Škoda Auto, about to release the fourth generation of its ICE flagship model series, the Superb, will once again complement its popular Combi estate with an elegant hatchback. The new iteration of this traditional body variant has grown in length and height and at the same time become even more aerodynamic. Its sculptural Škoda design has evolved further and now features a redesigned octagonal Škoda grille and updated door handles. The wide range of powertrains for the new Superb now also includes a mild hybrid. The interior has been completely redesigned. For the first time in the Superb, it comes with a head-up display and a central infotainment display that has grown in size to 13 inches. The gearshift lever, now positioned on the steering column, makes for a roomier centre console. Below the central display are the new Škoda Smart Dials. These rotary push-buttons, each with a small digital display, allow quick and easy access to many vehicle functions. The interior is marked by sustainable materials; the textiles used are made of 100 percent recycled polyester.

Premiere for mild-hybrid drive
The fourth-generation Superb hatchback is available for the first time with mild-hybrid technology. In the 1.5 TSI entry-level model with 110 kW (150 hp), the four-cylinder petrol engine is supplemented with a 48-volt belt-driven starter-generator and a 48-volt lithium-ion battery. This enables energy recuperation during braking. The energy thus recovered is stored in the battery and can be used to support the internal-combustion engine with an electric power boost, or to allow the vehicle to coast with the engine completely switched off. In addition to the 1.5 TSI, Škoda offers two 2.0 TSI units with 150 kW (204 hp) and 195 kW (265 hp). Like the most powerful diesel, a 2.0 TDI with 142 kW (193 hp), the top petrol unit comes with all-wheel drive as standard. The generous engine roster is rounded off by a 2.0 TDI with 110 kW (150 hp). For the first time at Škoda, all Superb engines are mated to a DSG as standard. All powerplants meet the Euro 6d emissions standard.

Even more space and improved aerodynamics
Compared to its predecessor, the new Škoda Superb hatchback has grown in length by 43 millimetres to 4,912 millimetres and in height by twelve millimetres to 1,481 millimetres. This makes for eleven millimetres more headroom in the front and six millimetres more for rear passengers. Luggage capacity has increased by 20 to 645 litres. Vehicle width, at 1,834 millimetres, and the wheelbase, measuring 2,841 millimetres, have remained unchanged. Optimised air intakes and detailed work on the occupant cell, rear and exterior mirrors have improved aerodynamics, resulting in a cd drag coefficient of just 0.24. The latest iteration of the Superb design language features many of the Škoda brand’s signature sculptural lines.

 

Completely new interior concept and various Design Selections
The redesigned interior of the Superb now features a free-standing central display with a screen diagonal of up to 13 inches. It is complemented by a head-up display, a first for Škoda’s ICE flagship model, and the new Škoda Smart Dials. These are three rotary push-buttons below the infotainment screen, each featuring a digital display with a diameter of 32 millimetres. The Smart Dials provide quick and easy access to many vehicle functions. The redesigned centre console has a tidy, more spacious and organised look, since the gear lever is now located directly on the steering column. The traditional Active, Ambition, and Style trim levels have been replaced by new options: Essence and Selection, complemented by the Sportline and Laurin & Klement versions. Each of these features a unique interior design, blending contemporary concepts with an emphasis on sustainable materials.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

Ahead of the world premieres of the new Kodiaq and Superb generations, Škoda is unveiling their completely redesigned interiors, featuring a digital cockpit, a head-up display and a 13-inch free-standing infotainment display. The DSG gear selector has been moved to the steering column, now giving front passengers more space, while a roomy centre console offers more storage. Enhancing onboard operation, the customisable Škoda Smart Dials allow for easy control. Each rotary push-button provides intuitive access to various vehicle functions, and a digital display ensures a quick, comprehensive overview at any time. In a move toward greater sustainability, Škoda now uses upholstery made from 100% recycled polyester for both the new Kodiaq and Superb.

 

“Škoda interiors stand for intuitiveness, simplicity, customer focus, and smart solutions. Our latest innovation, Škoda Smart Dials, has expanded the intuitive options for controlling the car’s functions, combining the best of both worlds: physical controls and digital displays. The fresh interiors of the Kodiaq and Superb now feature a large, free-standing display, a steering column-mounted gear selector, and an uncluttered centre console. These enhancements have paved the way for a more spacious and cosy interior that not only catches the eye but also offers practicality and genuine added value for our customers.”

Peter Olah, Head of Interior Design at Škoda Auto

 

Innovative new features for even more comfort onboard
Škoda has redesigned the interiors of both upcoming models, including enhancements to the steering wheel, instrument cluster, dashboard, and decorative trim. A Škoda first: the gear selector has moved to the steering column in both models, making it particularly accessible. As a result, the centre console has a tidy, clearly structured layout, opening up additional space for the front passengers. Other firsts in the Kodiaq and the Superb include a head-up display complementing the 10-inch Virtual Cockpit, and a free-standing central infotainment display that is larger than ever, measuring 13 inches diagonally. Also debuting in both models, Škoda Smart Dials are innovative rotary push-buttons that cleverly integrate haptic and digital components for a more intuitive experience.

Škoda Smart Dials: Push-buttons with digital displays
With the introduction of Škoda Smart Dials, the Czech carmaker is taking the proven combination of haptic and digital controls in its vehicles to the next level. This entirely new approach consists of three rotary push-buttons below the infotainment screen, each with a 32-millimetre digital display. These allow quick access to numerous vehicle functions based on the equipment level. The two outer Smart Dials for the driver and front passenger control the interior temperature, seat heating, and seat ventilation, displaying the currently active function. The centre Smart Dial controls up to four different functions, such as the infotainment volume, fan speed, air direction, smart air conditioning, driving modes, and map zoom. The central Smart Dial is configured via the infotainment system menu, and pressing the button switches between functions.

Expanded range of Simply Clever features
The quest for enhanced comfort onboard is evident in the new additions, including the Phone Box with fast inductive smartphone charging capabilities of up to 15 W – and in the Kodiaq, this extends to two phones – paired with an active cooling function. Additionally, passengers benefit from up to four USB-C ports with a power output of 45 W, as well as a convenient 15 W USB-C port on the rear-view mirror. Not to be overlooked, the new Kodiaq is available with ergo seats complete with a pneumatic massage function. Rear-seat passengers will also appreciate a fresh storage compartment in the centre tunnel. In the Superb, a redesigned steering wheel, instrument cluster and decorative trim elements blend seamlessly with enhanced optional massage seats. These now include ten pneumatically controlled massage cushions and an extensive selection of programs, with four-way adjustable lumbar support. Matching the Kodiaq, all heating functions for the seats, steering wheel, windscreen, and rear window can be conveniently managed via a configurable Heaters button in the climate control menu.

Sustainable materials for all textiles and two popular Simply Clever features
Škoda demonstrates its commitment to sustainability by using environmentally responsible materials for all interior textiles, as well as for two iconic Simply Clever features: the umbrella in the driver’s door and the ice scraper. Continuing the approach of other Škoda models, the traditional equipment lines have been replaced by the Design Selections concept: In the Kodiaq, customers can opt for Loft, Lounge, or ecoSuite in Black or Cognac, with textiles crafted from 100% recycled polyester. The leather in the ecoSuite Design Selection benefits from an eco-friendly tanning process using coffee bean processing residues. For the fourth-generation Superb, the Essence trim level includes the Design Selection Studio, with choices for the Selection trim level encompassing Loft and Lounge, as well as the Design Selection Suite in Black and Cognac. The top L&K model extends the offer with the Design Selection L&K Suite in Black and Cognac, boasting leather sustainably tanned using wastewater from olive processing.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

This year marks the 20th staging of the Sachsen Classic rally and the Škoda Classic team is no stranger to the popular competition. The Czech car manufacturer will be fielding seven stunning exhibits from the Škoda Museum built between the 1940s and the 1980s. The one-hundredth rally starts in Zwickau on Thursday, 17 August. The 180+ teams will also venture into Czech territory, allowing spectators to catch sight of the cars near Krásná Lípa. After covering 544 km, the cars will reach the finish line in Dresden on Saturday afternoon.

 

The oldest cars Škoda Auto is entering in Sachsen Classic this year include convertible and roadster versions of the classic Škoda 1101 ‘Tudor’ models, both made in 1948. In keeping with tradition, another iconic Czech model – the open-top Škoda Felicia from 1961 – will be making an appearance, too. The other vehicles will be representing various types of two-door closed bodies: the Škoda 440 ‘Spartak’ showcases an exemplary 1957 competition model, and the timelessly elegant Škoda 1100 MBX DeLuxe (1969) without B-pillars heralded a new era of Škoda cars with a rear engine and self-supporting body. Other legendary models include extended coupés, such as the Škoda 110 R (1971) and the 17-year-younger Škoda Rapid 135.

The Sachsen Classic is one of the so-called one-hundredth rallies, where success is determined not by speed, but by regularity and precision. The 20th staging will see over 180 cars taking part. The first crew will take to the track from the centre of Saxony’s Zwickau on Thursday, 17 August, one minute after noon. The 109-kilometre opening stage will include a time check at the Sachsenring circuit. On Friday, the participants will cover almost twice the distance (215 km), and the third day will bring the historic cars onto Czech territory. Spectators can admire them during the Saturday morning pass through Krásná Lípa. On Saturday afternoon, after conquering 544 km of plains and challenging sections in the Ore Mountains, the successful crews will cross the Sachsen Classic 2023 finish line in Dresden.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

Škoda Auto has expanded its in-car infotainment ‘Offers’ app. Now available in eight markets, the free app offers over 100 discounted items. These range from refreshments and meals to travel and car care, all directly accessible from the user’s vehicle. In addition, special deals are included from the Škoda Auto e-shop. With the rollout of version 5.1, the app’s offerings have broadened to cover a host of services. ‘Offers’ is compatible with all current vehicles equipped with the latest-generation Amundsen and Columbus infotainment systems.

 

Free access to an extensive range of promotions in eight countries
The ‘Offers’ app reinforces Škoda’s commitment to enhancing the driving experience through innovative solutions and convenient on-the-go access. While on the road in a Škoda car, various services and products at discounted prices are just a few clicks away – including free cups of coffee. The ‘Offers’ in-car app uses the infotainment display to show and provide access to these discounts, which are customised to the country or region the vehicle is passing through. The app is available free of charge in the Fabia, Scala, Kamiq, Octavia, Karoq, Superb and Kodiaq equipped with the latest generation of the Amundsen or Columbus infotainment systems. The ‘Offers’ app has now been released in eight markets: the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Germany, Poland, Austria, the UK, and most recently Spain and Finland.

Seamless experience: quick access and easy redemption
Accessing the ‘Offers’ app is as simple as tapping the % icon. Once users have agreed to the terms and conditions and approved their email address, they can browse and select various offers in the app. After choosing a particular offer, users can explore the partner’s website via a QR code or retrieve their unique discount code. This is sent to the approved e-mail address and can also be found in the Messages section of the MyŠkoda app. The discount code can either be scanned by the partner company’s staff at the point of payment or entered during the online purchasing process. Even those without an onboard profile, such as renters who do not have the MyŠkoda app, can still take advantage of the offers. However, these users will find the offers are not personalised, and the details of the respective discount can only be viewed by scanning the QR code on the infotainment screen.

Diverse offerings at your fingertips – from refreshments and tourist services to rentals
With the latest update to version 5.1, the app’s scope has broadened to include more than 100 items at reduced prices, including refreshments, meals, travel, and car care, along with other services. These offerings are provided by external partners or directly from Škoda; the brand’s e-shop lists car maintenance products, discounted tyre sets, air-con cleaning services, and more. The portfolio is consistently expanding. For example, the Prague Visitor Pass, normally only obtainable from information centres, is now available with a 10% discount for tourists visiting the Czech capital. In addition, Škoda users in the Czech Republic and Slovakia have the opportunity to hire an Enyaq at a special rate for weekend trips and test drives. Individual services and availability are subject to the terms and conditions of each partner.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

The second edition of the Tour de France Femmes avec ZWIFT ended yesterday in Pau after eight stages and 956 kilometres. The overall victory went to Dutch racer Demi Vollering. Points classification winner Belgian Lotte Kopecky received the green trophy made of Bohemian crystal and created by the Škoda Design team. For the second year running, the car manufacturer sponsored the world’s largest professional women’s cycling race as the event’s official main partner and vehicle supplier. In this capacity, Škoda provided the organisers with 34 plug-in hybrid and all-electric vehicles, including the Octavia iV, Superb iV and Enyaq iV models, with the battery-electric SUV serving as the lead vehicle, the so-called “Red Car”.

 

“I sincerely congratulate the overall winner, Demi Vollering and all other participants on their impressive performance in this challenging and thrilling competition. The Tour de France Femmes avec ZWIFT is an exceptional event that has an impact far beyond sport: As the largest professional women’s cycling competition worldwide, it helps to draw the public’s attention to this amazing sport while shining a light on equality. We have been sponsoring and supporting this event from the beginning to further foster diversity, equity and fairness, among others. Our commitment to these values is also embodied by our Škoda Enyaq Coupé Respectline, which accompanied the peloton to the finish line.”


Maren Gräf, Škoda Auto Board Member for People & Culture

Points classification winner receives green trophy created by Škoda Design team
Škoda Auto was again a sponsor of the green jersey for the leader of the points classification. Lotte Kopecky finished the tour with the points jersey and received the green trophy created by the Škoda Design team. The crystal sculpture has sharply defined lines that are reminiscent of a bicycle. The precision and technicality refer to the parallels between cycling and automobile construction. The design was brought to life in an elaborate glass-cutting process using traditional methods by crystal specialist Lasvit in Nový Bor.

Cyclists completed a demanding route of almost 1,000 kilometres
During the 956 km route, international riders from 27 countries had to master four flat stages, two hilly stages and one mountain stage, as well as an individual time trial, on their way to the finish line in Pau. After starting in Clermont-Ferrand, they conquered an elevation gain of more than 14,000 metres and two mountain ranges. On the seventh of the eight stages, they reached the highest point of the track at an altitude of 2,110 metres and finished in the Pyrenean Mountain pass, the Col du Tourmalet. The riders were accompanied by 34 hybrid and all-electric Škoda models, with the Enyaq iV serving as the lead vehicle (“Red Car”) for the race director, Marion Rousse.

Driving for fair opportunities: Škoda Enyaq Coupé Respectline
To increase public attention for diversity, equity and fairness in all areas of life, the athletes were accompanied by the Škoda Enyaq Coupé Respectline on the final 22.6 km stage. The purpose of the one-of-a-kind vehicle is to promote the equal and fair treatment of everyone, regardless of origin, nationality, age, gender, gender identity, sex, faith, sexual orientation, or other personal characteristics.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com