Skoda Joyster

skoda joyster

Skoda claims that the Joyster heralds the arrival of a sub-Fabia sized model aimed at young, urban drivers

Due to go on sale in 2009, the production model will not only be the Czech firm's first step into the city car market, but also its first three-door model since it joined the VW Group.

The stylish Joyster features a large aeroplane-style wraparound windscreen with blacked-out A-pillars and a bold chrome grille, similar to that on the Roomster supermini-MPV. Inside, the newcomer is equipped with a docking station for a laptop, Internet connectivity, changeable seat covers and removable storage pockets on the chair backs.

Several of these clever features are expected to make it into production. For example, the powerful LED headlamps and the split tailgate - which has a pair of built-in seats that fold out for picnics - are likely to be popular with potential buyers.

Chief designer Jens Manske said: "We wanted to create a young person's car. They are always interested in the latest technology and need practical solutions. The Joyster is very well equipped in that respect."

Meanwhile, the next-generation Fabia is scheduled to go on sale in June next year. The new model will be bigger than the popular supermini it replaces, and is set to offer a more stylish look inside and out. Part of this revamp will include new MINI-style two-tone colour schemes, with the roof painted a different colour to the body.

SKODA SMALL CARS IN INDIA

Skoda to set up manufacturing units for small cars in India

Small cars from Skoda in India soon

Europe’s cars are set to roll out of Indian bases. After Asian majors Suzuki and Hyundai kick started their manufacturing facilities in the country, it is now time for an European player. According to industry sources, Skoda is set to make India its base for manufacturing small cars.

The VW group major has a plant in Chakan near Pune and shall roll out its first Fabia next year. The company has said that it would up capacity from current 50,000 units to 1 lakh units annually and exports are to happen to markets such as Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Myanmar.

With the company deciding to have its key manufacturing facility with high local content, the sales targets have also been doubled to 25,000 units this year from 12,000 units in 2007. The company feels that it shouldmake its Aurangabad facility its local production base by 2010.

Apart from being the manufacturing hub, Skoda is also planning to expand its product portfolio and will introduce a number of new cars in India that will see it entering into new segments such as multi-purpose vehicles (MPV) and the sports utility vehicles (SUV), said a report. The car maker is likely to debut its Roomster multi-utility vehicle by the end 2008. Besides, the Fabia Combi, a longer version of the hatchback, and a new Superb sedan built on parent company Volkswagen's B6 platform will be launched by mid 2009. In 2010, the company will launch the Yeti sport utility vehicle, the report added.

The company is also looking at launching small cars in India to benefit from the lower excise duty regime and enter the market for small cars. To be priced in the Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh range, Skoda's small car will be launched in India before being offered globally, it has been reported.

New Skoda Superb-2008

Skoda is set to storm the upmarket family car sector with the all-new Superb hatchback.
Skoda insiders have confirmed that the new Superb – masterminded by the engineer behind the VW Phaeton - is targeted directly at the new Ford Mondeo



Škoda Auto is going to present the successor to its flagship model at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show – the new Škoda Superb.

Bigger and more versatile

The Superb is loosely based on the same architecture as the VW Passat, and is currently in its final stages of testing around the globe, including late modifications to refinement in Death Valley, California. Despite the notchback appearance, the Superb gets a new, versatile hatchback layout, making it much more competitive in the large family car sector than the old model.

The entry-level engine is likely to be the 138bhp 1.4-litre TSI unit first seen in the Golf. 158bhp and 200bhp 1.8-litre TSI units will make up the rest of the Superb petrol range.

Diesel engines will be switching to a more refined common rail injection system, and the range-topping motors are likely to be V6 petrol and diesel units with the option of four wheel drive. Most models will be equipped with a six-speed manual box, with a DSG autobox on the options list.

A high-performance 3.6-litre V6 4x4 VRS Superb, with just shy of 300bhp, is already understood to be on test.

Skoda Fabia recalled

Skoda has recalled the two petrol variants of its popular hatchback - Fabia 1.2l and Fabia 1.4L to rectify a technical glitch. The problem in the two variants is affecting the fuel efficiency and performance of the car. Several customers had experienced problems with the car and some even complained that the brake pedal became hard, while driving at a high speed.
Skoda has confirmed that it had recalled the car, but blamed “inconsistent fuel quality” behind the step. Due to inconsistent fuel quality in India, Skoda India has done minor change in the software to attain better fuel economy and driving performance, the company said. Skoda officials said they would rectify the problem free of cost. “We are not charging anything for this and customers would just need to spend about 20-30 minutes at the dealerships,” a company spokesperson said. All manufacturers do constant upgradations of their products so that the customer always enjoys the best quality and service, the company further said