Volkswagen, criticized much for a lack of distinction between products sharing the same platform, is moving its many brands into clearer market positions. In Geneva, Skoda introduced the new Octavia, a Jetta-sized version of VW's most popular platform. The use of gasoline engines with direct fuel injection is noteworthy, as well as offering a direct-shift gearbox with both automatic and manual gear selection, leading to significant improvements in fuel economy. The new Octavia features an all-new chassis it shares with the latest version of the Golf, and a multi-element rear axle, which promises to give the car excellent driving characteristics along with superior comfort. In its very competitive B-segment market, competing even with sister brands within VW, the Skoda Octavia built in the Czech Republic, strives to offer a little bit more car for the money.
