ŠKODA finished 2016 with a new sales record: 1,127,700 vehicles were delivered to customers worldwide, which corresponds to an increase of 6.8 per cent compared to 2015. “The record result is impressive proof of the further increased attractiveness of our young and modern model range,” said ŠKODA CEO Bernhard Maier. “Our vehicles’ emotive design, modern technology and many practical advantages are winning over more and more customers. And we will also continue this trend in 2017. The programme consists of eleven new models. In the first half of the year, we are already expecting a boost mainly from our new, large SUV, the ŠKODA KODIAQ, as well as from our comprehensively revised bestseller, the ŠKODA OCTAVIA.”
ŠKODA OCTAVIA RS 245: heaps of power and dynamism
The ŠKODA OCTAVIA RS 245 – with its powerful engine and modern chassis technology including electronically regulated VAQ limited-slip differential – promises the ultimate driving experience. The compact sports car, now with a power output of 180 kW (245 PS), is available as a hatchback and a Combi. The performance data is impressive: from a standing start, it only takes 6.6 seconds to reach a speed of 100 km/h; the top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
The masculine and dynamic appearance of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA RS 245 is emphasised by the new front section with wider radiator grille and the wide honeycomb air inlets in the redesigned bumper. The radiator’s grille and frame trim both come in a gloss-black finish. The redesigned headlights in a crystalline look feature LED technology and the adaptive front light system, AFS, as standard. The fog lights, tail lights and number plate illumination also feature LED technology and a crystalline look.
The wing mirrors and the trapezoid tailpipes are likewise black. Due to the strikingly sporty note of its sports exhaust system, you can even hear that the ŠKODA OCTAVIA RS 245 is different to other models in the range.
As is usual for all ŠKODAs, the car offers above-average interior and boot space. The mainly black interior shines from the roof lining to the footwell with the silver-coloured pedals in an aluminium finish. The RS leather sports seats provide maximum support in fast corners. The front seats bear the RS logo – as do the front door sills. The multifunction sports leather steering wheel with perforated leather and integrated steering wheel paddles (for DSG transmissions) matches the car’s dynamic ambience. The LED ambient lighting in the RS-typical decorative trims immerses the interior in one of the ten colour options. A colour Maxi-DOT display forms part of the instrument cluster.
The ŠKODA OCTAVIA’s top-of-the-range model has a 180-kW (245-PS), four-cylinder, TSI petrol engine under its bonnet. Maximum torque of 370 Nm is achieved between 1,600 and 4,300 rpm. You can choose a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 7-speed, dual-clutch transmission.
Compared to the ‘normal’ models in the range, the sports chassis lowers the body of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA RS 245 by 15 mm, its rear track is 30 mm wider than that of its predecessor, the ŠKODA OCTAVIA RS 230. The standard, burnished gloss-black alloy wheels are 19 inches in diameter. The ESC stability system with Sport mode, as well as the electronically regulated VAQ limited-slip differential emphasise the dynamic character. The same applies to the progressive steering and the optional adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC).
The ŠKODA OCTAVIA RS 245 provides exceptional value for money for sporty and ambitious yet practical, down-to-earth drivers.
ŠKODA OCTAVIA SCOUT: robust off-road look
The ŠKODA OCTAVIA SCOUT comes with distinguishing features: a robust design in an off-road look, a wide variety of uses, powerful, yet efficient engines and all-wheel drive as standard. Like all the current ŠKODA OCTAVIA models, it has a new front section with additional headlights and a modified rear. Its discrete, robust appearance is characterised by special features such as moulding on the bumpers, wheel arches and door sills, silver-coloured underbody protection at the front and rear, 17-inch alloy wheels, as well as a wider rear track. The standard equipment includes the Rough-Road package, LED daytime running lights and the C-shaped LED tail lights.
The ŠKODA OCTAVIA SCOUT also impresses with its interior space – which is particularly generous for the compact car segment – good layout, distinct versatility, a high level of functionality and great driving characteristics. Thanks to the 171-mm ground clearance, a departure angle of 14.5 degrees and all-wheel drive with electronically controlled multi-plate clutch as standard, the five-door car also guarantees driving pleasure when taking the OCTAVIA SCOUT off-road. As standard, the front and rear axle are equipped with an electronic differential lock, which makes pulling away easy on any surface.
Numerous storage solutions in the interior increase its practicality. The heated, three-spoke leather steering wheel with multifunctional buttons, LED ambient lighting in the decorative door trims – which can be set to one of ten colours – illumination of the front and rear interior door handles, special seat covers that are particularly breathable, and heated front seats – all of which come as standard – ensure exceptional comfort.
For the ŠKODA OCTAVIA SCOUT there is a choice of three powerful yet efficient engines. The 1.8 TSI petrol delivers 132 kW (180 PS) and is coupled with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. The 2.0-litre diesel is available in a choice of two different power variants. A 6-speed manual gearbox or a 7-speed DSG transmission are available for the 110-kW (150-PS) engine. The top-of-the-range diesel with a power output of 135 kW (184 PS) is equipped with a 6-speed DSG transmission.
The current ŠKODA OCTAVIA SCOUT can of course be equipped with any of ŠKODA’s new-generation modern infotainment systems. The capacitive touch displays of the Bolero, Amundsen and Columbus systems feature a glass design. The wide range of driver assistance systems sets benchmarks for the competitors. New functions include Trailer Assist, Blind Spot Detect, which warns of any vehicles in the blind spot, and Rear Traffic Alert, which monitors traffic coming from the sides and from behind when manoeuvring etc. Front Assist with City Emergency Brake function has been enhanced with Pedestrian Protection with Emergency Brake function. Park Assist has been further perfected and, when reversing, Manoeuvre Assist complements the rear parking sensors, automatically braking the vehicle as soon as it detects an obstacle and a collision is imminent.
World premiere for the ŠKODA KODIAQ SCOUT and ŠKODA KODIAQ SPORTLINE
ŠKODA’s large SUV is a further highlight on the exhibition stand in hall 2. The spotlight will be on two variants in particular. The ŠKODA KODIAQ SCOUT and the ŠKODA KODIAQ SPORTLINE will be celebrating their world premiere.
The Czech car manufacturer is continuing its campaign in the SUV segment with the new ŠKODA KODIAQ SCOUT model variant. The ŠKODA KODIAQ SCOUT comes equipped with all-wheel drive as standard and emphasises its off-road capabilities both visually and through its technological features. Silver-coloured design details including distinctive underbody protection at the front and rear accentuate its rugged and robust appearance. The new 19-inch alloy wheels specially designed for the ŠKODA KODIAQ SCOUT also contribute to its powerful appearance. There is a choice of two petrol and two diesel engines.
The ŠKODA KODIAQ SCOUT stands out thanks to its distinct design features. With a length of 4.70 m – which remains the same as in the base model – up to seven seats, and the largest interior and boot within its segment, the ŠKODA KODIAQ SCOUT impresses in a number of ways. With its modern design, it represents a successful mix of emotiveness and rationality. At the same time, it highlights its robust and powerful character with special features.
For fans of a sporty appearance, the Czech car manufacturer has designed the ŠKODA KODIAQ SPORTLINE as an elegant and dynamic SUV variant. The exterior and interior are both characterised by specially designed features. There is a choice of four engine versions available for the ŠKODA KODIAQ SPORTLINE: two TSI petrol engines and two TDI diesel engines ranging from 110 kW (150 PS) to 140 kW (190 PS).
The individual design of the ŠKODA KODIAQ SPORTLINE’s exterior and interior emphasises the agility and dynamism of the new model variant above all else. The design reflects the brand’s design identity and represents a good blend of emotiveness and rationality. At the same time, the unique aura of the sporty version is combined with the versatile nature of the ŠKODA KODIAQ. Thanks to a multitude of new details and features such as the sports seats with Alcantara covers, the interior creates an impression of elegance and dynamism. Furthermore, the ŠKODA KODIAQ SPORTLINE comes with features designed to provide pure driving pleasure.
ŠKODA RAPID and ŠKODA RAPID SPACEBACK
The ŠKODA RAPID sets the benchmark for spaciousness amongst its direct competitors. Design and equipment have now been upgraded further. At the front, the bumper’s lower section is new; fog lights shine in a modified design. A refined chrome trim in the bumper’s lower section (standard from the Style trim level upwards) visually connects the fog lights, and the front section appears even wider. The main headlights are now energy-efficient bi-xenon lights and the daytime running lights use LED technology. Light Assist completes the offering and turns on the daytime running lights when the ignition is switched on.
The tail lights, in the C-shape that is typical of the brand, now come with a tinted glass cover, which gives the ŠKODA RAPID’s rear section an even sportier look. Several new designs are available for the wheels and wheel trims. The upgraded ŠKODA RAPID also offers lots of new design features in the interior. You will first notice the decorative inserts in the four doors. The air outlets in the dashboard (from the Ambition trim level upwards), the circular instruments and the control panel for the manual air conditioning and heating have also been redesigned.
The particularly sporty Monte Carlo hatchback comes with LED tail lights as standard and features black roof lining and chrome trim for the air vents in the interior.
1.0-litre TSI engines are available for the upgraded ŠKODA RAPID for the first time. The particularly agile and efficient three-cylinder engines are available in two power versions: 1.0 TSI with 70 kW (95 PS) and 1.0 TSI with 81 kW (110 PS).
In addition to the two 1.0 TSI engines, three more engines are available for the ŠKODA RAPID: a 1.4 TSI with 92 kW (125 PS), a 1.4 TDI with 66 kW (90 PS) and a 1.6 TDI with 85 kW (116 PS).
Occupants in the upgraded ŠKODA RAPID have the option of being ‘always online’ via a Wi-Fi connection. The new ŠKODA Connect services support the driver in many situations and are available for all trim levels as well as for the Amundsen and Swing infotainment systems.
The upgraded ŠKODA RAPID SPACEBACK is presented in Geneva as the particularly sporty Monte Carlo version. Numerous black design elements identify the 4,303-mm-long compact car as an athlete at first glance. These include: the radiator grille, 16-inch alloy wheels in ITALIA design with burnished rims (optional 17-inch alloy wheels), side sills offset in black, black wing mirrors, fog lights with cornering function, tinted rear window and rear side windows (Sunset), black tailgate spoiler and rear bumper in a diffuser look.
Looking at the car’s rear, the longer rear window (now available as standard from the Style trim level upwards) is most eye-catching. Visually, it merges seamlessly into the large tailgate’s upper edge, which is also black. The tinted tail lights match the black accessories.
From the roof lining to the footwell, the colour black also dominates the interior, in part with striking offset features such as the chrome trims around the redesigned air vents in the dashboard. The sports seats are covered in a special, Monte Carlo design fabric (black/grey/red), the three-spoke leather sports steering wheel and the leather gearstick feature red stitching. The pedals are stainless steel, while the decorative strips come in a carbon design. The standard equipment of the ŠKODA RAPID SPACEBACK MONTE CARLO also includes a large panoramic sunroof with a transparent area measuring 1,210 x 780 mm and a manually retractable sunblind. Together with the longer rear window, there is now a glass area that stretches deep into the tailgate.
There is a choice of three petrol and two diesel engines. The particularly efficient and yet dynamic 1.0 TSI with three cylinders is new and comes with 70 kW (95 PS) or 81 kW (110 PS). The 92-kW (125-PS) 1.4 TSI is the most powerful petrol engine. The 1.4 TDI with 66 kW (90 PS) and the 1.6 TDI with 85 kW (116 PS) are the two common-rail turbodiesel engines available.
ŠKODA CITIGO
The revised ŠKODA CITIGO drives up in Geneva with a completely redesigned front section and an upgraded interior. The city runabout, which is available with either three or five doors, impresses with a generous amount of space, an excellent layout, a high level of safety, good handling, new, particularly efficient MPI petrol engines and the attractive value for money that is typical of the brand.
As a result of the revisions, the ŠKODA CITIGO has grown by 34 mm to a length of 3,597 mm. Due to its generous wheelbase measuring 2,420 mm, the interior ensures sufficient space even for the passengers in the rear. The boot capacity of 251 l, which can be increased to 959 l by folding down the rear seats, is one of the largest in the segment.
The completely revised front section features a new bonnet, a new radiator grille shape in ŠKODA’s characteristic design, modified bumpers and upgraded fog lights – a package that creates a fresh, young look. Tinted tail lights (from the Ambition trim level upwards) characterise the modified rear section. In the Style and Ambition trim levels, the roof and the wing mirrors are available in white or black, independent of the body colour.
The headlights feature LED daytime running lights (as standard for Ambition, Style and Monte Carlo – optional for the Active trim level). The fog lights come with an optional cornering function, which lights up the area the vehicle is turning into on junctions with poor visibility. Redesigned 15-inch alloy wheels in silver or anthracite and the new Kiwi Green body colour can be chosen for an individual exterior design.
After the revisions, the ŠKODA CITIGO’s interior is even more refined and functional. The instrument cluster with speed indicator, rev counter and fuel gauge comes in a new design and is available in two different versions. Sports seats ensure good lateral support, radio and telephone can be operated on the optional multifunction leather steering wheel without the driver having to remove their hands. The new Climatronic automatic climate control ensures pleasant temperatures at all times.
A choice of three modern three-cylinder engines is available for the ŠKODA CITIGO – two petrol engines delivering 44 kW and 55 kW, and a natural gas variant offering 50 kW. The front-, transverse-mounted engine with a 1.0-litre capacity drives the front wheels. Despite its small capacity, the powertrain impresses thanks to high torque with low noise levels and high efficiency.
The ŠKODA CITIGO MONTE CARLO has a sporty, rally-style design. It features a lowered sports chassis, front and rear spoilers, and specially designed 15-inch alloy wheels and with its black styling borrowed from motorsports, it evokes memories of the Czech brand’s successful showing at the World Rally Championship. The predominantly black interior with seats that were specially designed for this model also gives a sporty and dynamic impression.
The sporty variant, available with three or five doors, is powered by either a 44-kW (60-PS) or a 55-kW (75-PS) petrol engine. For the CNG variant, a powerful 1.0 MPI engine with a power output of 50 kW (68 PS) is available. The model therefore meets the taste of those customers who like a dynamic design even in cars with smaller engines.
ŠKODA FABIA with new 1.0 TSI engine
The third generation of the ŠKODA FABIA impresses with a dynamic and emotive design, a large amount of interior space, innovative safety, comfort and infotainment systems‚ and numerous ‘Simply Clever’ features. The ŠKODA FABIA MONTE CARLO presented at the Geneva International Motor Show styles itself as the lifestyle-oriented variant with a sporty touch. Besides offset, black body elements, red accents on the sports seats and centre console, sports pedals with a stainless-steel finish, and Black Cube decor, this version provides an extremely comprehensive list of standard equipment.
A new three-cylinder engine is available in two power variants. Thanks to its compact construction and aluminium crankcase, it weighs approximately ten kilograms less than the 1.2-litre engine it is replacing. Its aluminium pistons and the connecting rods are so well balanced that the engine runs in a particularly smooth and refined manner with very little friction. Thanks to an increase in injection pressure to 250 bar, both power variants of the new 1.0-litre engine achieve a reduction in fuel consumption of up to 6 per cent.
The power output of the three-cylinder engine’s entry-level variant is 70 kW (95 PS). Just like its 1.2-litre predecessor, the second engine delivers 81 kW (110 PS); however, its torque, has increased to 200 Nm.
