Produced or assembled in altogether eight countries, the Octavia is Škoda’s bestseller. The rejuvenated version is now coming with a more emotionally powerful design. “The Octavia has always had a special position among Škoda vehicles. It is our most successful model, very popular worldwide. Now it has gone through a complete transformation that is apparent in the new interior and exterior, as well as the applied technology,” said Dr. Eckhard Scholz, BOD Member responsible for technological development.

When looking from the front, the key enhancements include newly shaped, bolder headlamps, a more robust radiator grille and a one-piece bumper. The innovation of the rear part of the vehicle is mainly about new tail lamp covers and a dynamic bumper with integrated cat eyes.

The interior offers an innovated line of Škoda audio and navigation systems. The steering wheel, the dashboard (white-backlit), the air conditioning controls and the decorative strips on the doors and the central console have been redesigned. In addition, new upholstery fabrics are available across all equipment levels (Classic, Ambiente and Elegance).

New adaptive xenon headlamps enhance the vehicle’s active safety, passive safety has been improved by installing front WOKS headrests for effective rear impact protection (in all equipment levels).

Innovative changes are to be found also under the bonnet – Škoda is coming with a brand new 1.4 TSI 122bhp engine. Turbocharged 1.4 and 1.8 litre petrol engines can be combined with a seven-speed twin-clutch automatic DSG transmission.

Besides modernised Octavia, Octavia estate and Octavia estate 4×4 vehicles, the Company is going to present the entire portfolio of Škoda cars in its stand, including e.g., a black Fabia SportLine with an exclusive grey roof, the Roomster Cycling and, of course, Škoda’s flagship – the new Superb. GreenLine, the Company’s environmentally friendly portfolio, is going to be represented by several versions of the Fabia and Superb. Those who prefer a dynamic lifestyle will surely appreciate the Scout version of the Roomster and the Octavia.

But as the pictures in this week’s mag – taken with a long lens – show, that’s clearly not the case. And while the show car’s glass roof panels and one-piece tailgate won’t make production, fans of the original design won’t be disappointed.

The tall proportions of the practical little car have been retained, as have the distinctively shaped front side windows. The high-set rear light clusters of the road car are also familiar. The concept had only one sliding rear door, but practicality will be boosted on the production version, with a door on each side. The large rear side windows also help to give the new model a striking profile, and should ensure the spacious cabin has an airy feel.

Prices have yet to be announced, but the Roomster will compete head-on with the likes of the Renault Modus. A Skoda spokeswoman said: “We always offer an extra bit of car for the money.”

The production Roomster is set to debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, and it should arrive in showrooms in the UK by September.