I have ordered an Ambition base model Octavia built 2nd 2014. My only option here in Australia was get the Ambition with travel pack available at dealer or wait 4 months and get the same car with all the same things but have a factory fitted Columbus 8 inch SatNav. I chose the one available now and the dealer is trying to determine if it is possible to upgrade aftermarket into a 8inch Nav for this car. Still hasn't had much luck. Was wondering if anyone overseas from us know of any upgrades possible.

Thanks in advance.

People have tried and it isn't possible.

The Octavia MK3 uses MOST and Component protection for the infotainment system, as such you cannot just swap components because once they are installed they are locked to the car. Only a dealer can remove the component protection, and its done online to Skoda HQ.

 

Its been done due to the huge number of thefts of the original Columbus so a tougher security system was needed,

 

Even after 12 years of component protection and MOST, its still secure and as yet nobody has cracked it. My 10 year old Audi A8 has the same system in place.

And if you do retrofit and take it to a dealer, there have been reported cases that the factory can't get retrofit to work as well!

Should mention for overseas people not familiar with Australian models it is the Swing Radio I want upgraded from to a Columbus.