Skoda will be launching a new variant of the Octavia running on compressed natural gas (CNG) at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. The Octavia G-TEC will be the first variant in Octavia’s lineup and the second model in Skoda’s entire product range alongside the Citigo hatchback to run on CNG. The Skoda pavilion will also showcase the Octavia Scout, the VisionC concept and 12 other exhibits at Geneva.
The Skoda Octavia G-TEC variant uses a 1.4-litre TSI turbo petrol engine that produces 110 HP of power and is equipped with features such as start-stop and regenerative braking. The car complies with the EU6 emission standards valid from September 2014. The Octavia G-TEC can complete a range of 410 kms on CNG alone, whereas on petrol, the car has a range of 920 kms (EU drive cycle). You get a complete driving range of 1330 kms on the G-TEC with both the fuel options.
The CO2 emissions are also down to 97 gm/km when running only on CNG. Skoda claims an official CNG consumption of 3.5 kgs per 100 km. The rising fuel prices and the stringent emission norms have compelled Skoda to offer the CNG variant on the Octavia as well. The C-segment sedan is a popular nameplate in Europe as well and the CNG variant will surely find a lot of homes. The G-TEC variant makes way for a more environment friendly and affordable Octavia on roads.
The G-TEC variant will be available for both the Octavia saloon and Octavia estate models, while the pricing will be disclosed at the world premiere in Geneva. The production of the G-TEC will commence by the end of May for Europe. Should Skoda launch CNG variants for its cars in India, your thoughts?
