Facelift Skoda Octavia The third generation has become one of the most anticipated events for fans of the Czech brand. Updated version presented in 2017, received not only cosmetic changes, but also serious technical improvements. For many car enthusiasts, this facelift became a reason to reconsider their attitude towards the model, which was already famous for its reliability and practicality.
In this article we will look at what exactly external and internal changes suffered Octavia 3 after facelift, we will compare it with the pre-reform version and give recommendations on choosing the configuration. We will place special emphasis on technical nuances, which are often overlooked when buying a used car. If you are faced with a choice between restyled and pre-reform Octavia, this material will help you make an informed decision.
External changes: what's new in the design?
The most noticeable difference between the restyled Skoda Octavia 3 - this is front part of the body. The designers completely redesigned the optics: the headlights became more angular, and appeared in top trim levels Full LED blocks with adaptive light, which were previously only available in Superb. The radiator grille now has chrome vertical stripes, which gives the car a more premium look.
The rear has also undergone changes: the bumper has a new shape, and the lights have become thinner and more technologically advanced. In complete sets Style and L&K appeared LED rear lights with dynamic turn signals - an option that was previously only available in more expensive models Volkswagen Group. The rims have been updated: now even the basic version comes with 16" alloy wheels instead of steel.
- πΉ New optics with LED technology (in top versions)
- πΉ Chrome radiator grille with vertical stripes
- πΉ Redesigned rear bumper and LED lights
- πΉ Updated wheels (from 16 to 19 inches)
Interestingly, the side part of the body remained virtually unchanged - this was done to preserve the recognizable silhouette of the model. However, the designers added new body colors, such as Energy Blue and Magnetic Brown, which have not previously been proposed for Octavia.
- New headlights
- Chrome grille
- LED rear lights
- Wheels
Interior: comfort and technology
Inside Skoda Octavia 3 after facelift, the changes turned out to be even more significant. The main innovation is digital dashboard Virtual Cockpit, which previously could only be found in Audi and Volkswagen. It is now available in configurations Style and L&K and offers three information display modes: classic, advanced and sports.
The multimedia system has also been updated: instead of the outdated version Bolshoi a new one has appeared Amundsen or Columbus (depending on configuration) with diagonal touch screen 8 or 9.2 inches. The system now supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto even in basic versions, and also received voice control and updated navigation.
- π± Digital dashboard Virtual Cockpit (optional)
- ποΈ New touchscreen infotainment system
- π Support
Apple CarPlayandAndroid Autoin the database - πͺ Updated finishing materials (including leather steering wheel)
Finishing materials have become better quality: even in medium trim levels there is soft plastic panel on the dashboard, and in the top ones - Alcantara and genuine leather. The steering wheel can now be equipped with heated and perforation, which was previously only available in Superb.
If you choose Octavia 3 with mileage, be sure to check the functionality of the touch screen - in early restyled versions there were cases of the system freezing due to unstable software.
Technical characteristics: engines and transmissions
Under the hood Skoda Octavia 3 after facelift, the changes affected mainly gasoline engines. The most popular version is 1.4 TSI (150 hp) - received the system ACT (Active Cylinder Technology), which switches off two cylinders at low load, reducing fuel consumption. There's also a new one 2.0 TSI (190 hp) with an improved turbine, which was previously offered only for Octavia RS.
Diesel engines remained virtually unchanged, with the exception of 2.0 TDI (150 hp), which received an updated injection system Common Rail for better efficiency. Gearboxes have also undergone changes: 6-speed manual became more βshort-strokeβ, and 7-speed DSG robot received new software for smooth switching.
| Engine | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) | Consumption (city/highway) | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 TSI | 115 | 200 | 6.2 / 4.5 | 6 manual transmission / 7DSG |
| 1.4 TSI (ACT) | 150 | 250 | 6.8 / 4.7 | 6 manual transmission / 7DSG |
| 2.0 TSI | 190 | 320 | 8.1 / 5.2 | 6DSG |
| 1.6 TDI | 115 | 250 | 4.8 / 3.6 | 6 manual transmission / 7DSG |
| 2.0 TDI | 150 | 340 | 5.2 / 3.9 | 6 manual transmission / 6DSG |
Particular attention should be paid suspension: in the restyled version it became a little stiffer, which improved handling, but reduced comfort on bad roads. In versions with engines 1.4 TSI (150 hp) and 2.0 TDI there is an option Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), which allows you to select the suspension operating mode.
The 1.4 TSI engine with ACT may cause vibrations when the cylinders are deactivated - this is normal operation of the system and not a malfunction.
Comparison with the pre-reform version: which is better?
The main advantage of the restyled Octavia 3 before the pre-reform version - this is modern technologies. A digital dashboard, improved multimedia and LED optics make the car more attractive to those who value comfort and safety. However, there are also disadvantages: for example, price for spare parts for the restyled version above, especially for systems Virtual Cockpit and LED matrix headlights.
In terms of reliability, pre-reform Octavia 3 (2013β2016) is considered more βtestedβ: most childhood diseases of engines and gearboxes had been eliminated by that time. The restyled version, despite the improvements, has its weaknesses:
- π Battery problems due to increased power consumption of new systems
- π₯οΈ Freezes of the multimedia system in early restyled versions
- π§ More expensive maintenance due to complex electronics
If you are looking budget option with good maintainability, pre-reform Octavia 3 may be more profitable. But if it's important to you modern options and comfort, the restyled version is definitely preferable.
Which Octavia 3 facelift engines are the most reliable?
According to reviews from owners and mechanics, the most reliable are the diesel 1.6 TDI and 2.0 TDI, as well as the gasoline 1.4 TSI (150 hp) with a manual transmission. The 1.0 TSI engine is often criticized for its lack of dynamics, while the 2.0 TSI (190 hp) requires more careful attention to the oil and turbine.
Options and prices on the secondary market
On the secondary market, restyled Skoda Octavia 3 presented in three main configurations: Active, Ambition and Style. The most affordable version Active usually equipped 1.0 TSI (115 hp) or 1.6 TDI, LED daytime running lights and basic multimedia. Equipment Ambition adds climate control, heated front seats and touch screen.
Top version Style includes:
- π Full LED headlights and taillights
- π Digital dashboard Virtual Cockpit
- πͺ Leather trim on seats and steering wheel
- π system Keyless Entry (keyless entry)
Cost of used Octavia 3 facelift for 2026 varies depending on mileage and configuration:
- π°
Active(2017β2019) - from 1.2 to 1.6 million rubles. - π°
Ambition(2018β2020) - from 1.5 to 2.0 million rubles. - π°
StyleorL&K(2019β2021) - from 1.8 to 2.5 million rubles.
β οΈ Attention: When purchasing a restyled Octavia 3 With mileage, be sure to check the service history. The 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TSI engines are sensitive to oil quality, and DSG gearboxes require regular replacement of transmission fluid (every 60 thousand km).
Typical problems and weaknesses
Despite the improvements, the restyled Skoda Octavia 3 has several typical problemsThings to know before purchasing:
- Electronics: Frequent malfunctions of the multimedia system, especially in versions with a 9.2-inch screen. Sometimes flashing helps, but in some cases the unit needs to be replaced.
- Suspension: Knocks in the front suspension (usually the stabilizer struts or support bearings are to blame). In versions with DCC Electronically controlled shock absorbers may fail.
- Engines:
- π₯ 1.4 TSI (ACT): Problems with the cylinder deactivation system (may require a software update).
- π’οΈ 2.0 TDI: Sensitivity to fuel quality (risk of particulate filter clogging).
Another common problem is corrosion on rear arches and sills, especially in vehicles operated in regions with abundant use of reagents. Before purchasing, be sure to inspect these areas with thickness gauge.
Errors in the system through diagnostics (especially for the engine and gearbox)|Suspension condition (struts, silent blocks)|Operation of multimedia and Virtual Cockpit|Thickness of paintwork on sills and arches|Date for oil change in DSG (if any)-->
Tips for operation and tuning
If you have already become the owner of a restyled Skoda Octavia 3, here are some recommendations for operation and improvement:
- π§ Service: Change engine oil every 10β12 thousand km (even if the official regulations allow 15 thousand). For 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TSI use oil
5W-30or5W-40with permission VW 502.00/505.00. - β‘ Electronics: Regularly update the firmware of your multimedia system through an authorized dealer or service Skoda. This will help avoid touch screen glitches.
- π¨ Tuning: Popular improvements - installation sports firmware (for example, from Revo or APR) for 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TSI engines, as well as replacing standard optics with Full LED matrix headlights from Octavia RS.
For those who want to improve appearance, you can consider:
- ποΈ Installation spoiler from the RS version (fits without modifications).
- π₯ Sticking vinyl film on mirrors or roof (popular colors matte black and carbon).
- π΅ Installation soundproofing (especially true for versions with noisy diesel engines).
β οΈ Attention: When tuning the engine (chip tuning), be careful with versions 1.4 TSI - an increase in power over 180 hp can lead to overheating and system failure ACT.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
How to distinguish the restyled Octavia 3 from the pre-reform one?
Main external differences:
- πΉ New headlight shape (more angular, with LED segments in top versions).
- πΉ Chrome radiator grille with vertical stripes.
- πΉ Updated taillights (thinner, with dynamic turn signals in versions
StyleandL&K). - πΉ New body colors (Energy Blue, Magnetic Brown).
Inside, the key difference is the presence digital dashboard Virtual Cockpit (optional) and an updated multimedia system.
Which gearbox is more reliable: DSG or manual?
Manual transmission (6 manual transmission) is considered more reliable and cheaper to maintain. However 7-speed DSG robot (installed on versions with 1.0 TSI, 1.4 TSI and 1.6 TDI engines) also shows good reliability when used correctly. The main thing is change oil regularly (every 60 thousand km) and avoid aggressive driving style.
For engines 2.0 TSI and 2.0 TDI used 6-speed DSG, which is more durable, but it also requires timely maintenance.
Is it worth taking the Octavia 3 facelift with the 1.0 TSI engine?
Engine 1.0 TSI (115 hp) Suitable for quiet city driving, but has several disadvantages:
- π’ Insufficient dynamics when overtaking (especially with a full load).
- π’οΈ Increased fuel consumption during active driving (up to 8β9 l/100 km in the city).
- π§ Risk of overheating during long trips at high speeds.
If you want a more balanced option, you might want to consider 1.4 TSI (150 hp) β it is more economical and dynamic.
Which tires are better to choose for Octavia 3 facelift?
Recommended tire sizes depending on rim diameter:
- 16 inches:
205/55 R16(for example, Michelin Primacy 4 or Continental ContiPremiumContact 5). - 17 inches:
225/45 R17(Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 for summer tires). - 18 inches:
225/40 R18(Pirelli P Zero for a sporty driving style).
Popular for the winter season Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 or Bridgestone Blizzak LM-32.
Is it possible to install restyled headlights from the RS version on the Octavia 3?
Yes, headlights from Octavia RS (fully LED matrix) are suitable for installation on the restyled version, but you will need:
- π§ Refinement of wiring (connection to the light control unit).
- π± Adaptation via diagnostic equipment (VCDS or ODIS).
- π° Purchase of additional fasteners and adapters (about 10β15 thousand rubles).
The cost of the headlights themselves on the secondary market is from 80 to 120 thousand rubles. for a couple.