Skoda Talks 2017 Octavia’s Interior, We Still Can’t Get Over the Facelift

The Octavia remains a fantastic all-rounder, but why did they have to ruin the front end?

When Skoda released the first photos with its facelifted Octavia last month, all people talked about was the model's awkward-looking face.

The split headlights were the main topic of discussion, and not for the right reasons. Still, since the design is the most subjective part of a car, I'll leave that to rest and let you decide if you like it or not.

So, what's new about the refreshed Octavia's interior? Skoda says it has improved practicality, thanks to new "Simply Clever" features for the luggage compartment such as the variable loading floor (from Ambition trim up), the multi-function shelf, and the luggage net partition. Four bag hooks come as standard on all models while the Combi variant gets a removable LED flashlight as standard and a power tailgate as an option.

"Simply Clever" features for the passenger area include bottle holders in the center tunnel that allow passengers to open them with one hand, as well as available folding tables attached to the front seats' backrests. 230 volt and USB ports can be fitted in the rear compartment if needed.

When it comes to comfort, the facelifted Skoda Octavia brings two major additions: a heated steering wheel rim and three customizable keys. When the driver unlocks the vehicle, his or her personal settings are activated. These cover the driving profile selection, assistance systems, indoor and outdoor lighting, Climatronic, infotainment systems and electrically adjustable seats.

The four new generation infotainment systems (Swing, Bolero, Amundsen, and Columbus) should cater to all tastes, with the range-topping system featuring a 9.2-inch touchscreen display and integrated Wi-Fi hotspot. Skoda also offers the Phonebox feature that can charge a smartphone wirelessly and connect it to the roof antenna.

As far as interior design goes, the refreshed Octavia brings a new black/brown combination for the Ambition trim level as well as ambient lighting for Style and Laurin & Klement grades.