8 February 2011
Anyone who has driven a Skoda in recent times will know that this is a brand which has stepped up to the plate and proven itself as a serious player. Having become a part of the Volkswagen Group in 1991, but only seen on New Zealand roads since 2003, build quality is up there with the best and buyer acceptance continues to grow.
For 2008 Skoda enjoyed a huge 80% growth rate in New Zealand and year to date 2009, Skoda is 52% ahead of the same time last year.
For thirteen years Skoda has ranked in the top five of the JD Power awards and for five consecutive years, from 2004 to 2008 Skoda ranked second behind luxury Japanese brand Lexus in the UK's Auto Express Driver survey.
For 2009, Skoda took the crown away from Lexus, coming in at first place.
The survey of more than 20,000 motorists, ranks cars on reliability, build quality and running costs.
Since becoming part of the Volkswagen Group, Skoda has produced over seven million vehicles, gaining a reputation for offering quality vehicles and good value for money.
First presented at last year's Paris Motor Show, the face-lifted Octavia boasts bolder new headlights, a more robust grille and an enhanced front and rear bumpers
Interior improvements include an upgraded line-up of audio and navigation systems, a new steering wheel and enhancements to the dash and centre console. In addition, new upholstery fabrics have been made available.
The Octavia is offered with 1.9 TDI or 2.0 TDI diesel engines. The entry level 77kW 1.9 TDI comes with either a 5 speed manual or a 6 speed DSG transmission.
The 103kW 2.0 litre TDI version is offered with a 6 speed DSG transmission, while the 125kW vRS TDI has the option of a 6 speed manual or 6 speed DSG transmission.
Pricing starts from $37,490 for the Octavia 1.9 TDI Manual through to $52,990 for the top of the range Octavia 125kW vRS 2.0 TDI DSG.
The new Superb surpasses the already generous interior space of its predecessor.
Interior space is increased thanks to a transverse mounted engine. Overall length is up by 35mm to 4,838mm, width increases by 48mm to 1,817mm and 19mm is added to the rear leg room.
The unique patented TwinDoor tailgate offers extremely practical access for luggage loading. For loading small items, the boot lid can be opened by itself, but for larger cargo, the entire tailgate opens up, complete with the rear window.
This adds benefit on very hot or cold days, when cool or warm air can be lost by opening an entire tailgate when it may not be necessary.
Boot capacity is up almost 100 litres and can now accommodate 565 litres of luggage. With the seats folded, that volume increases to station wagon type capacity, with 1670 litres of available space.
The chassis uses Skoda's modular strategy.
Modules from existing platforms have been combined, adapting them and adding new elements to give the Superb its own driving character. Elements from the existing Octavia (VW Golf) and VW Passat chassis are used.
Particular attention has been given to driving comfort and handling. A McPherson strut front axle with triangulated wishbones is housed in an aluminium structure, and the rear axle is attached to silent blocks made from a combination of metal and rubber.
The overall result is a reduction in weight, improved handling and agility, and making the Superb one of the quietest cars in its class.
Two models are offered, both using a 2.0 litre TDI diesel engine and are named according to their kilowatt output. The entry level produces 103kW and peak torque of 320Nm between 1800 and 2500rpm. Combined fuel consumption for the Superb 103 is 6.8 litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 177g/km are achieved.
The top of the range Superb utilises common-rail direct injection to achieve 125kW of power, with a maximum torque of 350Nm from 1750 to 2500rpm. Fuel consumption for the Superb 125 is 6.7 litres per 100 km and CO2 emission is just 169 g/km. Both engines are mated to a 6 speed DSG transmission.
Standard equipment on the Superb 2.0 TDI 125 is AFS (Adaptive Front Light System).
AFS is a lighting system which literally adapts to the driving conditions. The urban mode is active at between 15 and 50km/h and widens the beam, lighting up the edge of the road.
At 50 - 90kmh, the lighting operates in a normal dipped beam mode, and then from 90km/h on, a motorway function extends the beam to illuminate more of the road ahead
AFS operates with Bi-Xenon headlights and features a cornering light function as well as a rain function which reduces road glare for oncoming drivers in wet conditions.
Standard safety features include nine airbags, including a driver's knee airbag and a comprehensive range of active safety features including ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), resulting in a 5 Star NCAP safety rating.
The Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI 125 beat of fierce competition in this year's AA Excellence Awards to take out the title of Executive Car of the Year.
Towing capacity is rated at 700kg unbraked and 1800kg braked. Pricing starts at $51,990 for the 2.0 TDI 103 to $59,990 for the 2.0 TDI 125.