In an automotive landscape dominated by SUVs and crossovers, the humble station wagon may seem like a relic of the past. Yet for Skoda, it remains a cornerstone of practicality, efficiency, and family appeal. This September, the Czech automaker will remind the world of the wagon’s enduring value with the unveiling of an all-electric concept version of the next-generation Octavia Combi at the Munich Auto Show.

A Glimpse Into Skoda’s Electric Future

First teased in 2023 as a “spacious electric estate,” the new concept is aimed at families and business users looking for a blend of utility and sustainability. Measuring approximately 4.7 meters in length, the electric Combi maintains the classic elongated profile of its predecessors but injects modern styling with sharp lines, large wheels, and a sporty silhouette. Initial design previews came in the form of a sculpture that hinted at the brand’s evolving design language.

The vehicle is being developed on the Volkswagen Group’s SSP (Scalable Systems Platform) — the same next-generation electric platform set to underpin future models like the upcoming VW Golf EV. This modular architecture promises enhanced range, efficiency, and digital connectivity.

Originally slated for release in 2026, the electric Octavia Combi’s launch has been delayed toward the end of the decade, a timeline shift that reflects Skoda’s strategic pacing in its EV rollout.

Evolution, Not Replacement

Importantly, Skoda isn’t abandoning its combustion roots just yet. While electrification is accelerating, the electric Combi won’t replace the existing Octavia lineup. The current generation, introduced in 2019 and refreshed in 2024, will continue with a diverse powertrain offering—including gasoline, diesel, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants. A second facelift is reportedly in the cards, likely extending the MQB-based Octavia’s production life well past 2030.

This strategy speaks to Skoda’s pragmatic approach. Rather than forcing a full electric transition, the brand is giving customers the freedom to choose when and how they adopt EV technology.

A Stronghold in the Wagon Market

Despite changing market trends, the Octavia Combi remains Skoda’s best-selling model in Europe in 2025, even outselling its hatchback counterpart. From January to May, the wagon moved 81,353 units, an impressive figure considering it marked a 21% year-over-year decline. This performance underscores the ongoing relevance of wagons for European buyers who value space and versatility.

EV Momentum Builds

May 2025 was a milestone month for Skoda’s electric ambitions. The brand delivered 14,290 electric vehicles, a staggering 181% increase year-over-year, overtaking Tesla and placing second only to Volkswagen in European EV sales. This surge was largely driven by the introduction of the Elroq SUV, which joins the Enyaq and Enyaq Coupe in Skoda’s growing electric portfolio.

Looking ahead, the electric expansion continues. In 2026, Skoda plans to introduce the Epiq, a compact EV SUV targeting a base price of €25,000. Built on the same platform as the VW ID.2 and Cupra Raval, the Epiq is positioned as an electric alternative to the Fabia, Scala, and Kamiq—models that will remain available with ICE options. Also slated for a 2026 debut is the production version of the Vision 7S concept, a large electric SUV that will sit above the Elroq and alongside the ICE-powered Kodiaq.

With the upcoming electric Octavia Combi concept, Skoda isn’t just reviving the wagon—it’s reimagining it. The brand’s commitment to the estate body style, even in an EV-focused era, signals that practicality and innovation can coexist. As Skoda balances tradition with transformation, one thing is clear: the station wagon still has a place in the modern garage—and it might just be electric.

Source: Auto News

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