Automobiles Review

Tag: Skoda

  • SKODA Octavia celebrates its 25th anniversary

    2021 SKODA OctaviaSKODA AUTO team has embarked on a quite special journey back in 1996. Back then, the Mladá Boleslav, one of the most advanced car plants in Europe went into operation and began producing the brand’s most important model – Octavia. Since then, about 7 million vehicles have been delivered to their new owners.

    The model has played a major role in the brand’s successful development over the following years. Octavia has won not one or two awards since then and throughout the decades has proven itself as a worthy SKODA representative for a total of 7 generations.

    As it comes to the model lineup itself, the history of the Octavia began in 1992, a year after SKODA AUTO had joined the VW group when the compact class was gradually developed and has established itself in the world of the automobile industry.

    One of the most notable features of the model was the high level of active and passive safety, including the front and side airbags.

    Some years later, in 1996, customers had already the chance to choose an Octavia with either one of the two four-cylinder petrol engines and a turbo-diesel unit, the neat 1.9 TDI. Then the Octavia Estate made its debut in 1998, and an even more refined version was added in 1999.

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    These glorious days were followed by more successful models, and recently the lineup has been geared with a DSG dual-clutch gearbox and tons of futuristic gadgets.

    The current lineup includes a saloon and estate body version with a front-wheel drive or an AWD system. Also, efficient petrol and diesel engines are now joined hybrid and hybrid options for even more flexibility and personalization.

    The ŠKODA Octavia continues to enjoy global demand as an established name in its segment. This is also confirmed by numerous awards from renowned trade magazines.

  • SKODA reveals new AWD 80x SportLine version of the Enyaq iV

    2021 SKODA Eniaq iVSKODA expands the Enyaq iV electric SUV lineup with a new AWD 80x SportLine version. This is by far the most powerful Enyaq iV with its 265hp.

    The newcomer is geared with a second electric motor which drives the front axle and contributes to a more responsive and aggressive driving character. It also helps the vehicle to be the fastest in the lineup with an acceleration rate of 6.9 seconds to reach 100km/h, this is truly a menacing vehicle.

    Just like its rear-wheel sibling, the 80x SportLine is geared with a sports chassis and comes with a lower ride height that reduces gravity and enhances the handling capabilities. Furthermore, the new Enyak iV comes with full LED Matrix headlights with an intelligent technology that automatically turns off individual segments of the light beam when the camera on the windscreen detects vehicles, pedestrians, and any kind of object.

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    As it comes to the interior, the 80x SportLine’s upholstery and roof lining are covered in black, and the dashboard is upholstered in black synthetic leather with grey contrasting stitching and carbon-fiber effects. Furthermore, the three-spoke multifunctional leather sports steering wheel is also a part of the standard equipment and features a leather-covered rim with grey contrasting stitching and exclusive badges.

     

  • ŠKODA team celebrates the 10th anniversary of its Land Speed Record sprint

    2011 SKODA Octavia RSSKODA is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the land speed record of the famous Bonneville Salt flats in Utah, USA.  Back in 2011, Friday, 19th of August, an exclusively tuned SKODA Octavia RS, driven by journalist Richard Meaden, officially became the fastest 2.0-liter forced injection production vehicle, registering a Southern California Timing Association (SCTA) sanctioned speed of 227.080mph.

    To celebrate, SKODA team made a complete restoration of the 2011 Ocativa vRS, returning it to the same specs that were featured through the final run at the salt flats. The restored sports car was put through its paces at Millbrook Proving Grounds’ high-sped bowl by members of the motor press, alongside a selection of some of SKODA’s greatest performance models, past and present.

    Recalling ŠKODA’s record-breaking visit to Bonneville, Meaden said: Driving the salt flats was a dream come true. It always felt like a privilege to be allowed to charge flat-out down the salt. Knowing how much passion and hard work went into getting the Octavia to Speed Week made that privilege all the greater. I’m incredibly proud of what we all achieved and will never forget how it felt to break a record or to be part of such an exceptional group of people.

    Despite the fact that the 2011 Octavia became the first SKODA to hold an official Land Speed Record, the initial goal of Skoda team was to break the 200mph barrier. The breaking run consisted of two official sprints of Bonneville’s famous five-mile course – the first scored a highest speed at 225.513mph on Thursday 18 August, and the return marked 228.647mph on Friday 19 August.

    As it comes to the vehicle itself, the Octavia was originally designed to join SKODA UK press fleet before being requisitioned for the Bonneville project.

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    Based on a production Octavia vRS 2.0 TSI, the Bonneville Special has undergone tons of modifications in order to qualify and have a chance to break a record. Under the regulations of Southern California Timing Association, only a certain set of mods were allowed. Such were an injection system modded to deliver more fuel to the engine, and a cooling system which benefited from the addition of a 10-litre radiator. The longer-geared transmission from an Octavia GreenLine was also installed to enable a higher top speed, while the traditional brake discs and calipers were removed and replaced by a parachute to ensure the car could safely stop on the salt surface. Operated by a lever in the cabin, this had the added advantages of reducing excess drag, unsprung weight and friction.

  • New SKODA Enyaq iV can be specified with Crystal Face upgrade

    2021 SKODA Enyaq iVSKODA ads a new option for the Enyaq iV – a Crystal Face grille variant. Available for Enyaq iV 80 models, the feature is inspired by the Vision iV concept vehicle that was unveiled back in 2019 Geneva Motor Show.

    The new grille comes with more than 130 LED’s from 18 vertical ribs and a horizontal strip that runs through the width of the frame. This frame is finished in either chrome or black. Furthermore, the Crystal Face features an animated Coming/Leaving Home function and alongside the LEDs and the daytime lights, creates an unique welcoming light display. The “Face” turns on when the headlights are activated and illuminates the road ahead along with the dipped beam lights.

    The Crystal Face is a standard feature in the Light and View Plus upgrade package and can be specified on all Enyaq iV 80 models.

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    As it comes to the vehicle itself, SKODA Enyaq iV is one of the most notable contemporary models in brand’s lineup. Based on Volkswagen Group’s modular electrification toolkit, the all-electric SUV marks the start of the brand’s electromobility business expansion.

  • The latest SKODA Fabia model rolls out of the production line

    2021 SKODA FabiaToday, the fourth-generation Fabia rolled off the line at SKODA’s main plant in Mladá Boleslav. The facility was specially modified so that the latest generation of the popular small car could be built there. New Fabia is based on Volkswagen’s MQB-A0 platform and enables the vehicle to be super spacious and packed with an additional number of features, systems, and goodies.

    New Fabia is 4,108mm long and 1,780mm wide, which makes it one of the largest Fabias ever produced. The boot space, which was already the largest in the segment, has also received additional 50 liters to the total of 380 liters. Neat!

    The design and new proportions of the new Fabia make the vehicle extremely appealing. For the first time ever, the model in the lineup comes with the MQB-A0 platform, comes with other notable features – an exclusive AWD system with a manual gearbox or an automatic 7-speed DSG system. There’s also a choice between five petrol engines produced by Volkswagen’s current EVO generation. All these units blend low emissions and enhanced driving dynamics. What is also notable about this lineup is the drag coefficient (cd) of 0.28, which sets a record in the small car segment. Fabia’s latest edition also comes with tons of utility systems that were previously available exclusively for the higher-end SKODA machines.

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  • SKODA Superb takes home yet another prestigious award

    2021 SKODA SuperbSKODA Superb has scored its sixth consecutive win at the Fleet News Awards and managed to retain its Best Upper Medium Car title.

    The vehicle first impressed the jury back in 2016 and since then the Czech-built hatch and estate models have dominated the event thoroughly.

    Summarising the ongoing appeal of the Superb to fleet operators and company car drivers, Fleet News said; “Company car drivers looking for a cost-effective mile-muncher would have a hard time finding a more suitable car than the ŠKODA Superb.”

    Commenting on the popular Superb iV plug-in hybrid model, the title added: We’re big fans of the Superb and this model makes it a more attractive company car choice. It offers near-silent running in EV mode and has the added benefit of remote heater and air-con activation via an app. You simply cannot get a better upper-medium car.

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    The Superb remains the most popular and beloved model in SKODA’s history, having claimed more than 60 awards in the UK alone, since its re-introduction back in 2001. The latest version was launched in 2019 and offers a wide choice of engine, gearbox and trim customizations. There’s also a plug-in hybrid version and a fleed-focussed SE Technology model.

     

  • SKODA updates the Kodiaq SUV: here’s a quick look at what’s new

    2021 SKODA KodiaqSKODA team has updated its Kodiaq model and now the latest family member comes with a neat body design, advanced technologies, and neat utility features. Let’s find out more, shall we?

    Exterior design

    The vehicle demonstrates a bold design language with aluminum-effect details, wide-body inserts, and neat details. The front reveals a new face design with a redesigned hexagonal grille and new and slimmer leadlight design. Furthermore, the 20-inch Sagitarius alloys enhance the overall sporty silhouette, just like the elegant curves and neat lines. At the rear, there is a new glossy black spoiler and neat side finlets on the rear window for enhanced styling expression and drag reduction capabilities.

    Interior design

    2021 SKODA Kodiaq

    New Skoda also comes with a fully redesigned cabin that now offers even more comfort and utility features. For the first time, the brand equips a Kodiaq vehicle with ergonomic front seats and LED ambient lighting.

    There’s also a leather steering wheel with two or three spokes and new functions like knurled wheel buttons, DSG shift paddles, and an optional 10-speaker CANTON audio system with a total output of 625 watts.

    Drivetrain system

    Depending on the trim level, the new Kodiaq can be geared with a total of two diesel engines and three petrol units. The diesels are 2.0-liter TDI engines that generate either 150hp or 200hp of output and are mated to a 7-speed DSG. The petrol units are consistent of a 1.5-liter TSI with 150hp output and mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, a 190hp unit, and a 245 engine, both coming with AWD and DSG 7-speed automatic gearboxes. All engines in the lineup are Euro 6d compliant.

    Safety features

    2021 SKODA Kodiaq

    The refreshed SKODA Kodiaq offers tons of improved assistance and safety features like nine airbags, Travel Assist suite with Predictive Cruise Control, Adaptive Lane Assist and an improved version of Traffic Sign Recognition.

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     When it comes to assistance systems, the new SKODA Kodiaq features Front Assist suite with Predictive Pedestrian Protection and City Emergency Brake function. Other systems include Travel Assist with Adaptive Cruise Control, Stop and Go function, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Adaptive Lane Assist.

  • New SKODA Enyaq iV is in dealerships!

    2021 SKODA Enyaq iVSKODA’s highly-anticipated Enyaq iV is already available for purchase!

    The model was firstly showcased back in 2019 as a Vision iV concept vehicle and showcased SKODA’s future plans for electrified vehicles.

    Now, the production vehicle offers innovative drivetrain technology, elegant design, and a large list of standard features. The Enyaq iV is specially designed to fit a wide range of people and answer the needs of even the most demanding customer.

    The range consists of two variants: Enyaq iV 60 Nav and Enyaq iV 80 with 62kWh and 82kWh battery packs respectively.

    Along with the technical excellence, the entire Enyaq range provides customers with a cozy and elegant interior with tons of functions, a dedicated suite of safety features, and an overall rewarding driving experience with numerous utility and convenience gadgets.

    2021 SKODA Enyaq iV

    Furthermore, any vehicle in the lineup comes with aftersale care packages: Small Medium, and Large. The first one, the Small covers customers for essential servicing like brake fluid changes, dust and pollen filters leaning. It also includes Driverline concierge – 24/7 service that covers breakdown, recovery, and glass care.

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    The Medium pack adds routine maintenance services, including brake, suspension, and cooling system repairs, electric system maintenance, all fluids top-ups.

    The Large pack adds includes tire replacement and wheel alignment (due to fair wear and tear), puncture repair, geometry check, and wheel balance.

    2021 SKODA Enyaq iV

  • SKODA announces an all-new customer sevice and payment plan for old vehicles

    2021 SKODA All-In Customer ServiceSKODA ensures even greater peace of mind to brand enthusiasts with the introduction of the All-In SKODA aftercare pack. It is created for vehicles aged between 3 and 6 years and is specially tailored to enhance the customer support possibilities for SKODA owners and their vehicles.

    The pack is available for all 3-6 old SKODA vehicles, not just the ones bought through the brand’s approved channels, and gives the chance for a free initial inspection by a trained SKODA technician and covers the cost of two services, and two annual MOT tests, as some additional service procedures.

    The package takes away the need to plan ahead for the main future serving costs and allows customers to budget more precisely their payment method. This approach highlights the brand’s dedication to delivering stress-free ownership possibilities.

    2021 SKODA All-In Customer Service

    The program is valid for SKODA vehicles aged between 3 and 6 years with a 2.0-liter power unit or under 100,000 miles at activation.

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    As it seems, the SKODA team not only focuses its attention on delivering us advanced vehicles but also enhancing its customer support services. Taking care of both old and new vehicles, and especially with such appealing offerings, the Czech manufacturer really draws attention both from brand enthusiasts and critics.

    2021 SKODA All-In Customer Service

  • New Skoda Octavia Scout is available for the emergency teams

    2021 SKODA Octabia ScoutSKODA Octavia Scout has long been the choice of emergency services thanks to its enhanced off-road potential and the many possibilities for customization. The latest vehicle in the lineup is set to be no exception: it is even more reliable and is also is fully converted to the requirements it is set to meet.

    The vehicle can be specified with a choice of a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel power unit with either 150hp or 200hp output, and mated to an AWD DSG gearbox. Furthermore, the vehicle is raised by 15mm, compared to the standard Octavia, and has a total ground clearance of 161mm. The vehicle also Scout boasts a 15.8° approach angle, 13.9° departure angle, and ramp angle of up to 19.7°.

    The Scout is also the first Octavia model to offer the optimal Off-Road function. This feature adapts the stability systems (ABS, ASR, ESC, and others) for off-road driving and ensures smooth power delivery, and holds the DSG gearbox at higher rpm before shifting. In addition, the Scout offers 640 liters of boot space and can hold all the equipment for any police force, fire, and rescue service team. There’s also a dual-zone climatronic and 10 airbags.

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    In terms of interior, Scout includes black thermoflux upholstery with Tabor brown stitching and Scout logos. There’s a large 10.25-inch display for the Virtual Cockpit and a 10-inch touchscreen. Occupants can also benefit from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with five USB Type-C ports.

    2021 SKODA Octabia Scout

    Source: SKODA 

  • New SKODA Kodiaq: a quick overview

    2021 SKODA KodiaqSKODA announced final specs and details for the new and fully updated Kodiaq. The revised range arrives in July reveals tons of design changes and specification improvements, alongside new engine options and enhanced assistive technologies.

    Exterior and interior design

    The Kodiaq proudly showcases new front end with six-sided radiator grille and a higher bonnet. The bumpers are redesigned to contribute to that sharper appearance and the central air intake is now a bit wider than the predecessors. SE and SE L trim and aluminum-effect on the front and rear apron and give that more rugged and aggressive feel.

    The vehicle also benefits from a new front lights design and now feature a full LED Matrix lights that are a part of the standard equipment from SE L upwards.

    As it comes to the interior, the Kodiaq is the most spacious and practical vehicle in the entire lineup. The new model features a two-spoke steering wheel and tons of driver-assistive technologies.

    Drivetrain system

    2021 SKODA Kodiaq

    The revised Kodiaq comes with five engine options – three petrol units and two diesels. Just as predecessor models, the GSG gearbox and the four-wheel drive are available on some trim levels.

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    Furthermore, all Kodiaq engines are part of the EVO lineup, which focuses on efficiency. The sporting highlight is the new 2.0-liter TSI 245hp unit. It is lighter with about 60 kilograms, compared with the previous model and is mated to a DISG gearbox.

    2021 SKODA Kodiaq

    Source: SKODA 

  • New Skoda Enyaq wins its first-ever award!

    2022 SKODA Enyaq iVNew SKODA Enyaq iV, the brand’s pure electric vehicle, has started its awards and recognition collection by scoring a major victory at the 2021 electrifying.com awards.

    The jury named the new Enyaq iV the Best Family Car 2021 and praised the model’s practical design and convenient features. Commenting on the award, electrifying.com founder Ginny Buckley said: “We’ve had more questions from readers about this car than any other over the past year. Real people are thinking it could be the right car for them. Having driven the car on UK roads, we don’t think they’ll be disappointed.”

    Enyaq iV comes with a new concept and will be the base for all future SKODA models. Available with two battery packs and a wide choice of personalization options, the vehicle can specify its Enyaq in many convenient ways and benefit from a WLTP driving range of up to 333 miles on a single charge. In addition, SKODA has announced four-wheel-drive models coming to the lineup later this year, as well as a special SportLine version that will be soon announced.

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    New Enyaq iV is already available for order and the first deliveries will be available in July this year.

    Source: SKODA