• Fabia
      • Fabia Hatch
        Fabia Hatch
        Featuring the very latest in Volkswagen Group technological and safety advancements
        • SmartLink to sync your car and smartphone
        • Rear View Camera
        • Front Assist with City Emergency Brake

          Disclaimer: Fuel consumption figure shown is a combined figure as per ADR 81/02 for 66TSI manual.

        • luggage305l /1125l
        • fuel4.8l/100km
      • Fabia Wagon
        Fabia Wagon
        Featuring the very latest in Volkswagen Group technological and safety advancements
        • SmartLink to sync your car and smartphone
        • Rear View Camera

        • Green Tech for improved fuel economy

          Disclaimer: Fuel consumption figure shown is a combined figures as per ADR 81/02 for 66TSI manual.

        • luggage505l /1370l
        • fuel4.8l/100km
  • Rapid
      • Rapid
        Rapid
        ŠKODA’s versatile compact car
        • Sporty freshness and dynamic elegance
        • A spacious, attractive interior with stylish three-spoke steering wheel
        • 17” Black Alloys and LED daytime running lights (part of Image Pack)​​

          Disclaimer: Fuel consumption figure shown is a combined figures as per ADR 81/02 for 1.4L 92kw DSG

        • luggage384l /1349l
        • fuel4.9l/100km
      • Rapid Monte Carlo
        Rapid Monte Carlo
        Exciting stylish urban dweller with compact body
        • Black designed elements, panoramic roof and tailgate with extended glazing

        • 17" alloy wheels in a glossy black design

        • Sports seats in a black/red combination, 3-spoke sport steering wheel

          Disclaimer: Fuel consumption figure shown is a combined figures as per ADR 81/02 for 1.4L 92kw DSG

        • luggage384l /1349l
        • fuel4.9l/100km
  • Octavia
      • Octavia
        Octavia
        A high performance family car in a class of its own
        • A powerful and fuel efficient engine​
        • ​Innovative comfort features and 5 star ANCAP safety rating
        • Adaptive Cruise Control now standard across the entire Octavia range

          Disclaimer: Fuel consumption figure shown is a combined figure as per ADR 81/02 for 110TDI DSG

        • luggage568l /1558l
        • fuel4.7l/100km
      • Octavia RS
        Octavia RS
        Turbocharge your family drive
        • Powerful 162TSI or 135TDI turbocharged engines ​​​
        • Advanced safety features including 9 airbags as standard
        • Impressive 8" touchscreen satellite navigation

          Disclaimer: Fuel consumption figure shown is a combined figure as per ADR 81/02 for 135TDI DSG

        • luggage568l /1558l
        • fuel4.8l/100km
      • Octavia Scout 4x4
        Octavia Scout 4x4
        Practicality of a family vehicle, with the appeal of an SUV
        • All-wheel drive technology adjusts to changing road conditions
        • Choice of powerful and fuel efficient diesel and petrol engine​s with Green Tech (Stop Start and Brake Energy Recuperation)
        • Uncompromising commitment to safety


          Disclaimer: Fuel consumption figure shown is a combined figure as per ADR 81/02 for 110TDI DSG

        • luggage588l /1718l
        • fuel4.9l/100km
      • Octavia Wagon
        Octavia Wagon
        Not your everyday family wagon
        • More powerful, more fuel efficient engine
        • Innovative comfort and 5 star ANCAP safety rating
        • Adaptive Cruise Control now standard across the entire Octavia range

          Disclaimer: Fuel consumption figure shown is a combined figure as per ADR 81/02 for 110TDI DSG

        • luggage588l /1718l
        • fuel4.7l/100km
      • Octavia RS Wagon
        Octavia RS Wagon
        Turbocharge your family drive
        • Powerful 162TSI or 135TDI turbocharged engine ​​​
        • Advanced safety features including 9 airbags as standard 
        • Impressive 8" touchscreen satellite navigation 

          Disclaimer: Fuel consumption figure shown is a combined figure as per ADR 81/02 for 135TDI DSG

        • luggage588l /1718l
        • fuel4.9l/100km
  • Yeti
      • Yeti
        Yeti
        Put more in, get more out
        • Features a ​stylish and elegant design
        • VarioFlex rear seat system
        • Uncompromising commitment to safety​​

          Disclaimer: Fuel consumption figure shown is a combined figures as per ADR 81/02 for 1.2TSI 81​kw manual 4x2 / Max. luggage space is with the rear seats removed​​​.

        • luggage321l /1665l
        • fuel5.6l/100km
      • Yeti Outdoor
        Yeti Outdoor
        Introducing the great outdoors
        • Features a new stylish and elegant design
        • VarioFlex rear seat system
        • Uncompromising commitment to safety​

          Disclaimer: Fuel consumption figure shown is a combined figure as per ADR 81/02 for 2.0 TDI DSG 103kw 4x4 / Max. luggage space is with the rear seats removed​

        • luggage321l /1665l
        • fuel6.5l/100km
  • New Superb
      • New Superb Sedan
        New Superb Sedan
        Some see a badge, where others see Superb
        • 162TSI, 140TDI and 206STI engine variants

        • Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Assist

        • Impressive boot space: 625L
        • luggage625l /1670l
        • fuel4.8l/100km
      • New Superb Wagon
        New Superb Wagon
        Some see a badge, where others see Superb
        • 162TSI, 140TDI and 206STI engine variants
        • Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Assist
        • Impressive boot space: 660L
        • luggage660l /1835l
        • fuel4.8l/100km

SKODA Octavia 2013 launch review

27/11/2013
Bigger, better-value Octavia MkIII feels more refined in almost every respect
Publisher: Carsales.com.au
​​What we liked:
>> More refined look and feel
>> Better engines and dynamics
>> Improved cabin and cargo space

Not so much:
>> Still some DSG lag evident 
>> Abstemious interior decor
>> Rear-cabin acoustic resonance 

OVERVIEW
>> Longer, wider and more refined
From its 19-slat grille to its sharp LED tail-lights, Skoda’s third-generation Octavia range is not only a more refined looking vehicle, but one that is also now as mature in its on-road feel as any competitor in its class.

Its longer wheelbase improves cabin and cargo space considerably, while new-generation engines and transmissions, and a revised suspension tune, endow the Octavia with a cultured comportment let down only by acoustic resonance from the open rear structure. 

The Octavia is offered in five-door hatch and wagon bodystyles, which exaggerate rear-end road noise (note that Skoda refers to the hatch as a ‘sedan’ in the third-generation model).

Improved technology levels and more judicious equipment packaging bolster the Octavia’s value proposition considerably; though with cabin decor lacking creativity, the ambience can feel abstemious.

Excusing this trivial and somewhat subjective blemish, Octavia’s report card is otherwise A-grade. It’s a competent vehicle with a solid feel about it and build quality that’s ahead of the curve.

If the previous model came close to attracting your interest, we tip the new one will prove very hard to ignore.

PRICE AND EQUIPMENT
>> Far less complicated
Replacing the previous 32-model hatch and wagon range, Škoda’s new Octavia is available in sedan (actually a five-door hatch) and wagon format. It is offered with a choice of two petrol and one diesel engine (see MECHANICAL), and is presented in three trim grades: Ambition, Ambition Plus and Elegance.

The Octavia range kicks off from $21,690 (plus ORCs) for the manual Ambition sedan -- that’s $3300 less than the previous entry-spec Octavia 90TSI -- and tops out at $36,740 (plus ORCs) for the top-shelf Elegance wagon.

Ambition models are fitted with a trip computer, front and rear foglights, daytime running lights, 16-inch Tecton steel wheels (with matching spare), Swing four-speaker audio system, Bluetooth telephony, audio streaming, air-conditioning, power windows/mirrors and cloth upholstery.

An option package dubbed Travel Pack is also available on Ambition models for $1300. It includes rear parking sensors, cruise control, four additional speakers (for a total of eight), a front-centre armrest and 17-inch Denom alloy wheels (with space-saver spare).

Stepping up to the mid-grade Ambition Plus -- and in addition to / instead of those features found on the Ambition grade -- we find Passenger Protect Assist and Driver Activity Assist safety systems, 17-inch Denom alloy wheels (with space-saver spare), a Bolero touch-screen eight-speaker audio system, cruise control and rear parking sensors.

Finally, on the top-rung, is the Octavia Elegance. In addition to / instead of those features found on the Ambition Plus, this model includes as standard static cornering front foglights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers and a coloured multi-function display.

Top-grade models also get 18-inch Golus alloy wheels (with space-saver spare), a Columbus eight-speaker touch-screen audio system with sat-nav, 64GB hard-drive and voice control, plus dual-zone climate-control, folding side mirrors, front parking sensors and leather upholstery.

Depending on the grade, optional equipment includes an electric tilt and slide sunroof, combination cloth and leather upholstery and 18-inch Alaris alloy wheels (with space-saver spare).

Both Ambition Plus and Elegance models are further offered in combination with an optional Tech Pack for $3900 on Ambition Plus models and $3300 on Elegance models.

This adds adaptive cruise control with Front Assist and City Emergency Brake, bi-xenon headlights with active cornering function, washers and LED daytime running lights, plus static cornering function front foglights, LED tail-lights, rain-sensing wipers (Ambition Plus only, already standard on Elegance), Driving Mode Selection, Automatic Parking Assist with front and rear acoustic parking sensors, keyless entry, push-button ignition with alarm and apremium German Canton 10-speaker sound system.

Skoda has further bolstered the value of its new Octavia range with the introduction of capped-price servicing, which sees selected models receive scheduled servicing from just $269.

All models are further offered with drive-away pricing, as listed below, with wagon variants attracting a $1350 premium across the line-up.

No Octavia variants are offered with a reversing camera, which motoring.com.au believes will become available with the facelifted model in due course.

2013 Škoda Octavia pricing (plus on-road costs):
Octavia Ambition 103TSI sedan -- $21,690 ($23,990 DSG)
Octavia Ambition Plus 103TSI sedan -- $24,490 ($26,790 DSG)
Octavia Elegance 103TSI sedan -- $32,190 (DSG only) 
Octavia Elegance 132TSI sedan -- $34,590 (DSG only)
Octavia Elegance 110TDI sedan -- $35,390 (DSG only)
Wagon variants add $1350 

2013 Škoda Octavia drive-away pricing:
Octavia Ambition 103TSI sedan -- $22,990 ($25,290 DSG)
Octavia Ambition Plus 103TSI sedan -- $26,790 ($29,090 DSG)
Octavia Elegance 103TSI sedan -- $35,490 (DSG only)
Octavia Elegance 132TSI sedan -- $37,990 (DSG only)
Octavia Elegance 110TDI sedan -- $38,790 (DSG only)
Wagon variants add $1350

MECHANICAL
>> Spoilt for choice
Like many newer-generation mid-size Volkswagen Group models, the Octavia is underpinned by VW’s MQB (or Modularer Querbaukasten) platform. The modular transverse architecture allows the Octavia to readily accept a variety of Volkswagen-sourced engines, which in some markets include as many as eight four-cylinder turbocharged petrol and diesel variants.

For Australia, the spec sheet is limited to just two petrol units and one diesel, though this will change when Octavia RS and Octavia Scout models arrive next year. All current variants are front-wheel drive with engine sizes ranging in capacity from 1.4 to 2.0 litres, as detailed below.

At the lower capacity end of the Octavia engine range is the 103TSI petrol. Like most in the Volkswagen family, this engine is named for its output (in kiloWatts) and injection method.

The turbocharged four-cylinder displaces 1395cc and delivers 103kW at 5000rpm (4500rpm for wagon variants) with 250Nm available from 1500-3500rpm. Accelerating to 100km/h in 8.4 seconds and with a top speed of 215km/h, the 103TSI consumes 5.2L/100km on the combined cycle when optioned with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The 103TSI is the only drivetrain option in the Australian Octavia portfolio to be available with a six-speed manual transmission, and then only in Ambition grade. Manual gearboxes may also be offered with the Octavia RS and Octavia Scout when they arrive in Q2 and Q4 2014 respectively.

At the middle of the current Octavia range sits the 132TSI. This turbo-petrol four-cylinder displaces 1798cc and offers 132kW at 6000rpm and 250Nm from 1250-5000rpm. Hitting 100km/h in 7.4 seconds, the larger petrol engine boasts a top speed of 231km/h and a combined-cycle fuel economy figure of 5.9L/100km.

Like the 103TSI, the 132TSI operates on 95 RON (or higher) premium unleaded petrol. It is offered exclusively in conjunction with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Finally, at the top of the range, is the sole turbo-diesel offering, the 110TDI. Displacing 1968cc the four-cylinder oiler develops 110kW at 4000rpm and 320Nm between 1750-3000rpm. It is said to accelerate from standstill to 100km/h in 8.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 215km/h. Combined-cycle fuel consumption is rated at 4.9L/100km.

The 110TDI is offered exclusively with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission and is the only model in the range to receive idle-stop and regenerative braking technologies.

All Octavia variants are suspended by a MacPherson strut arrangement at the front with 103TSI and 110TDI variants utilising a torsion beam rear-end. The 132TSI variants use a multi-link arrangement at the rear.

All models are fitted with disc brakes grabbed by single-piston calipers at each corner and are directed by electro-mechanical rack-and-pinion steering. Both petrol and diesel models feature a 50-litre fuel tank.

Models fitted with 16-inch steel wheels are shod with 205/55-series rubber, while 17-inch alloy wheels score 225/45-series tyres and 18-inchers get 225/40-series hoops.

PACKAGING
>> The larger medium car
When measured against the outgoing model, the new Octavia is both longer (+90mm) and wider (+45mm) and, with more space between the axles (+108mm), offers marked increases in interior and cargo space -- especially for rear-seat passengers.

Škoda says the changes have created a total interior length of 1782mm, which it claims as class-leading. Rear knee room is increased to the tune of 73mm and elbow room by 26mm, while rear head room grows to 980mm. Up front, the Octavia extends head room by 8mm, while front elbow room grows by 39mm.

Also best-in-class is the boot volume at 568 litres. This compares to 416 litres for the Ford Mondeo, 545 for the Holden Malibu, 457 for the Honda Accord, 438 for the Mazda6 and 515 for the Toyota Camry.

SAFETY
>> Five-star Škoda
The new Škoda Octavia was awarded a five-star safety score in recent European NCAP testing, and has also received a five-star ANCAP safety score.

In Euro NCAP testing, the model scored particularly highly in adult occupant protection with a 93 per cent result. Child occupant safety received an 86 per cent grade, while pedestrian safety and safety assist technology tied on an above-average 66 per cent.

Škoda made much ado about the new Octavia’s driver aids at the model’s international launch in January this year.

In developing the model it said the improvement of electronic safety systems were “an important goal”, introducing a suite of new technologies including a frontal assist and emergency braking system, lane-keeping assistant, adaptive cruise control, multi-collision braking and automatic brake actuation, self-activating high beam lights, Crew Protection Assistant and a fatigue detection system.

Grade-dependant, the systems listed above are offered in addition to more commonplace electronic driver and supplementary restraint systems including up to nine airbags (depending on the variant), anti-lock brakes and stability and traction control.

ISOFIX and top-tether child seat anchorages are also fitted, as are three-point seatbelts and anti-whiplash head restraints.

COMPETITORS
>> 27 not out
The segment in which the Octavia competes -- Medium car under $60K -- is now home to 27 contenders.

For the Octavia, key rivals include the Toyota Camry (with year-to-date registrations of 18,951), Mazda6 (6637), Ford Mondeo (2625), Honda Accord (2570), Hyundai i40 (2303) and Volkswagen Jetta (2008); though the Kia Optima (1613), Honda Accord Euro (1599) and new Holden Malibu (964) and Nissan Altima (on sale this month) are also moderate threats to sales.

Year-to-date sales for the outgoing second-generation Octavia are at an all-time high with the model achieving 1008 registrations to the end of October. That’s a 20.4 per cent increase on the same time last year.

The polished and well-priced MkIII Octavia is now in a better position than it has ever been to take on the aforementioned rivals, including its cousin, the Volkswagen Passat, which has to the end of October found 2665 homes.

But in spite of its steady sales the Octavia proves it still has a way to go where consumer acceptance and brand awareness are concerned. 

As a vehicle now as competent -- and in some respects even more so -- than the majority of the aforementioned rivals, the Octavia deserves to be cross-shopped, and will likely sell more strongly than ever, provided Škoda can dole out the advertising dollars.

ON THE ROAD
>> Good things, small packages
The Octavia has always had a solid on-road feel and the new model is equally secure. The vehicle’s dynamics offer confident motoring, especially when the road becomes more demanding, and in general the vehicle feels well balanced when pushed through corners with gusto.

The differences between the two rear suspension arrangements isn’t especially obvious when driving sedately and both ride with a similar, slightly firm demeanour. However, push a little harder and it’s obvious the multi-link arrangement has a slight advantage, proving more tenacious during hard cornering and activating the stability control at a later threshold.

As engine selections go, it’s surprising to note the 103TSI (base petrol) engine is perhaps the pick of the litter. It’s a free-revving unit that is happy to provide its torque at a usable level. The DSG transmission does an excellent job of managing the mumbo, though is occasionally caught napping when moving away from a complete stop.

What we didn’t notice in the 103TSI that was evident in the 132TSI engine was DSG lag during roll-on acceleration. Sinking the boot in to overtake saw a couple of moments’ hesitation before the correct gear was selected, which seemed to negate the additional horsepower on offer. In short, the smaller-capacity petrol four is just as competent when push comes to shove.

If, however, you do lots of miles and want that lazy power and excellent economy that only comes from a diesel, then the 110TDI won’t disappoint. It’s not at all lethargic in getting away from a complete stop and builds power with linearity right through to 4000rpm. 

It’s a quiet diesel too, and would suit buyers interested in towing or regularly driving a vehicle laden with family and luggage.

When it comes to driver involvement, the Octavia does little wrong. The electric steering isn’t race-car sharp, but it doesn’t need to be. The assistance is well metered and the feedback sufficient for accurate placement in bends. It’s light at carpark speeds and, when combined with the Octavia’s optional self-parking system, means slipping into narrow parks is a cinch.

The driving position offers sufficient adjustment for most frames and the back seat is large enough to accommodate full-size adults and lanky teens alike. We note that the rear bench offers a lot of thigh support, which is great for adults, but smaller children may be unable to bend their knees over the forward edge, which means we’d recommend taking them with you for a test drive.

If we had one complaint about the Octavia it would be, again, that the level of road noise from the rear of the vehicle is ever-present. It’s a dull resonance that is unlikely to be heard over a boot full of luggage or a backseat of screaming kids. But when you’re on your lonesome cruising the highway it could get tiring.

From a value standpoint the Octavia is a clear-cut winner and as a driver’s car it doesn’t disappoint. I’d just recommend driving as many variants as you can before settling the deal. For once, this isn’t a car where big numbers matter most, which is a good thing for family buyers wanting the biggest bang for their buck.

One of the most handsome wagons on the market; unprecedented value for money; enormous cabin space; loads of features; turbo-four from Golf R; good ride and handling; plenty of new tech.
More expensive than Volkswagen's top-shelf Passat Alltrack (but more fun too); fuel consumption is high when you're on it.

Reviewed by: Anthony Crawford
ŠKODA communicates its new, modern design language in the SUV segment. The brand will be showcasing its new show car – the ŠKODA VisionS – at the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show, hinting at how ŠKODA’s future SUV could look.

Author: Mladá Boleslav
ŠKODA's all-new Fabia has claimed the title of Best First Car in the Carsales Car of the Year Awards.
ANCAP today issued a 5 star ANCAP safety rating for the new ŠKODA Fabia. ANCAP congratulates ŠKODA for this top rating and for the standard it has set in providing Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) as a standard inclusion across the Fabia range.
Reviewed by: Nathan Ponchard
The all-new ŠKODA Fabia ups the sex appeal of ŠKODA's smallest model with Gen Y-baiting technology, tasteful customisation, and class-leading safety.
Reviewed by: Andrew MacLean
Smart-looking city car also introduces smartphone tech to Aussie roads
Reviewed by: Craig Duff
CarsGuide rating: 4 out of 5 stars

ŠKODA has made a serious pitch for the crown of best-value city car, launching a bigger and better Fabia hatch and wagon with pricing from $15,990 driveaway.

Reviewed by: Tim Beissmann

Caradvice Rating: 8.5/10

Launch Review

Motoring.com.au Rating: 89/100

So how do you go into the market and offer your product when your brand is not really well known? The answer is simple (or “Simply Clever” in Skoda speak): build your vehicle to compete with the front-runners in the pack and make it thousands of dollars cheaper to buy!

Voted Number 1. Skoda Octavia Ambition 103 TSI
THE benefit of hindsight has allowed Redbook to hone Skoda's three-year retained value ratings from the highs of when the brand returned to Oz, to more believable numbers. Back then, Skodas were a Gold Star sure-thing.

The TopGear verdict: 8/10​
Great value, dynamically excellent, well finished, and space efficient – the new Octavia RS is a winner. With more power, some aural drama, and better steering it would be nudging a nine.

March 2014 - The new Octavia RS is a continuation of the current model offensive of the Czech automaker, ŠKODA. The new RS is the fastest production Octavia of all time. From April 2014, the third generation RS will enter the Australian market in sedan and wagon versions. Both models are equipped with powerful yet efficient engines, and boast sophisticated design as well as innovative technology. Furthermore, the new RS models offer all of the ŠKODA Octavia’s outstanding features: functionality, space, safety, innovative comfort assistance systems, and excellent value.​
Evolution: ‘ŠKODA VisionC’ – the next stage in the development of ŠKODA design language. Design: Expressive, dynamic, confident, emotional. Concept: ŠKODA develops its first five-door coupé chassis. Characteristic of ŠKODA: Design meets functionality - Coupé with large hatch. Technology: Modern modular technology, low weight and optimized aerodynamics for responsible individual mobility. Environment: already meet the stringent EU2020 emissions standard using conventional technology - 91g CO2/km.
Review - This is the all-new Skoda Octavia vRS, a high performance version of the regular Octavia available as either a hatchback or estate.
Parkers rating: 4.5 out of 5
Spectacular coupé design study, new Octavia variants and greater model diversity.
ŠKODA presents the best-selling Octavia in Geneva; now with CNG drive. Bivalent engine runs on natural gas or petrol. Environmentally-friendly: only 5.4 m3 (3,5 kg) CNG per 100 km (97 g CO2/km). Refuelling king: up to 1,330 km with natural gas and petrol.
ŠKODA delivers 80,900 vehicles to customers (January 2013: 69,500). Best January ever; manufacturer enjoys continuing growth in 2014. Strong growth in Europe and record deliveries in China. ŠKODA on the Move: Design and model campaign moves into the next stage.
IT’S chips or straws, a toss-up between the petrol DSG and the diesel manual versions of Skoda’s Octavia RS, due in Australia next month. The turbo twosome promise sporty motoring, VW Group quality, distinctive styling and, relatively, a discount sticker. Backing the RS sporting claims, the badge first appeared on a Skoda 130 rally car in 1975, then was affixed to an Octavia 16 years ago. The maker is keen to uphold this connection with the latest crop, which doesn’t overdo it on the exterior trappings the way some wannabes do. But for the plus‒size alloys and red brake calipers, they could almost pass for Q cars. Skoda reckons the RS will account for better than 10 percent of Octavia sales.
Indian premieres - The completely revised ŠKODA models at the 2014 New Delhi Motor Expo. Superb and Yeti with new ŠKODA designs, fresh interiors, innovative technology and top features. Indian market launch for Superb and Yeti in 2014, production in Aurangabad.
Evolution: Design Study ‘ŠKODA VisionC’ the next stage of development in ŠKODA’s design language. Design: Expressive, dynamic, emotional. Concept: ŠKODA takes on first five-door coupé body design.
ŠKODA displays four vehicles at various stages of restoration in Paris. From the 90 year old L&K 210 to a fully restored ŠKODA Superb. Trade fair premiere for the unique streamlined ŠKODA 935. Fascinatingly rare ŠKODA children’s car from 1940.
Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm celebrate a convincing victory at the Rally Latvia. Wiegand/Christian in fifth place.
Esapekka Lappi/Janne Fern lead Rally Latvia at the halfway stage. Sepp Wiegand/Frank Christian in fifth after an afternoon comeback.
Readers of ‘Auto Motor und Sport’ vote new ŠKODA Octavia best compact car among imported cars in Germany. Fourth victory in a row: ŠKODA Superb once again comes top in import rankings in mid-class category. ŠKODA Fabia makes it into top 3 in small car category.
The successful Fabia Super 2000 remains the car of choice in 2014. Development of the new car takes priority.
EurotaxGlass study: ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback beats competitors in residual value comparison tests in four European countries. ŠKODA’s young compact successfully launched in the markets.
ŠKODA delivers 920,800 vehicles to customers in 2013 (2012: 939,200). Powerful final sprint with the best December in corporate history: 70,000 deliveries (December 2012: 66,200 deliveries, up 5.8%). ŠKODA model campaign proves its strength. For the first time ŠKODA’s European market share grows to over 4%. China is once again ŠKODA’s strongest individual market in 2013 with 227,000 sales. Product campaign continues: a new model every six months on average.
 ŠKODA acclaimed as winners of the Manufacturers’ Championship in the APRC and works drivers Kopecký/Dresler officially crowned European Rally Champions.
ŠKODA Fabia R 5 to be ŠKODA’s new racing car. The successor to the Fabia Super 2000 rally car will arrive on the scene in 2015.
A successful conclusion to this year’s ŠKODA environmental action programme ‘For each car sold in the Czech Republic, ŠKODA plants a tree’.
Peter Anderson road tests and reviews the new 2014 Skoda Octavia at its Australian launch.
Publisher: CarsGuide.com.au

Modern top-level production logistics is the cornerstone of ŠKODA vehicle production. ’Simply Clever’: New systems simplify processes and protect the environment. The right part in the right place at the right time, now even quicker.
ŠKODA  AUTO has just manufactured its 1,500,000th vehicle at the Kvasiny plant, with the jubilee honours going to a ŠKODA Superb.
Golden October: ŠKODA’s best October of all time. ŠKODA grew worldwide by 7.5% to 83,000 sales in October 2013. 768,700 customer deliveries in the first ten months.
Extensively revised ŠKODA Yeti rolls off the production lines at the Kvasiny plant. Two Yetis from one: ŠKODA Yeti and ŠKODA Yeti Outdoor. New distinctive design, fresh interior, innovative technology features.
ŠKODA duo Lappi/Ferm triumph with a comfortable lead. Perfect end to a year full of title wins for ŠKODA.
​ŠKODA duo Lappi/Ferm also impressive in the ERC final in the Alps. A lead of 43.7 seconds ahead of final day of Rallye du Valais.
​Esapekka Lappi and his co-driver Janne Ferm hope to secure a spot on the winners’ rostrum for ŠKODA in the final of the FIA ERC season.
The perfect final: ŠKODA also clinches the manufacturers’ title in the APRC. Prestigious triple triumph in front of enthusiastic crowds in China.
Gaurav Gill has put yet another feather in the ŠKODA cap for the current season by winning the drivers’ category in the Asia-Pacific Rally Championship before the season is out.
ŠKODA delivered 685,000 vehicles between January and September 2013. Nine-month sales revenue well over seven billion euros. Sound result: operations after third quarter at 371 million euros. Operating profit increases by 8.8% in third quarter.
The factory-backed team ŠKODA MRF is optimistic ahead of the grand final of the Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC).
Bad luck for ŠKODA driver Sepp Wiegand: the promising German driver had to retire on the final day of Rally Spain, just when a podium finish was within reach. 
Sepp Wiegand is on course for a podium finish in his ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000 in Rally Spain.
Sixth WRC rally entry of the year for the German team in the Fabia S2000. Tricky rally with asphalt and gravel tracks to start in front of Barcelona cathedral.
Esapekka Lappi and his co-driver Janne Ferm put in a strong recovery for ŠKODA at the 55th Rallye Sanremo, finishing in second place.
Safety first: ŠKODA racing talent Esapekka Lappi and his co-driver Janne Ferm lie in sixth place after the first day at the 55th Rallye Sanremo.
ŠKODA global deliveries to customers up by 3.3% to 86,000 cars in September 2013; January to September – 684,900 vehicles. Strong growth in Europe – up 9.4%; ŠKODA’s market share increases. Deliveries to customers in Czech Republic up by 20.1%.
Jury acknowledges Prof. Dr. h. c. Winfried Vahland’s personal contribution to economic cooperation between Czech Republic and Germany. Prestigious award given to individuals from both countries since 1994. Ceremony on 9 October in Prague with high-ranking representatives from politics and business.
ERC welcomes the ŠKODA factory team’s Finnish duo Lappi/Ferm for the second time this year. New European Champion Kopecký will cheer his Finnish team-mates on.
5% higher towing capacity: new ŠKODA Yeti model tows up to 2.1 tonnes. Awards: New ŠKODA Superb Combi 4x4 model voted ‘Tow Car of the Year’ in UK – out of 46 other hopefuls. Double victory: ŠKODA Octavia wins 2 categories in the British awards.
Newly-crowned European champions Jan Kopecký/Pavel Dresler (CZ/CZ) have their sights set on the next title for ŠKODA.
ŠKODA’s European champion elect, Jan Kopecký, has added to his already remarkable record with victory at the 40th Rally Croatia.
› Kopecký: “A dream come true” 
› Seven podiums in seven ERC races for ŠKODA duo Kopecký/Dresler
› In the lead at the end of day one at the Rally Croatia
ŠKODA AUTO is the third-time number one out of all manufacturing companies in the Deloitte CE Top 500. The car producer ranked third highest across all sectors. Comparison of the 500 highest-revenue companies across 18 Central-European countries.
The 2013 European Rally Championship could have its winner with races to spare by the end of the 239.12 kilometres on the asphalt around Poreč.
The 1101 Roadster, Felicia and 1000 MB Rally – three ŠKODA legends at the starting line. ŠKODA’s fourth appearance at the Northern Rally. Sixth anniversary of the Hamburg-Berlin Klassik from 19 to 21 September​.
​Seventh start, seventh podium finish: Jan Kopecký and Pavel Dresler remain on course for the title in FIA European Rally Championship.
​The ŠKODA duo Jan Kopecký and Pavel Dresler (CZ/CZ) are in fourth place after day one of the two-day Rally Poland and are eyeing up a podium finish.
ŠKODA delivers over 64,000 vehicles worldwide in August 2013; January to August: 598,400 deliveries. ŠKODA’s European market share expands. New models successfully launched:  Western European deliveries of new ŠKODA Octavia +12.7% in August.
Youthful ŠKODA compact hatchback gets well-earned attention at the VW Group Night. The first entry of ŠKODA brand to the important segment of compact family hatchbacks. Rapid Spaceback will be launched on European markets from October 2013.
With victory in the bag last time out at the Barum Rally, ŠKODA’s Jan Kopecký and Pavel Dresler (CZ/CZ) will be continuing their hunt for the title in Poland.
Great tradition: ŠKODA 1100 OHC Roadster-classic from the 1950s. ŠKODA Classic is participating again at the fifth vintage car race in and around Bergisch Gladbach. The brand is showing off their sporty genes in 2013.
Two new models for IAA Frankfurt: Brand new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback and redesigned ŠKODA Yeti. Rapid Spaceback: Youthful, compact ŠKODA hatchback. Revised ŠKODA SUV in two design variations: Yeti and Yeti Outdoor.
› Jan Kopecký and Pavel Dresler extend their lead in the ERC
› Third Barum success for Kopecký after 2009 and 2011 wins
› Wiegand/Christian take fourth in works team début
Kopecký/Dresler win all nine special stages, Wiegand currently on fifth place in debut for the works team, Lappi forced to retire following accident.
ŠKODA enters all its top drivers into rally around Zlín. Local heroes Kopecký/Dresler hope to defend ERC lead.
Gaurav Gill takes over the lead in the driver’s championship in the ŠKODA Fabia Super 2000. ŠKODA driver wins all seven special stages of day two.​
A positive end and a lot of valuable experience. Next up: ŠKODA home event, Barum Czech Rally Zlín.
​ŠKODA duo Wiegand/Christian damage their wheel suspension. Their ŠKODA wil be repaired in preparation for Sunday.
​Four special stages won, then problems for Lappi and Gill. Gill wants to score points for Team ŠKODA MRF on day two.
ŠKODA duo Sepp Wiegand/Frank Christian ranked third in WRC 2 category. Matthias Kahle thrills rally fans in legendary 130 RS.​
ŠKODA duo Sepp Wiegand/Frank Christian on course for WRC 2 podium finish. Six special stages (131.36 kilometres) on Friday.
610 km through the most beautiful places in Saxony. ŠKODA with two sports cars, a roadster and a convertible. The three-day classic race starts in Zwickau on 22 August.
Fourth round of the Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC). Successful ŠKODA duo Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm lead overall standings.
Today, the new compact car ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback will be rolling of the production lines at ŠKODA’s main factory in Mladá Boleslav.
 Rally Germany in the region around Trier will be the fifth WRC-2 start this year in the Fabia Super 2000 for Wiegand/Christian.
ŠKODA has been able to increase their market share in Western Europe thanks to increasing customer orders in July.
Ready for the tarmac jungle - The new ŠKODA Yeti for the city.
Room for adventure - The new ŠKODA Yeti for outdoor enthusiasts.
The first ŠKODA with a rear-view camera.
Today sees the first of the latest generation of the ŠKODA bestseller roll of the production lines at the Indian plant in Aurangabad; launch on the Indian market in autumn.
Racing legend Hans-Joachim “Strietzel” Stuck now a Yeti owner. ŠKODA Yeti earns praise from both experts and general public. Stuck, a Volkswagen Motorsport ambassador, also assisted in setup of Fabia Super 2000 race car.
ŠKODA sells 464,600 cars. Sales revenue in the first half of 2013 of around five billion Euros. Operating profit reaches 243 million Euros. Investments increase by 22.1% to 265 million Euros.
3:12.8 - minute lead over Delecour. Ten stage victories on a tricky course. ŠKODA duo Kopecký and Dresler extend their lead in the ERC’s overall standings.
Four stage victories, one success at night. 5.4-second lead going into the second day. ŠKODA pairing Kopecký and Dresler lead in the ERC overall standings.
Certificate with information on the history of the vehicle available for owners. Service from the ŠKODA company archives in Mladá Boleslav.
Three victories and a second place finish in previous ERC outings. ŠKODA duo Kopecký and Dresler lead the overall standings at the halfway point.
Winners receive Bohemian crystal sculptures. 2013 - ŠKODA becomes the tenth time official sponsor of the Tour de France. Fleet of 250 ŠKODAs deployed, including the new Superb as the ‘Red Car’ and many new Octavias.
New ŠKODA Green E Line e-bike expands existing ŠKODA bicycle collection. “Pedelec” combines muscle and engine power, up to 105 km range. Wide choice of ŠKODA cycles for any age and any purpose.
Factory crew Kopecký/Dresler turn their third appearance in the Czech Championship into a third victory. As usual, ŠKODA was the General Partner of the 40th Bohemia Rally.
Third round of the current season of the Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC), ŠKODA leads both the drivers’ and the constructors’ championship.
ŠKODA Motorsport´s Jan Kopecký/Pavel Dresler (factory team) top the standings after Day 1 of the 40th Bohemia Rally.
Esapekka Lappi and Janne Ferm clear leader for ŠKODA, teammates Gaurav Gill and Glenn Macneall second.
ŠKODA presents the new Octavia RS to the public for the first time. World premiere at the ‘Goodwood Festival of Speed’. A sports class of its own; the fastest production Octavia ever.
ŠKODA 1101 Sport, ŠKODA 130 RS and ŠKODA Fabia WRC at the starting line. ŠKODA presents three legends from a 112-year history in motorsports. New ŠKODA Octavia RS celebrates its world premiere at Goodwood. 20th anniversary of the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Best June results in ŠKODA’s history: 87,400 units. ŠKODA’s European market share grew to 4.1% in June. ŠKODA vigorously pursues model campaign in second half of year. Eight new or revised ŠKODA models in 2013 alone.
Jiří Ježek started time trials with ŠKODA support on 10 July. ŠKODA tenth time official sponsor of der Tour de France.
ŠKODA commissions new combined heat and power generation facility in Kvasiny. Three million EUR invested, construction period of seven months. Important measure within the framework of the ŠKODA environmental strategy ‘GreenFuture’.
ŠKODA celebrates production success together with Shanghai Volkswagen. ŠKODA doubles model range in China from three to six models – new Rapid Xin Rui, ŠKODA Yeti and Superb Combi expand ŠKODA’s portfolio. Sales in China to rise to half a million per year.