Automobiles Review

Tag: Skoda

  • FUNstar SKODA Comes With a Fun Project

    SKODA FUNstarSkoda Auto demonstrates a dream car for 23 trainees from the SKODA Auto Vocational School. This is a fun car concept and it is based on the SKODA Fabia model. The name? ŠKODA FUNstar pickup. Fun, right? The SKODA FUNstar will be shown at the 34th GTI Meeting at Wörthersee from 13 to 16 May 2015.

    The 23 young trainees have been tweaking and tinkering the vehicle since November 2014. All of the young engineers participated in the creation and gave numerous ideas, solutions, drawings and designs. And of course, all the trainees were helped by chief designer Jozef Kaban and SKODA AUTO Production Director Michael Oeljeklaus.  The idea is not just to demonstrate an unique vehicle, but also to teach the young engineers, that pragmatism and implementation skills are as important as flexibility and inventiveness.

     The FUNstar is a pickup, that is based on the ŠKODA Fabia model and contains lots of the well-known Fabia features. The FUNstar comes with metallic colors, grey and green to be precise. There are special LED lights, mounted below the sidebars and additional dual LED lens headlights, especially designed for daytime ride. The “Fun” model comes with 18-inch Gemini alloy wheels, taken from the Octavia RS.

    SEE ALSO: Skoda Fabia R5 is Ready for the Road

    The engine is a 1.2-Liter petrol TS, that delivers a total of 133 hp (90 kW). And there is a really special seven-speed transmission, that works in full harmony with the powerplant unit. But the goodies don’t end here. The interior continues the sporty affair. The inside welcomes you with steel-grey and moon-white components and challenges you to use one of the best sport wheels, that ŠKODA brand offers. But how you will have fun without music? Don’t worry. The FUNstar is geared with 1400-Watt audio system, that delivers incredible sound quality. The youngsters behind the FUNstar project really know how to deliver both high performance and fun experience.

    With the “Trainee Car” project ŠKODA demonstrates high-quality training session, that combines both theory and practice. In fact ŠKODA team offers numerous programs for technical training, that at the end give chance to the trainees to get full-time jobs at ŠKODA plant. What better start for young engineers and technicians, who want to build a solid career?

    ŠKODA team demonstrates the importance of a well-done education and training, which, as we all know, results on a high-quality product. We congratulate the young team and wish them numerous more achievements and a bright and successful careers!

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    Pess release:

    The new dream car of 23 trainees from the ŠKODA AUTO Vocational School: the ŠKODA FUNstar pickup. The fun vehicle concept, based on the new ŠKODA Fabia, is the result of ŠKODA’s ‘trainee car’ project, which was run for the first time last year. The ŠKODA FUNstar will be making its public debut at the 34th GTI Meeting at Wörthersee from 13 to 16 May 2015.

    The two young women and 21 young men have been tinkering on their own vehicle project since November 2014.  Developing ideas and discussing possible solutions, drawing, designing and they have built a very special, unique car. Inventiveness and flexibility are just as important as pragmatism and implementation skills. The trainees have been supported in their work by ŠKODA chief designer Jozef Kabaň and ŠKODA AUTO Production Director Michael Oeljeklaus. The new ‘Trainee Car’ is almost ready; the premiere takes place at the legendary GTI Meeting at Wörthersee in Austria in mid-May.

    This is the second year in a row that the Czech manufacturer has given selected trainees the opportunity to create their dream car. The company’s goal with this programme is to promote and strengthen the vocational students’ creativity and expertise. “After the excellent results of the ŠKODA Trainee Car premiere last year, it was clear that we would continue the project,” said ŠKODA HR Director Bohdan Wojnar. “We are once again delighted with our students’ creative ideas and their goal-oriented implementation. We would like to thank everyone who has supported the project, especially the teachers at the ŠKODA AUTO Vocational School. The ŠKODA FUNstar is a great concept car that is going to surprise and inspire visitors at the GTI Meeting.”

    The ŠKODA FUNstar is a funky pickup based on the new ŠKODA Fabia – cheeky, fresh and surprising. This is a bright, sharp pickup with a real fun factor, not only in name. The ŠKODA FUNstar stands out with its metallic colours steel-grey and moon-white. The sills, grille surround and the rear spoiler form a striking contrast in reflex-green. One special feature is the LED lights mounted below the sidebars. The dual-lens headlights also feature LED technology, with green LED light strips serving as daytime running lights. LEDs are also used in the rear lights.

    “Through this project, our apprentices have really shown what they are capable of,” said ŠKODA Production Board member Michael Oeljeklaus whose department has taken the junior employees under their wing in production technology. “The project has been great fun. The students have really got on board with the task, showing great zeal and developing their expertise.”

    The ŠKODA FUNstar drives up on 18-inch ‘Gemini’ alloys from the Octavia RS. The engine is a 1.2 TSI petrol with 90 kW. The transmission features a modern seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The sporty look continues in the interior. Individual elements are also finished in steel-grey and moon-white. It goes without saying that the students used one of the best sports steering wheels ŠKODA has to offer, and the 1400-Watt sound system offers a fantastic music experience. 

    The ‘Trainee Car’ project once again demonstrates the high quality of ŠKODA’s vocational training, and the importance of combining theoretical education with practical experience. The ŠKODA Vocational School offers young adults three- or four-year training programmes in technical subjects. The students graduate with an apprenticeship diploma or NVQ level 3 respectively. There are currently 13 training courses, on which 880 full-time trainees are enrolled. Some 12.5 per cent of these apprentices are young women. In addition, 65 current employees are supplementing their qualifications at a post-graduate level. The ŠKODA Vocational School in Mladá Boleslav was established in 1927. Since then, almost 22,000 students have completed their training there.

    Training young people is a key part of the Czech car manufacturer’s social responsibility. The training is free; moreover, students are paid for their work during their apprentices. After successfully completing the training, ŠKODA offers all graduates a permanent job.

    Source: SKODA

  • Skoda Fabia R5 is Ready for the Road

    The latest Skoda Fabia R5 is ready for its debut in the Czech Republic. This is by far the best vehicle, that Skoda team has ever built after the legendary Super 2000 model. After the successful 2014 season, Skoda prepares for the upcoming 2015 competition with full force. And with a monster like the latest R5 model, we all expect even greater results and higher achievements.

    The driver will be the well-known for his skills Jan Kopecký (CZ) and he will be taming the latest R5 for the 50th anniversary of the famous Rally Šumava Klatovy. The Skoda team plans to test the overall performance of the car on real rally competition and starts right away at the Czeck Rally Championship (MCR)

    The debut is arranged for the native Czech Republic audience, but the R5 will be competing at some rounds of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) an the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC)

    The cabin of the R5 will continue to be occupied by the famous Czech duo even after the debut. Jan Kopecký and his co-driver Pavel Dresler will compete with the car at the Rally Sumava Klatovy. The race celebrates its 50th anniversary and features 12 special stages, that include a special 150 km against-the-clock race.

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    And for all Skoda maniacs out there we present some known and some unknown facts:

    The Fabia R5 is based on the Super 2000 model. At the presentation of the car, which was on the 15th of April, lots of journalist had the chance to try the R5, just to be put on their places by Jan Kopecký and Esapekka Lappi, when the two professional drivers took the journalists for a ride.

    In fact, the Skoda Fabia R5 engine is built from scratch. And in addition, the 1.6-Liter turbo engine was built by synergy with the Volkswagen group.

    So, tell me, do you know something interesting about the Skoda Fabia R5?

    2015 Skoda Fabia R 5
    2015 Skoda Fabia R 5
    2015 Skoda Fabia R 5

    Source: Skoda

  • Fabia R5 Comes With Full Force

    Skoda Fabia R5The fearful and  highest authority in motorsport, the International Automobile Federation (FIA) gives Skoda Fabia R5 the green light. The innovative rally car is based on the Super 2000 model, which, as we all know, is the most successful rally car Skoda ever built. In fact, with the Fabia R5, Skoda marks its 114th year on the rally road.

    The Fabia R5 is really a heaven for the high-tech maniacs. The model is geared with a 1.6-Liter turbo engine, which is a big difference, compared to the 2.0-Liter at the Super 2000 model. The redesigned powerplant works in full harmony with the five-speed sequential transmission to bring boosted performance for the four-wheel drive machine.

    Since the start of the project, the Skoda team invested more than a year time, 15 months, to be precise, to bring a fine-tuned and redesigned proud heir of the Super 2000 model, that, with a lot of hard work is finally approved by FIA.

    In fact, the Fabia R5 is already tested by some of the best rally drivers, and went throughout 10,000 kilometers and different road conditions and locations, that include Czech Republic, Austria, Germany, Italy, France and many more.  The Skoda team now can proudly say that the R5 machine has passed every single test.

    We remember the successful 2014 season for Skoda and now, with a vehicle like the R5 we expect even better coming up season.

    2015 Skoda Fabia R 5
    2015 Skoda Fabia R 5
    2015 Skoda Fabia R 5

    Source: Skoda 

     

  • Fastest Skoda Octavia Ever Produced to Debut in Geneva

    Skoda Octavia RS 230 is showing revolution in company’s design language and it will be debuting at the Geneva Motor Show this March. The top of the range model will be an example not only of roominess combined with comfort, safety and efficiency, but most importantly of sports-oriented driving experience. And we are almost sure that we won’t be disappointed when we see the car in its full glory in the Swiss city.

    The new special edition is inspired by the racing legacy of Skoda and this is visible not only through its sports-related exterior design elements, but also though it’s interior. Of course, the most substantial feature of this car is its turbocharged powerplant.

    As the name suggests, Octavia RS 230 will produce no less than 230 horsepower. In fact, this is the first ever model created by Skoda, which will be equipped as a standard with an electronically controlled differential front axle lock. It will play an important role in dynamic cornering.

    The 230 horses (or 169 kW) come directly from the two-liter gasoline engine, which is also responsible for the breath-taking acceleration time. Precisely, the car needs only 6.7 seconds for the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h. The top speed stands at 250 km/h.

    These numbers make the model the fastest Octavia ever produced in company’s history. After the Geneva debut, Skoda has decided to introduce the vehicle on the market. In other words this means that we will see its launch in the dealership in June this year.

    2016 Skoda Octavia RS 230
    2016 Skoda Octavia RS 230

     Source: Skoda

  • 2016 Skoda Superb is Fully Revealed!

    The new Skoda Superb is here! The world premiere of the car happened today at the Forum Karlín in Prague. The the new car displayed a revolutionized design, generous dimensions, innovative safety assistance systems, a focus on the environment and comfort. As a matter of fact the company claims that this is the best Skoda model ever produced. This is the third-generation Superb, which keeps the powerful characteristics of its predecessor, but also incorporates brand new design language inspired by the VisionC show car.

    To go intro details, one of the major changes was in the wheelbase that has been increased by 80 mm. At the same time the front vehicle overhang is 61 mm shorter than before. The front features striking grille and distinctive headlights, the sides appear dynamic and elegant and are “supported” by large wheels.

    At the back, the car features new two-part, broad and narrow taillights that incorporate LED technology. At the same time, crystalline elements provide the taillights with additional luminosity.

    Inside, the cabin has been entirely redesigned with highlight on horizontal lines. This gives the already spacious interior an even more generous feel. Clear shapes, precise workmanship and the use of high-quality materials are all featured.

    Furthermore, the new Superb is brand’s first model offering adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) with Driving Mode Select. Auxiliary heating, heated seats, wireless heated windscreen and heated washer jets as well as rain/light sensor are some of the standard features.

    The new Superb comes with the latest generation of Park Assist, which will help drivers automatically drive in and out of parking spaces. The car also features a rear-view camera for the first time, while the traditional handbrake is replaced by an electric parking brake as a standard.

    There is a total of four infotainment systems based new for the Superb, but more importantly the engines offered in the range now deliver up to 30 per cent lower fuel consumption. Superb GreenLine for instance needs only 3.7 l per 100 km (76.4mpg) and emits 95 g CO2 per km.

    The direct-injection turbocharged engines are based on MQB technology. The range features five TSI petrol and three TDI common-rail diesel units. All powertrains have Stop-Start technology and brake energy recovery as standard. The petrol engines have a power output of between 92 kW (125 hp) and 206 kW (280 hp), while the diesel ones – between 88 kW (120 hp) and 140 kW (190 hp).

    Safety is ensured by the standard Electronic Stability Control with Multi-Collision Brake, Front Assist with Emergency Brake, electronic Tyre Pressure Monitor, seven airbags, and five three-point automatic seat belts with fastening alerts as well as safety headrests. There is also the option of Speedlimiter.

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    2016 Skoda Superb
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    2016 Skoda Superb
    2016 Skoda Superb
    2016 Skoda Superb
    2016 Skoda Superb
    2016 Skoda Superb
    2016 Skoda Superb
    2016 Skoda Superb
    2016 Skoda Superb
    2016 Skoda Superb
    2016 Skoda Superb
    2016 Skoda Superb
    2016 Skoda Superb
    2016 Skoda Superb
    2016 Skoda Superb
    2016 Skoda Superb

    Source: Skoda 

  • Skoda Teases Upcoming Superb for the Last Time [VIDEO]

    Skoda just released four teaser images and a video showing partially the upcoming Superb model. This is actually the third time that the company is giving us some hints, and in our opinion this means that the changes will be big. The current pictures show what a great precision Skoda has used in the creation of this car. Precisely, the pics show its crystalline lights, sharp edges and lines as well as its striking new design observed from the top.

    The elegant design of the new Superb is indubitable, exuding the superiority of the car in the automotive mid-class. The design details presented in the images below demonstrate the highest precision and a near-perfect finish. And as you can see, there is much of attention paid to the smallest detail.

    Skoda has again counted on the clear geometry as well as the striking contoured surfaces, sculptural shapes and elegant lines from the front to the rear. ‘Take a look at the lights of the Superb, they are example of sharpness due to their accurate cut, precise workmanship, use of geometrical shapes and the three-dimensional contours.

    The flagship will have its world premiere in Forum Karlín in Prague on 17th of February, meaning tomorrow. So there are literally hours to wait until we see the car in its full glory! In fact Skoda Superb has been the flagship of the brand since 2001. Up to date, this car has made it as one of the most popular vehicles in its class.

    httpv://youtu.be/Mflh89dJLr4

    2015 Skoda Superb Teaser
    2015 Skoda Superb Teaser
    2015 Skoda Superb Teaser
    2015 Skoda Superb Teaser

    Source: Skoda 

  • Skoda Updates Superb SE Business Model

    Skoda has updated the equipment of the Superb SE Business model, which will now feature more goodies at no additional cost. The upgraded version of the car now comes with full leather upholstery and heated front seats as standard, thus adding more comfort and convenience to its characteristics. Next to the new equipment, the occupants and driver will also enjoy the benefits of the already abundant standard kit in the Superb.

    Precisely, it includes premium features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, satellite navigation, DAB radio, dual-zone air-con, power-fold door mirrors, cruise control, trip computer, Bluetooth and an umbrella in the rear door.

    Superb SE Business is currently offered in two variants: either a hatchback or an estate. It is powered by the efficient 2.0-litre diesel engine, producing 140 hp (103 kW). The hatchback features as a standard manual transmission, while the estate model is equipped with DSG-transmission.

    Thanks to the latter the car shows low carbon footprint, emitting only 109 grams per kilometer. The model also offers excellent practicality and 633 litre boot.

    SE Business suite of vehicles includes not only the Superb range, but also company’s Octavia and Yeti models. It is specifically designed to offer corporate customers comprehensive specification, class-leading space and versatility.

    Source: Skoda

  • Skoda Reveals Superb’s New and More Spacious Interior

    Skoda has released the first image of the interior of the third generation Skoda Superb. The initial impression is that this vehicle expresses whole new dimension with its spaciousness and elegance and the attention to detail paid. It is visible that it is comfortable throughout thanks to the extreme roominess and fine materials used. It seems that with this vehicle Skoda is once again showing its design capabilities and emotional power.

    2015 Superb offers the combination of spaciousness, functionality and design in a one-of-a-kind manner. The interior is also an expression of the new design language of the brand, which was introduced with the VisionC show car at the Geneva Motor Show last year.

    Now it is time for the Superb to bring these innovations to series production. With this interior the designers aim to create a superior inner space, with a more contemporary, elegant and sophisticated look.

    They have achieved this by expanding the dimensions of the car and bringing the qualities of higher-class vehicles into the automotive mid-class. Of course, this step will set new standards in the segment and we can’t wait to see what other brands will do to compete with these.

    Given the previous information about the 2015 Superb and its exterior we must say that it has been entirely redesigned. The car has completed the final test series in Southern Europe, and its premiere will happen on 15th of February in Prague. The market launch in Europe is expected in the summer months.

    Source: Skoda

  • Is Skoda Bringing Revolution to the Familiar Design Language?

    Since Skoda has announced the reveal of the next generation Superb model in February, we were wondering whether there will be some sort of changes in its design. Today, the company has revealed the next teaser image of the famous model and it clearly shows some innovations and changes in the familiar design language. The new sketch shows an expressively designed saloon “full of class and passion”.

    In other words, the design is sophisticated and at the same time elegant, dynamic, contemporary and expressive. The flagship car is undoubtedly inspired by the Skoda VisionC concept.

    As it is visible from the sketch, the new Superb will add large wheels and gently rearward-sloping roof line. It will include clear geometry, strikingly contoured surfaces, sculptural shapes, precision and elegant lines. As if it was made from one piece.

    The model is about to make an expressive impact on design of the mid-class segment due to its muscular look. Skoda has disclosed that these unique shapes and the entire design philosophy, on which the car is based, can be also found in the interior.

    The vehicle will be built on Volkswagen’s MQB technology. This is how the Czechs company will bring about qualities from the higher vehicle classes into the automotive mid-class. Furthermore, Skoda also promises that the car will offer the best values in terms of comfort, infotainment and connectivity, safety, fuel-efficienvy, consumption and performance.

    Rumors say that 2015 Superb will shed 75 kg off and it is likely to be powered by the with 1.4-liter petrol engine. The unit will probably produce around 125 horsepower (92 kW).

    The third generation model is going to make its world premiere in Prague in February next year. Then it will be introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in March, while the market launch is scheduled for the summer of 2015.

    Source: Skoda

  • Skoda Teases Once Again 2015 Superb

    Are you interested into seeing more from the third generation Skoda Superb? Because we have three more photos showing more details of the car. After we reviewed the released spy shots, which preview an expressive design, now it is time to make some space for the official teasers and sketch. All in all, the pictures speak of an appearance which is influenced by the VisionC concept.

    They also display that the vehicle is in sedan form but featuring a coupe-like profile. At the front of the Superb we see the iconic for Skoda radiator grille and the unmistakable headlights. Probably they will be highlighted by LED daytime running lights.

    There is not much to say, because the information is scarce, but the third-gen model will be built on Volkswagen’s MQB technology. Furthermore, Skoda is also promising that the car will offer the best values in terms of comfort, infotainment and connectivity, safety, fuel-efficiency, consumption and performance.

    Rumors say that 2015 Superb will shed 75 kg off and it is likely to be powered by the with 1.4-liter petrol engine. The will produce around 125 horsepower (92 kW).

    We can say that Superb has been entirely redesigned. More importantly, it has recently completed the final test series in Southern Europe. The premiere of the new Superb will happen on 15th of February next year in Prague. The market launch in Europe is scheduled for the summer months, while the first deliveries – for the autumn.

    Source: Skoda 

  • Production Launch For the New Skoda Fabia Estate

    Skoda-Fabia-CombiThe new Skoda Fabia Estate is expected to set new benchmarks in terms of eco-friendliness, connectivity, practicality, convenience and spaciousness. The entirely reworked third generation model is the most famous one in its range.

    The small car establishes new standards in relation to fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. It really sets some exclusive results because the vehicle consumes up to 17% less fuel than the second-generation model. Which is an advancement really. Yet, the most economical version will be the new Fabia Estate GreenLine which will be introduced in the second half of 2015. Its consumption is estimated at 91.1mpg combined and CO2 emissions of 82 g/km.

    Back to the Fabia Estate now. The car offers advanced safety, comfort and infotainment systems thus including the innovative MirrorLink technology which is able to project smartphone apps, like sat-nav, on the infotainment system screen. Another new functional ‘adoration’ is the SmartGate technology. Using it, the driver will be able to access the information on the vehicle and to display and save it on his or her smartphone via special apps.

    Exteriorly, the Skoda is highlighted with some dynamic and edgy proportions which demonstrate a subtle interaction between light and shadow. This interplay results in underlining the rigid appearance of the Fabia Estate. What is more, despite its size, the car conveys more than enough space for up to five passengers which brings sufficient comfort. The boot has the largest capacity in its segment at 530 litres (1395 litres with the rear seat folded down).

    The new Skoda Fabia Combi will be officially launched in January 2015, with a UK launch happening in March.

    Skoda Fabia Combi
    Skoda Fabia Combi

    Source: Skoda

  • First Spy Shots of Third-Gen Skoda Superb. Is this the Best Skoda ever?

    New-Skoda-Superb-THUMBWe have just received a couple of pictures showing the design of the future Skoda Superb. These photos obviously show the car covered in camouflage but still – its expressive design is visible. As we can see, the Superb model has been completely redeveloped and it has recently completed the final test series in Southern Europe. This is the flagship model in Skoda’s range and we suspect that it will also offer new proportions, space, innovative technology, driving dynamics and more quality.

    This will be the third-generation Superb. It will come to offer highest functionality with a better package. What we have understood so far is that the amount of space and boot size has grown and they are to set a new benchmark in the segment.

    The vehicle will be built on Volkswagen’s MQB technology. This is how Skoda will bring about qualities from the higher vehicle classes into the automotive mid-class. Furthermore, the Czechs company also promises that the car will offer the best values in terms of comfort, infotainment and connectivity, safety, fuel-efficienvy, consumption and performance.

    The premiere of the new Superb will happen in the middle of February next year in Prague. Two weeks after that it will be shown at the Geneva Motor Show. The market launch is scheduled for mid-2015 in Europe and the first deliveries are about to happen in the autumn of the same year. The question left unanswered is: Are we to see the best production Skoda model?

    Source: Skoda