Skoda Australia has confirmed mild-hybrid (MHEV) versions of the Octavia and Kodiaq won’t arrive until early next year.
Both electrified models are likely to hit our shores between March and June next year, which represents a delay of six months for the Octavia based on previous comments from local boss Lucie Kuhn.
Skoda Australia’s rollout of plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) will also begin early next year with PHEV versions of the Kodiaq and Superb, as Skoda continues to electrify its model lineup in Australia. Hotter RS versions of the Elroq and Enyaq electric SUVs are likewise slated to launch in early 2026.
“Just a few days ago it was definitely confirmed that we are going to get them (MHEVs) to Australia, and I expect availability in the market sometime like end of Q1, potentially early Q2,” Ms Kuhn told CarExpert at the launch of the new Elroq.
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Until recently, Skoda had ignored mild-hybrid tech for Australia due to our lack of emissions regulations and fuel quality.
However, with the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) now in force, Skoda and indeed other manufacturers are seeking to bring in cleaner and more efficient models to avoid exceeding CO2 limits and incurring financial penalties.
The Czech brand will debut its 48-volt mild-hybrid tech Down Under in the the Octavia liftback and wagon, which is offered with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder MHEV powertrain overseas.
Two states of tune are available in global markets – the base variant produces 85kW and 220Nm, while there’s also a 110kW/250Nm version – mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch auto transmission.
Energy recovered during braking is stored in the 48-volt lithium-ion battery, using a water-cooled belt-driven starter generator.
Skoda quotes fuel consumption of 4.9-5.4L/100km (WLTP) for MHEV versions of the Octavia, while CO2 emissions are rated at between 111-122g/km, depending on the variant.
That makes the mild-hybrid significantly cleaner than the current Australian-market Octavia 110TSI, which features a 110kW/250Nm turbo 1.4-litre four and produces 137-140g/km on the combined cycle depending on body style.
The Kodiaq SUV will also gain mild-hybrid tech in 2026, making the seven-seater a more eco-friendly option for Australian families.
“We’re expecting mild-hybrid technology for the Kodiaq… around Q2,” said Kieran Merrigan, Skoda Australia’s head of product and marketing.
Overseas, the Kodiaq gets the 110kW MHEV powertrain which also comes with the Volkswagen Group’s fuel-saving cylinder deactivation technology.
MORE: Skoda Octavia getting fuel-saving hybrid tech in Australia