What's the news?
Skoda has three new models ready for the Geneva Motor Show - the new Superb, the Octavia RS 230 and the Fabia Monte Carlo. All three will be on display when the show opens to the public on 5th March.
The new Superb was unveiled recently in Prague and as expected it takes design cues from the VisionC concept and is built on the Volkswagen Group's MQB architecture. As well as generous interior room, Skoda promises 29 'Simply Clever' design details.
Notable features include three-zone climate control, a wirelessly heated windscreen and electrically operated boot that can be opened with a 'virtual pedal' under the back bumper. New petrol and diesel engines provide up to 20 per cent more power while using up to 30 per cent less fuel.
The Octavia RS 230 has 230hp, enough for a claimed 0-100km/h time of 6.7 seconds and a 248km/h top speed; it is billed as the fastest Octavia to date. Standard equipment includes an electrically controlled front differential 'for more dynamic cornering'. Sales of this special edition are set to start in June.
Based on the latest version of the company's supermini, there is a new Fabia Monte Carlo too. Available as a hatchback or estate it gets sporty looks thanks to black exterior detailing and 16- or 17-inch wheels. The interior gets a sporting look too with new seats and steering wheel, while sports suspension is available as an option.
Anything else?
A traditional feature of the Superb was an umbrella in the left rear door; the new model continues this practice but this time there are two, one in each front door.