Volkswagen Group is continuing its strategy of using standardized components to quickly expand the availability of its new hybrid engine. The Skoda Octavia, a midsize car produced by the Skoda brand, is now being offered with this new hybrid engine in two power levels. Until the start of 2026, Volkswagen focused on mild hybrid (mHEV 48V) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models, which use smaller battery systems and have different levels of electric-only driving capability. Now, a new hybrid engine—described as either "simple" or "full"—is being introduced, offering a hybrid option that resembles those from competitors like Renault or Toyota. This engine was first introduced in the Volkswagen Golf and T-Roc models and is expected to be gradually expanded to most vehicles built on the MQB platform, which is a modular system used for many Volkswagen Group models. The new hybrid system in the Skoda Octavia includes a 1.5-liter TSI ev2 engine, two electric motors, a single-speed transmission, and a clutch. This setup allows for three main driving modes: using only the electric motor, using both the electric and thermal (gasoline) motors together, or using only the electric motor while the thermal motor charges the 1.6 kWh battery. The battery is placed beneath the rear seats, which has slightly reduced the cargo space compared to the traditional non-hybrid version of the Octavia. Cargo volume is now 460 liters for the sedan version and 485 liters for the estate version, down from 600 and 640 liters in the non-hybrid models. The Octavia Hybrid will be available in two power levels: 100 kW (136 horsepower) and 125 kW (170 horsepower). The difference in power is due to the internal combustion engine, which produces 96 kW (130 hp) in the lower-power version and 110 kW (150 hp) in the higher-power version. Two trim levels, Selection and Sportline, will be offered, each with different features and styling. Prices are expected to be announced within the month, as the order period approaches. The first units of the Skoda Octavia Hybrid are anticipated to be delivered before the end of the year.