Restyled Škoda Octavia A7 (2017–2020), known as FL version (facelift), received not only an updated exterior, but also major changes in the interior. The Czech manufacturer tried to correct the main complaints about the pre-facelift model, adding higher quality materials, a modern multimedia system and improved ergonomics. However, even after the update, the interior Octavia A7 FL remains the subject of controversy: some praise it for its practicality and reliability, others criticize it for its “budget” plastic and conservative design.
In this review we will look at the interior of the restyled Octavia A7 down to the smallest detail: from build quality to hidden “tricks” that are not written about in official booklets. You will find out what configuration you should choose for comfortable operation, what to look for when buying a used car, and how to independently improve the interior without major investments. Also, let’s compare the salon Octavia A7 FL with key competitors: Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus and Toyota Corolla.
Design and ergonomics: what has changed after facelift?
The main difference between the salon Octavia A7 FL from the pre-restayling version - new front panel with changed architecture. Designers Škoda abandoned the “multi-story” layout in favor of a flatter and more minimalistic console. The central multimedia screen is now “built-in” into the panel, rather than hanging over it, like its predecessor. This decision visually “lightened” the interior, but caused controversy among the owners: some like brevity, others lack the “premium quality”.
Ergonomics remains at a high level: all controls are located intuitively. Steering wheel with multifunction keys (heated in top versions) lies comfortably in the hands, and the gearshift lever and selector DSG have clear latches. However, there is a nuance: in basic configurations Ambition and Active The steering wheel is covered with leatherette, which over time “licks” and loses its presentable appearance. In versions Style and RS Genuine leather with stitching is used - this is a much more durable solution.
- ✅ Ergonomic advantages: convenient location of climate control buttons, good visibility of the instrument panel, height-adjustable steering column.
- ❌ Cons: Basic versions lack an armrest for the driver, and the multimedia control buttons on the steering wheel are too small.
- 🔍 Hidden trick: There is a hidden compartment for documents in the glove compartment - many owners find out about it only after a year of use.
- Front panel design
- Ergonomics of steering wheel and gearbox
- Quality of materials
- Multimedia system
- I don't like anything
Finishing materials: where did you save and where did you go overboard?
Škoda traditionally famous for practicality, but not luxury. Inside Octavia A7 FL This rule remains the same: the plastic is hard, but the assembly is at a high level. The upper part of the dashboard and door cards in top versions are covered with soft plastic with a leather-like texture, while in basic versions they are covered with smooth hard plastic that creaks in the cold. Exception - version Octavia RS, where real Alcantara is used on the ceiling and partly on the doors, which gives the interior a sporty character.
Seats in Octavia A7 FL depend on the configuration:
- Active/Ambition: fabric upholstery with simple stitching, weak lateral support.
- Style: combined covering (leather + Alcantara), improved lumbar support.
- RS: sports seats with bright stitching and enhanced lateral support (ideal for aggressive driving).
⚠️ Attention: In cars with mileage >80 thousand km, the driver's seat trim on the side often wears out - check this when purchasing!
| Equipment | Seat material | Panel Finish | Shumka |
|---|---|---|---|
Active |
Fabric | Hard plastic | Average |
Ambition |
Fabric + leatherette | Soft plastic (partially) | good |
Style |
Leather + Alcantara | Soft plastic + chrome | Excellent |
RS |
Leather/Alcantara (sports) | Soft plastic + carbon-like inserts | Premium |
Multimedia and electronics: from “naked” radio to virtual tidy
One of the key updates in Octavia A7 FL - new multimedia system. Basic versions were equipped Bolero (5-inch screen, no navigation), and the top ones - Columbus (8" touchscreen with 3D navigation and support Apple CarPlay/Android Auto). After 2019, an option appeared Virtual Cockpit - fully digital instrument panel, borrowed from Audi. It is only available in configurations Style and RS.
Typical electronics problems include:
- Freeze Columbus when connecting a smartphone (solved by rebooting).
- Weak signal Bluetooth in versions before 2018 (requires software update).
- The backlight of the climate control buttons dims over time (defect of diodes).
Does Apple CarPlay/Android Auto work without freezing|
Check all speakers for sound (the rear left one often fails)|
Make sure the screen has no dead pixels|
Bluetooth connection test (should work at a distance of >5m)-->
Interesting fact: in Octavia A7 FL there is a hidden function Hidden Menu, which allows you to activate additional climate control and lighting settings. To get into it, you need to hold down the button MENU on the steering wheel and turn on the ignition at the same time. Be careful — incorrect changes can reset the settings to factory settings!
Practicality and space: why is the Octavia A7 FL called a “family tank”?
Salon Octavia A7 FL - one of the most spacious in the class C-segment. The back row offers 980 mm legroom (more than Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus), and the trunk volume 610 liters (1740 liters with seats folded) allows you to transport even large loads. However, there are nuances:
- There is no “secret” compartment under the trunk floor (unlike Superb).
- Mounts ISOFIX located too close to the back of the seat - not all child seats are installed comfortably.
- The rear row armrest is absent in basic versions (appears only in Style).
Owners praise Octavia A7 FL for little things that make life easier:
- Umbrellas in the doors (in versions Style and RS).
- Cup holders with heating/cooling (optional).
- Keyless entry Keyless with a sensor in the rear bumper (you can open the trunk with your foot).
How to fold the rear seats to transport long items?
1. Pull the lever on the seatback (located on the side of the headrest).
2. The backrest will fold in a ratio of 60:40, forming a flat platform with a trunk.
3. To fully fold, pull the second lever under the seat (only on versions with the option Easy Fold).
⚠️ Carefully check that the seat belts are not pinched when folding!
Comparison with competitors: who is better?
Main rivals Octavia A7 FL on the secondary market - Volkswagen Golf MK7.5, Ford Focus 3 FL and Toyota Corolla E210. Let's compare their salons according to key criteria:
- 🚗 Volkswagen Golf MK7.5: more premium materials, but tighter rear quarters and a smaller trunk (380L). Multimedia Discover Pro better than Columbus, but more expensive to repair.
- 🚗 Ford Focus 3 FL: dynamic interior design, but cheap plastic and problems with electronics (SYNC 3 often glitches). The back row is even tighter than Golf.
- 🚗 Toyota Corolla E210: more reliable electronically, but boring interior and hard seats. Trunk - 361 l (half that of Octavia).
Octavia A7 FL wins in practicality and price, but loses in premiumness Golf and reliability Corolla. If you need spacious family car with minimal maintenance costs - a Czech sedan/liftback will be the best choice. If the status and quality of materials are more important, you should take a closer look at Golf or Audi A3.
Octavia A7 FL is the best choice for those who value space and practicality over premiumness. The main advantages: a huge trunk, a spacious rear row and low cost of ownership.
Typical problems in the Octavia A7 FL interior: what to look for?
Despite the reliability, Octavia A7 FL There are “childhood diseases” that dealers are silent about:
- Plastic creaks - especially in cold weather (solved by treating with silicone grease).
- Door trim peeling off in the places where the speakers are mounted (usually in cars with a powerful audio system Canton).
- Display burn-in multimedia (typical for versions 2017–2018, requires screen replacement for ~30 thousand rubles).
- Smell of plastic in new cars (passes after 2–3 months of operation).
The most expensive problem to repair is climate control unit malfunction (symptoms: heated seats do not work, temperature cannot be adjusted). Replacing a block costs 40–60 thousand rubles., but reflashing often helps (costs ~10 thousand rubles).
⚠️ Attention: When buying used Octavia A7 FL Be sure to check the operation of all climate control functions - this is the weak point of the model! Pay special attention to the heated windshield (it often fails due to oxidation of the contacts).
How to improve the interior of the Octavia A7 FL with your own hands?
If you are not satisfied with the materials or functionality of the interior, there are several budget ways to upgrade it:
- 🔧 Replacing the steering wheel to sports from Octavia RS (suitable without modifications, cost ~15 thousand rubles on the secondary market).
- 🎨 Covering the panel with carbon film (masks scratches and adds sportiness, price ~5 thousand rubles).
- 🔊 Installing a contactless charger into the compartment under climate control (requires an adapter for Qi, ~3 thousand rubles).
- 💡 LED foot lighting (kits for 1–2 thousand rubles, connected to standard wiring).
For those who are willing to spend more:
- Replacing media on Android Auto- head unit (for example, Pumpkin or Joying, from 25 thousand rubles).
- Installing a 360° camera (requires integration with Columbus, ~40 thousand rubles).
- Seat reupholstery in leather or Alcantara (from 50 thousand rubles, but looks like a factory option RS).
Before purchasing accessories, check their compatibility with your version Octavia A7 FL. For example, steering wheels from a pre-restyle model (before 2017) do not fit due to a different airbag connector!
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Octavia A7 FL interior
Is it possible to install Virtual Cockpit on the basic version of Octavia A7 FL?
Technically yes, but this will require replacing the dashboard, control unit and firmware ECU. The cost of work is from 80 thousand rubles, so it is cheaper to buy a car with an already installed option.
Which interior of the Octavia A7 FL is warmer: fabric or leather?
Paradoxically, the fabric upholstery (Active/Ambition) retains heat better in winter, as the skin cools quickly. However, in summer, the skin heats up less in the sun. The best option is combined cladding (Style).
How much does it cost to replace the plastic panel with a soft one (like in Style) in the basic version?
A complete replacement of the upper part of the dashboard will cost 30–50 thousand rubles. (depending on the workshop). An alternative is to cover existing plastic with a soft film (from 10 thousand rubles), but this is less durable.
Which audio system is better: standard or Canton?
System Canton (optional for Style/RS) sounds richer at low frequencies, but has problems with speakers (often “wheezing” at high volumes). The standard audio system is more reliable, but the bass is weak. Many owners install an additional subwoofer.
Is it possible to disable start-stop in Octavia A7 FL permanently?
Yes, there are two ways:
- Software (via diagnostic cable VCDS or OBDeleven).
- Hardware - by turning off the fuse (but this will reset other settings).
Official dealers refuse to disable the system, as this affects the environmental class.