As an example of this fast changing world, Skoda recently introduced Sportline versions of their award winning large SUV – the Kodiaq, writes David Miles. I was due to test the 1.4 TSI 150hp turbo petrol powered model, but that was substituted because under the WLTP changes it is due to be replaced by the Volkswagen Group’s new TSI 1.5-litre 150hp, cylinder on demand petrol unit. So a … [Read more...]
Sunday drive: Skoda Octavia vRS 2.0TDI 185 estate
The Octavia C-segment range of five door Hatch and Estate models is Skoda’s best selling model range accounting for 29% of their total UK sales,writes David Miles. The Octavia is available with a wide range of engine options, four TSI petrol units and three TDI diesels with power outputs ranging from 115 to 245hp. There is also the choice of DSG twin-clutch automatic transmissions with six … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: Skoda Rapid Spaceback SE Sport 110ps
Space is a confusing place, and it’s not been helped by the Skoda Rapid Spaceback landing in showrooms. The Rapid hatchback neatly filled a gap in the Skoda range between the Fabia and Octavia but then the Czech car maker added Spaceback, which not an estate but a hatchback as well. From the outset it has to be explained that the Rapid hatchback has a roomier boot but the Spaceback gains … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: Skoda Kodiaq 2.0 TDI 190PS 4×4 7st
The Skoda Kodiaq marked a turning point for the Czech subsidiary of VW as it launched into the burgeoning SUV sector. From its introduction in 2017 the five and seven seat Kodiaq has picked up numerous awards and was followed with a smaller Karoq SUV, which has also been highly praised. It seems as if Europe and its discriminating drivers have suddenly woken up to the brand which built a … [Read more...]
Sunday drive: Skoda Fabia Redline 1.0TSI
Although the demand for compact SUVs is high, the similar sized but less tall supermini hatchbacks are still the UK’s best selling new cars with the Ford Fiesta supermini range still leading the way as Britain’s most popular new car. One of the Fiesta’s rivals is the not so new but cheaper and very popular Skoda Fabia. Other competitors are the very new SEAT Ibiza which uses the … [Read more...]
Sunday drive: Skoda Octavia SE Hatchback 1.0 TSI
Combining a roomy mid-sized family hatchback with a small 1.0-litre three cylinder petrol engine could be a step too far in terms of dull performance and disappointing fuel economy. But it's not so with the latest Skoda Octavia five door Hatchback. That is powered by the Volkswagen Group’s 1.0-litre, three cylinder TSI 115hp turbo petrol engine. Whilst diesel engines and the Octavia in … [Read more...]
Skoda Kodiaq hunts rivals on the SUV sales trail
Yet another all-new model range joins the booming SUV market, this time it is the Skoda Kodiaq range of large five or seven seat, 2WD or 4WD on/off roaders, writes David Miles. Prices start from an eye-catching £21,565 rising through a range of 24 derivatives to £34,050 and deliveries to UK customers start from 6 April. Order books opened last November and the brand has received 30,000 … [Read more...]
Sunday drive: Skoda Octavia Estate Scout
Don’t fancy being one of the latest craze of ‘me-too’ buyers of small medium and large SUVs and Crossovers, but need a bit more security of 4x4 traction, then the new car market offers an increasing number of choices of all-wheel-drive cars and estates. Scouting around a Skoda dealership, or their website, you will come across the Octavia Estate Scout 4x4 five door available with two … [Read more...]
Hotter Skoda Octavia comes for summer
Skoda’s UK new car sales for the first quarter of this year are up by 6.4% to 27,039 units, ahead of the overall market growth and they are going to hot up even more with the arrival of the latest Octavia. This is better news as last year their UK sales dipped slightly due to the run out of old models, like their Roomster compact MPV, and introduction of new models like the highly rated large … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: Skoda Superb Estate SEL Exec 150 2.0TDi
If Santa Claus ever put the reindeer out to pasture he’d probably change his sleigh for a Skoda Superb Estate. It can really swallow up enormous amounts of presents, parcels and suchlike and it does not cost the earth to buy or run so there is more money for the essentials such as his food and drink. The Superb Estate is Skoda’s uncompromising workhorse available in front wheel … [Read more...]