First look: Skoda reveals new Octavia

SKODA will reveal the latest generation Octavia small car at next months’s Geneva motor show.

The Octavia is of interest in Australia because it would form a crucial part of the Volkswagen-owned Czech manufacturer’s local line-up, along with the Fabia light car, if it was to return Down Under – and right now that’s a big if.

A series of meetings between Skoda and the potential local distributor, Volkswagen Group Australia (VGA), has failed to nail down the details of a relaunch of the brand here after a 20-year absence.

VGA boss Peter Nochar has only just completed another round of meetings with Skoda as part of the ongoing negotiations.

Mr Nochar has previously talked about a number of plans and timetables for Skoda returning to Australia, including as a diesel-only brand with an emphasis on practicality.

VGA had hoped to get Skoda on sale here as soon as late 2002 but that fell by the wayside, at least in part because it decided to wait on the release of this all-new car.

The most recent timing mooted by Mr Nochar was 2005-06.

"We have prepared a few different models of how the brand could work here and basically the ball is in Skoda’s court," said VGA general manager press and PR, Brad Leach.

"We have given them models along the lines of how the business could be structured this way and that way, dealer numbers, pricing, profitability. We can’t really do any more," Mr Leach said.

"They have to do some work their side, so we are in a holding pattern at the moment.

"There is still a willingness on both sides, it just comes down to dollars." Based on the recently launched Golf V, the new Octavia is 4572mm long, 1769mm wide and 1462mm high.

Engine choices include 1.4 (55kW) and 1.6 (75kW) multipoint fuel-injected and 1.6 (85kW) and 2.0 (110kW) direct-injected petrol engines. The diesel engine range includes a 1.9 (77kW) and 2.0-litre (103kW).

* VGA’s plan to import VW-owned Spanish brand Seat into Australia remains similarly uncertain.

"We have prepared a business plan and we are awaiting their consideration," Mr Leach said.