Salon Skoda Octavia: interior review, materials and hidden chips

Salon Skoda Octavia It is a combination of German practicality and Czech rationalism. A model built on a platform MQB, inherited the best features from Volkswagen GolfBut with characteristic "Shkadov" accents: spaciousness, thoughtful ergonomics and unexpected solutions for comfort. In this article, we will analyze the interior Octavia generations A8 (2020–present) and A7 (2013–2020)compare materials of finishing, evaluate multimedia systems and reveal Hidden features that are not written in dealer brochures.

Why the salon Octavia Is it often called a classroom benchmark? It’s not just about size (wheelbase) 2686 mm One of the longest in the segment. Every detail is important here: from seat adjustments to the location of cupholders. We have analyzed the feedback from owners, test drives and technical specifications to create an honest guide for those who choose a car with a focus on the interior.

Evolution of the cabin: comparison of generations A7 and A8

Transition from Octavia A7 to A8 In 2020, it was revolutionary not so much on the outside as on the inside. If the previous generation was criticized for excess plastic and conservative design, the new model received a new model. digital dashboard, double-sleeper dashboard and premium materials in the top versions. But everything in order.

Octavia A7 (2013–2020) It was based on the principle of “nothing extra”. The salon was ascetic but functional:

• 🔹 Plastic prevailed even in the complete sets Style and L&KAlthough the quality of the assembly remained at a high level.
• 🔹 Analog dashboard with a monochrome display between the speedometer and the tachometer.
• 🔹 Multimedia system Bolero or Columbus With physical buttons, it’s convenient, but morally obsolete by 2020.
• 🔹 Ergonomics: steering wheel with a minimum number of keys, gearbox lever of the classical shape.

B Octavia A8 (2020–present) the changes affected everything:

• 🔹 Digital dashboard Virtual Cockpit (optional) with diagonal 10,25" - same as in Audi A3.
• 🔹 Two-level dashboard with climate control touch buttons (in version) Style and above).
• 🔹 Multimedia system MIB3 with voice assistant Laura and support Apple CarPlay/Android Auto wirelessly.
• 🔹 Materials: soft plastic on the dashboard, leather trim steering wheel even in the basic versions, optional finishing of door cards with fabric Alcantara.

But not all is so rosy: the owners A8 complain about glossy-panel fingerprint And less intuitive climate control through sensors. And A7 Many people miss physical buttons and the parking brake lever instead of the electronic one.

Finishing materials: what to choose for durability?

Skoda offers several options for interior trim depending on the configuration. Let’s figure out what materials are worth your money, and what you can save on.

Equipment	Seat material	Finishing of dashboard/doors	Features
Active	Fabric Cloth	Hard plastic	Budget option, resistant to wear, but looks simple
Ambition	Fabric Cloth + artificial leather	Soft plastic + aluminum inserts	Optimal price/quality ratio, easy to clean
Style	Faux leather V-Tex or Alcantara	Soft plastic + decorative inserts	V-Tex It imitates natural skin, but is less durable
L&K	Genuine leather Nappa	Soft plastic + wooden inserts or aluminum	Premium option, but requires care (skin conditioning)

Fabric finishing (Active/Ambition) is the best choice for family use. It is not marquee (if you do not take light colors), well ventilated and does not heat up in summer. Here. V-Tex leather (Style) may crack after 3-4 years with heavy use, especially if parked frequently in the open sun.

Genuine leather Nappa (L&K) looks luxurious but has its own nuances:

• 🔹 Requires regular care (skin conditioning every 3-6 months).
• 🔹 In hot climates, it can "sweat" and stick to the body.
• 🔹 Sensitive to sharp objects (keys, belts) - scratches remain forever.

Interesting fact: in Octavia RS (Sports version) used Alcantara on the steering wheel and seats. This material provides better grip, but it collects dust quickly and is difficult to clean. Owners recommend vacuuming the cabin every 2 weeks.

Ergonomics and Controlling: What to Consider?

One of the key advantages Skoda Octavia - thoughtful ergonomics. Everything is arranged so that the driver can reach any button without taking his hands off the steering wheel. But there are also controversial issues.

Steering wheel in A8 It became multifunctional: it appeared touch keys (in the version). Style and above) which manage multimedia and cruise control. However, many owners complain that Touch buttons are difficult to press with gloves in winter. B A7 There was no problem, all the keys are physical.

Driver's position It's broadly tuned:

• 🔹 Adjustment of the steering wheel on offset and inclination (even in the basic configuration).
• 🔹 Electric seat drive with settings memory (optional in) L&K).
• 🔹 Heated steering wheel and seats (available from the Ambition).
• 🔹 Ventilated seats (only in L&K for some markets).

Central tunnel in Octavia A8 It was a little bit wider, which added to the legroom, but The armrest is no longer adjustable in height. (unlike A7). This can be uncomfortable for high-tall drivers.

Hidden seat adjustments

B Octavia A8 in complete sets Style and L&K There is a hidden function: if you press the seat memory button and hold it for 5 seconds, the "comfort exit" mode is activated - the seat and steering wheel will move back for a comfortable exit from the car.

Another important point - visibility. Due to the large area of glazing and thin racks in Octavia Great visibility. But in the version with a panoramic roof (Panoramic Sunroof) rear passengers may get hot in summer - the sunscreen does not always save.

Multimedia systems: Bolero, Amundsen or Columbus?

Skoda offers three main multimedia systems for the OctaviaAnd their capabilities are very different. We'll see which one is right for you.

1. Bolero (base system)

• 🔹 Screen size: 6,5" or 8" (depending on the year).
• 🔹 Control: physical buttons + touch screen.
• 🔹 Functions: Bluetooth, USB, DAB radio (optional).
• 🔹 Cons: no navigation, slow interface.

2. Amundsen (medium level)

• 🔹 Diagonal: 8" or 9,2" (in A8).
• 🔹 Navigation with 3D maps and voice input.
• 🔹 Support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wired connection).
• 🔹 Cons: the maps are updated for a fee, the interface is not the most modern.

3. Columbus (top-top system)

• 🔹 Diagonal: 10" (in A8).
• 🔹 Navigation with online traffic (via the Skoda Connect).
• 🔹 Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
• 🔹 Voice assistant Laura (Recognizes commands in Russian).
• 🔹 Cons: expensive option, sometimes "glutting" voice input.

An important nuance: in Octavia A8 system Columbus platform MIB3, which supports Over-The-Air updates. This means that software can be updated by air without visiting a dealer. V A7 To update the maps or firmware had to go to the service or use SD card.

If you often use CarPlay or Android Auto, pay attention to wireless connection - It's only available in Columbus (from 2021). B Bolero and Amundsen You'll have to connect over the wire.

Practicality: trunk, pockets and hidden compartments

Skoda Octavia It is famous for its trunk, and this is not an exaggeration. In the back. liftback volume 600 l, and in station wagon — 640 l (up to 1700 l with the seats folded down). But practicality is not just about volume.

Hidden compartments and chips:

• 🔹 Double trunk bottom (in A8): there is an additional compartment under the floor for storing documents or small items.
• 🔹 Hooks and nets: in the trunk there are 4 hooks for bags and a removable grid organizer.
• 🔹 Heated/cooled cup holders (option in L&K).
• 🔹 Umbrella in the driver's door - Skoda brand "chip" that is really convenient.

There are also plenty of storage spaces in the cabin:

• 🔹 Glove box Refrigerated (option) – you can store water bottles.
• 🔹 Armrest tablet- or laptop-room (in A8).
• 🔹 Pockets in the doorway contain bottles of up to 1.5 l.
• 🔹 Secret box Under the trunk floor (only in the station wagon).

But there are also disadvantages: in A8 gone over the rear-view mirror (was in the A7) and cup holders in the central tunnel are not suitable for large mugs (maximum - standard) 0.5 l glass.

If you often carry long-lengths (skis, boards), pay attention to the rear-seat. B Octavia they divide in proportion 40:20:40This allows the transport of goods to 2.1 m in length with the folded central segment.

Lighting and atmosphere: how to make the room more comfortable?

The atmosphere in the cabin Skoda Octavia It depends not only on materials, but also on lighting. V A8 There are new options that make the interior more premium.

Types of lighting:

• 🔹 Ambient lighting (option in Style and L&K10 colors to choose from, managed through multimedia.
• 🔹 Foot lighting (front and back) – automatically activates when the door is opened.
• 🔹 LED trunk lighting - brighter than in A7, and it doesn't warm.
• 🔹 Head-up display (option) - displays speed and navigation on the windshield.

The owners note that ambient lighting in Octavia A8 It looks stylish, but Not all colors are equally bright. For example, blue and green shine more intensely than red or purple. In addition, the basic configuration of the backlight is only one color (white), and multicolor is available only with Style.

One more trick - door-panel (in L&K). They create the effect of "floating" door cards, but require careful attitude: scratches on the glossy surface are striking.

B Octavia A7 Lighting was simpler: only white lighting of the dashboard and plafonds in the cabin. But there was. lintel (Yes, it still happens in cars!) A8.

Common problems and how to avoid them

Even in such a well-designed salon as in Skoda OctaviaThere are weaknesses. Let’s look at the typical complaints of owners and ways to prevent them.

1. Plastic screeches

• 🔹 Reason: in A7 Over time, the dashboard panels and the central tunnel begin to creak.
• 🔹 Solution: treat joints with silicone lubrication or install additional clips.

2. Wear of the climate control touch buttons (in A8)

• 🔹 Reason: Touch panels quickly become scratched and stop responding to touch.
• 🔹 Solution: stick a protective film or use physical buttons (if any).

3. Fogging of glass

• 🔹 Reason: weak ventilation at the rear of the cabin (especially in the A7).
• 🔹 Solution: regularly clean the cabin filter and turn on the blowing on the rear windows.

4. Multimedia problems

• 🔹 Reason: in Bolero and Amundsen often "hangs" Bluetooth or not connected CarPlay.
• 🔹 SolutionReset the multimedia settings through Settings → System → Reset.

How to Reset Multimedia in the Octavia A8

Press the system switch for 10 seconds. After the reboot, all settings will be reset to the factory. If this does not help, contact the dealer for flashing.

5. Wear of the seats

• 🔹 Reason: in configurations with skin-film After 3-4 years, the scuffs appear.
• 🔹 Solution: use covers or choose fabric finishes immediately.

Another typical problem is noise from plastic panels on a rough road. B A8 This is less common due to better noise insulation, but in A7 Owners often install additional vibration insulation on doors and arches.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Skoda Octavia interior

Can I install ambient lighting in the basic configuration? Octavia A8?

Yeah, but that would require replacing the control and wiring units. Officially, Skoda does not offer such an option, but some tuning studios install LED tapes with multimedia control. The cost is from 15 000 rubles.

Which salon is better for a family with children: fabric or artificial leather?

It's perfect for the family. fabrication (Active or Ambition). It is less stamped, does not heat up in the summer and does not require special care. Artificial leather (artificial leather)V-Tex) gets dirty quickly from the child seats and is more difficult to clean.

Is it true that in Octavia A8 worse noise insulation than in A7?

No, it's a myth. B A8 noise insulation improved: more dense materials are used in doors and arches. However, in A7 with engines 1.8 TSI or 2.0 TDI The sound insulation seemed better due to the more "deaf" sound of the engine.

Is it possible in Octavia A7 install Virtual Cockpit as in A8?

Technically possible, but very expensive. Replacement of the dashboard, control unit and wiring will be required. The cost of conversion can exceed 100 000 rubles, which is not advisable for a car older than 5 years.

What equipment Octavia The most practical for a taxi?

It's better to choose a taxi Ambition with fabric-room and multimedia by Amundsen. This configuration offers:

• 🔹 Strong seats, resistant to abrasion.
• 🔹 Climate control for the comfort of passengers.
• 🔹 Enough multimedia functions without frills.

Avoid L&K - genuine leather wears out quickly during intensive operation.