As Skoda gears up towards launching nine new models by the year 2021, it’s the Octavia nameplate that might end up leading the charge as it enters its fourth generation.

Despite shifting some of their focus on crossovers such as the Kodiaq or the Karoq, the Octavia will likely remain Skoda’s most important car moving forward, which is why the Czech automaker can’t afford any missteps as far as its popular compact hatchback is concerned.

In terms of a time frame, since the current model received a facelift not too long ago, it seems that we’ll have to wait until 2020 for the fourth-gen car, which has already been spotted undergoing tests in early prototype form.

Aside from using an updated version of VW’s MQB architecture, allowing for both PHEV as well as 48-volt mild-hybrid powertrains, the next-gen Octavia will also retain its longer, saloon-like aesthetic, according to sales and marketing boss, Alan Favey.

Favey told Auto Express that the new Octavia “will continue the theme of looking like a saloon but actually being a hatch,” while also being “state-of-the-art”. We assume he’s talking about all the latest available safety, convenience and connectivity systems that one might find on a non-premium compact car in two years time.

If you’re trying to picture what such a car might look like, know that AutomobileMag claims we can expect a more classic exterior with a larger grille and chrome inserts, revised taillights, plus a digital instrument cluster inside.

2020-skoda-octavia-new-info-9 Skoda Exec Says 2020 Octavia Will Be A “State-Of-The-Art” Hatchback
2020-skoda-octavia-new-info-8 Skoda Exec Says 2020 Octavia Will Be A “State-Of-The-Art” Hatchback
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2020-skoda-octavia-new-info-5 Skoda Exec Says 2020 Octavia Will Be A “State-Of-The-Art” Hatchback
2020-skoda-octavia-new-info-4 Skoda Exec Says 2020 Octavia Will Be A “State-Of-The-Art” Hatchback
2020-skoda-octavia-new-info-3 Skoda Exec Says 2020 Octavia Will Be A “State-Of-The-Art” Hatchback
2020-skoda-octavia-new-info-2 Skoda Exec Says 2020 Octavia Will Be A “State-Of-The-Art” Hatchback
2020-skoda-octavia-new-info-1 Skoda Exec Says 2020 Octavia Will Be A “State-Of-The-Art” Hatchback
2020-skoda-octavia-new-info-9 Skoda Exec Says 2020 Octavia Will Be A “State-Of-The-Art” Hatchback
2020-skoda-octavia-new-info-8 Skoda Exec Says 2020 Octavia Will Be A “State-Of-The-Art” Hatchback
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2020-skoda-octavia-new-info-6 Skoda Exec Says 2020 Octavia Will Be A “State-Of-The-Art” Hatchback
2020-skoda-octavia-new-info-5 Skoda Exec Says 2020 Octavia Will Be A “State-Of-The-Art” Hatchback
2020-skoda-octavia-new-info-4 Skoda Exec Says 2020 Octavia Will Be A “State-Of-The-Art” Hatchback
2020-skoda-octavia-new-info-3 Skoda Exec Says 2020 Octavia Will Be A “State-Of-The-Art” Hatchback
2020-skoda-octavia-new-info-2 Skoda Exec Says 2020 Octavia Will Be A “State-Of-The-Art” Hatchback
2020-skoda-octavia-new-info-1 Skoda Exec Says 2020 Octavia Will Be A “State-Of-The-Art” Hatchback

Photo Credits: S. Baldauf / SB-Medien for CarScoops