2017 Skoda Octavia revealed

Skoda has given its Octavia sedan and estate variants a nip and tuck at each end, the most noticeable features being the a more streamlined bonnet, full-length lower grille and a strip of bodywork separating each LED headlamp – which will divide in more ways than one.

Other aesthetic changes include redesigned tail-lights and range of newly drawn 16i-, 17- and 18-inch wheels.

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The update also brings three new infotainment systems: Bolero, Amundsen and range-topping Columbus, which, along with the currently available Swing system, all have a 9.2-inch glass touchscreen that’s more responsive to lighter touches.

The Columbus features a WLAN hotspot and, if desired, and SIM card module with LTE speed for an ultra-fast connection to the Internet.

Each system is linked through Skoda Connect with optional breakdown and emergency assistance.

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Updated driver assistance technology options include radar blind spot detection and rear traffic alert, predictive pedestrian protection and trailer assistant, which will automatically steer when you’re slowly reversing making you look like a trailer-reversing god.

Other features include a key that will allow multiple drivers to save their own vehicle preferences, bottle holders designed to make opening bottles easier, and a removable torch in the boot of the Skoda Octavia estate.

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The engine line-up consists of 1.0-litre and 1.4-litre TSI petrols, and 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre TDI diesels, with the bigger versions of each most likely to again to be selected for the Australian range.

The 2017 Octavia range isn’t due for Australian release until mid-next year, however some of the new tech is expected make its way into the Skoda Octavia RS 4x4, which launches here next month.

Australian range specifications and prices for the 2017 Octavia range will be revealed closer to launch.

Click here to read the full review on the current model Skoda Octavia and Octavia RS.