I am wondering if it is possible to upgrade from the low-end klima controls to the dual zone controls ? See below pictures of the controls in question.

This is a 2011 Octavia 1.6 CR wagon with manual gear box.

yes, but you would have to change a lot of other items

If you like the Dual Zone Climatronic, you would be better buying a new car

Thanks, nice to know it would plug-in even though not all functions would work.

In most cars, the manual controls are just mechanical operating cables that move flaps inside the dashboard. The fan dial is a switch with four positions plus off. VW has something called Climatic where the temperature is automatic and the rest is manual, not sure if the Skodas get this.

Anyways, automatic climate control has a bunch of electric motors hidden in the dashboard that control airflow and temperature. It would probably be possible to retrofit, but I would not attempt such a thing. Hence why I bought a car already equipped with climate control. After owning 3 cars with it, I would never want manual controls again. It's a pain to find a comfortable temperature, especially in summer with AC turned on.