi function display, reading lamps, 590 litres luggage compartment, cup holders and several storage spaces for added comfort. Moreover, the panoramic electric sunroof with bounce back system certainly remains its plus point. On the safety front, it includes engine immobilizer, emergency triangle, front seatbelt pretensioners, eight airbags and many others for providing enhanced protection to its occupants. It is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine that is based on a DOHC valve configuration and comes with a liquid cooling system. It displaces 1968cc and is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission gear box.

Exteriors:

With a striking body and arresting features, this sedan is sure to impress countless customers. In particular, its front facade needs a special mention. The visible character lines over its sleek bonnet and the popular company's logo on its tip looks quite attractive. The radiator grille catches all attention with its amazing design, while the thick chrome surround further adds to its elegance. The windscreen is pretty large and has automatic wiper system with rain sensor. The radiant headlight cluster has bi-xenon headlights with dynamic leveling, whereas the LED daytime running lights adds to its style. Then, there is a well sculpted bumper with a pair of fog lamps and a wide, perforated air intake section for cooling the drive train instantly. On the sides, the chrome window sill as well as B-pillars give it a trendy appeal. The external mirrors are painted in body color and integrated with side turn indicators. Also, it has neatly carved wheel arches fitted with a modish set of 16 inch, 'Minoris' alloy wheels. These rims are covered with tubeless radial tyres of size 205/55 R16 that offers an excellent grip on roads. Moving to its rear end, it features an impressive boot lid on which, the firm's logo as well as model's name is neatly engraved. This is flanked by the radiant LED tail lamps and turn indicators as well. The windscreen has defogger with timer, and there are also a couple of fog lamps fitted. Apart from these, it includes a body colored bumper and high mount stop lamp that completes its rear profile.

Interiors:

Its plush interiors are one of the finest things about this sedan, which gives a pleasant feel to its occupants. Being packed with several sophisticated aspects, its cabin is quite beautiful in a dual tone color scheme. The rich Onyx and Ivory colors on the dashboard grants a contemporary look to its cockpit. It comes fitted with a multifunctional steering wheel that is garnished with chrome and wrapped with fine leather. The center console is incorporated with an advanced music system and an air conditioner as well. Also, there are air vents and a glove box integrated to it of which, the latter is illuminated. On the other hand, its seats ensure maximum comfort as well as support with height adjustment and lumbar support facilities. Moreover, the headrests with height adjustable functions further adds to their convenience. Above all, the chrome accentuation on audio unit controls, door handles, gear shift indicator, instrument cluster dials and storage compartment lids on front console makes its interior look just amazing.

Engine and Performance:

Under the hood, this variant has a 2.0-litre, turbocharged diesel engine with liquid cooling system. It is a four cylinder motor that has 16 valves and is based on a double overhead camshaft valve configuration. The high pressure direct injection system is integrated and a six speed automatic transmission gear box is mated to it, which transmits engine power to its front wheels. This oil burner can belt out a peak power of 141bhp at 4000rpm in combination with torque output of 320Nm ranging between 1750 to 3000rpm. Also, it can return a mileage of about 19.3 Kmpl on the highways and nearly 15 Kmpl within the city. This can attain a top speed of around 216 Kmph and can break the speed limit of 100 Kmph in 9.35 seconds.

Braking and Handling:

It comes with a hydraulic dual diagonal circuit, vacuum assisted braking with a dual rate system. This comprises of a robust set of disc brakes for all its wheels. It gets a direct rack and pinion based electromechanic power steering column that is height and length adjustable. It even supports a turning radius of 10.4 meters besides ensuring easy maneuverability. A McPherson strut accompanied with lower triangular link and torsion stabilizer is assembled on the front axle, and the rear one gets a compound link crank axle.

Comfort Features:

It is available with a number of comfort based aspects that makes the journey quite comfortable for its passengers. Some of these include a 12-way electrically adjustable driver's seat, front and rear center armrests, split foldable rear seat, climatronic automatic air conditioner with adjustable rear air vents, electrically adjustable external mirrors, and a 12V power socket in center console. For its entertainment sectiom, it has an audio unit with 5.8 inch LCD TFT color display screen. It comes with SmartLink mobile phone connectivity, MEDIA-IN input for USB and Aux-In as well as eight speakers. In addition to all these, it also includes rear view camera, keyless entry, engine-start stop, panoramic electric sun roof with bounce back system, cruise control, illuminated luggage compartment, front sunvisors with vanity mirrors and many more.

Safety Features:

The list of security aspects include ABS with EBD and HBA, electronic differential lock, anti slip and motor speed regulation, electronic stability control, and tyre pressure monitoring. Other than these, it also comprise of eight airbags, three point seat belts with pretensioners at front, child proof rear window and door locking, engine immobilizer, parktronic sensors and several other features that gives high level of protection.

Pros:

1. Outstanding interior space and comfortable seating arrangement.

2. Ample boot space is offered.

Cons:

1. Low ground clearance is a disadvantage.

2. Cost of maintenance is high.