The Volkswagen subsidiary Skoda, is betting big on its future launches. Skoda has experienced an 8.1 percent global sales growth to 5,65,600 units this year. The company is planning to renew its entire model line up in the next three years. In the coming year, Skoda is all set to launch its fifth generation Skoda Octavia, which is the successor to the car known to us as the Skoda Laura in India. The next generation Octavia is ready for its world premiere at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show in March. The Skoda Octavia is based on the new VW Group’s stretched version of MQB platform resulting in an increase of length by 90 mm over its predecessor and increase in width by 45 mm, while the wheelbase has grown by 108 mm.
The new design language of Skoda features a large wing-like grille and clear, simple and extremely sharp lines running through the body. Skoda has planned new fuel-efficient four-cylinder 1.4-litre TSI engine producing 140 BHP with cylinder deactivation in the partial load range and a renovated 1.8-litre producing 180 BHP. Skoda will offer a re-tuned 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine churning out 150BHP and 180 BHP. Skoda will also introduce the Octavia RS variant, which is likely to feature a petrol turbo engine producing 210 BHP and also a rugged Scout version. A plug-in hybrid version of the Octavia is not expected before the end of 2014.
Apart from the Skoda Octavia, the company will also introduce the revamped flagship Skoda Superb featuring more equipment and an engine update in mid-2013. The completely new flagship Skoda Superb boasting all-new design language is expected to be seen in 2015 with Combi and Scout variants following later in 2016. At the end of the next year, we will see a refreshed Skoda Yeti with grownup looks and the new Skoda Rapid too. The all new MQB based Fabia is also expected in 2014, with a Combi variant. A 4.7 meter, MQB based midsized SUV is being expected too, with optional all-wheel and front-wheel drive versions. It seems like Skoda is going to fire up all the segments in the market soon.
