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The Škoda Octavia Combi RS has been awarded the coveted 2024 Golden Steering Wheel in the mid-sized car category. In a first step, readers of German “Auto Bild” and the country’s largest-selling national Sunday newspaper “Bild am Sonntag” voted Škoda’s bestselling model series’ sporty range-topper into the top three out of 16 cars in this category. A jury of experts then subjected these three finalists to a challenging test drive on the German Lausitzring race track. This victory marks the Czech car manufacturer’s ninth Golden Steering Wheel win. Škoda Auto CEO Klaus Zellmer accepted the accolade at yesterday’s awards ceremony in Berlin.

“Škoda always strives to give our customers more than they expect, and this illustrious award from Auto Bild and Bild am Sonntag readers and the expert jury reflects that ambition. I’m grateful. Our bestseller Octavia is a true icon of our brand, consistently scoring points for typical Škoda virtues: spaciousness, practicality, and an excellent
price-performance proposition. These characteristics have helped make the Octavia Combi the best-selling estate car in Europe last year and in the first half of 2024. The fourth generation of the model continues on this path, with the Octavia Combi RS as the sportiest version. I’m honoured to have driven it up onto the awards ramp!”


Klaus Zellmer, Škoda Auto CEO

Octavia Combi RS triumphs over 15 competitors
This year saw 78 new cars compete for one of the coveted Golden Steering Wheel awards. Each manufacturer was able to nominate up to three models. The readers of “Auto Bild” and “Bild am Sonntag” then decided which of these would ultimately make it into the final round with expert test drives on the Lausitzring. Vehicles competed in seven different categories. 16 new models entered the field in the mid-sized segment. The Škoda Octavia Combi RS wowed readers with its overall package and was awarded a ticket to the finals at the Lausitzring. During the demanding test drives, the bestselling model series’ sporty range-topper also impressed the 21-strong jury of racing drivers, journalists and celebrities with its driving characteristics. The judges included rally world champion Sébastien Ogier and motorsport legend Hans-Joachim Stuck, a former Formula 1 driver and Le Mans winner. The vehicles had to score points in numerous areas such as brake feel, acceleration, agility, steering and many more.

Škoda Octavia Combi RS: successful overall package delights readers and customers
The Octavia Combi RS offers 195 kW (265 hp) of power. It has a 7-speed automatic DSG transmission and delivers a top speed of 250 km/h. Its turbocharged four-cylinder petrol unit comes from the EA 888 engine family. The top version of Škoda’s bestseller, which has sold over seven million units to date, features black exterior accents and the RS Design Selection for the interior. The equipment includes LED Matrix beam headlights, heated sports seats and a modern infotainment system incorporating ChatGPT for enhanced voice assistant functionality. Representing an excellent value proposition, the Octavia Combi RS is equally suitable as a comfortable fleet vehicle and as a versatile family car.

Ninth Golden Steering Wheel in total for Škoda
The first Golden Steering Wheel was awarded by “Bild am Sonntag” in 1976. In 2009, the German Sunday paper started awarding the prize in collaboration with the “Auto Bild” car magazine. This year’s success for the Octavia Combi RS marks Škoda’s ninth victory in the automotive competition. The Czech car maker received its first Golden Steering Wheel for the first-generation Fabia in 1999, with the successor repeating this feat in 2007. The second Octavia generation won in 2004, while the second-generation Superb received the trophy in 2008. In 2017, the Karoq left behind its competitors and in 2019, the Kamiq was honoured with the coveted award. In 2021, the Golden Steering Wheel went to the Enyaq, followed a year later by its coupé variant, the Enyaq Coupé RS.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

Škoda Auto India unveils the all-new Škoda Kylaq, the Czech brand’s first model in the popular sub-4-metre segment, which accounts for nearly 50% of sales in the Indian car market. The Kylaq SUV is the first model in India to adopt elements of Škoda’s new Modern Solid design language. It is powered by an efficient 1.0 TSI engine and features more than 25 active and passive safety features as standard. The latest addition to Škoda’s line-up, developed and produced locally for the Indian market, will hit the roads in early 2025 with a very competitive price tag of INR 789,000 (around EUR 8,700).

“The Škoda Kylaq is our first sub-4-metre SUV, designed in India and for India as a new entry point to our brand. India is key to our internationalisation plans, the world’s third-largest car market, and SUVs make up 50% of new vehicle sales. We want the Kylaq to welcome new customers who are looking in this popular and fast-growing segment. Adding to its appeal, the Kylaq marks the debut in India of our Modern Solid design language, with new visual accents. It also beckons with a wide choice of variants, colours, features and a standard package of over 25 active and passive safety technologies. At a very competitive starting price of INR 789,000, the Kylaq is the most accessible Škoda model in India.”


Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto

Perfect choice for everyday explorers in the city and beyond
Combining compact dimensions, a spacious interior, superb handling characteristics and 189 mm of ground clearance, the Kylaq is perfectly equipped both for trips around the city and off the beaten track. The Škoda Kylaq is 3,995 mm long, 1,783 mm wide and 1,619 mm tall with a generous 2,566 mm wheelbase. Equipped with a 1.0 TSI engine delivering 85 kW and 178 Nm of torque to the front wheels, the Kylaq offers a choice between a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. It reaches a top speed of 188 kph, and with the manual option, accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in just 10.5 seconds.

“The Škoda Kylaq is our third offering based on the MQB-A0-IN platform, developed by our teams in India with comprehensive support by our colleagues in the Czech Republic for Indian customers. From the outset, this platform was designed to accommodate a sub-4-metre car like the Kylaq. This SUV is built on four key pillars: comfort, quality, global design language, and safety. That’s why the Kylaq has been rigorously tested across varied terrains, altitudes, and weather conditions. It will lead our presence in India’s fastest-growing and most competitive segment.”


Johannes Neft, Škoda Auto Board Member for Technical Development

Reinterpretation of familiar Škoda lines with Modern Solid design language
The all-new Škoda Kylaq represents a milestone in the brand’s history as the first-ever sub-4-metre SUV and the first Škoda model in India to adopt elements of the brand’s new Modern Solid design language. Among its signature features is the shiny black grille with 3D ribs, which replaces the familiar Škoda radiator grille at the front. Also new is a bold lower front spoiler in aluminium optics.

Aligning with the Modern Solid era, the headlights feature slim lines and a minimalist, purposeful design. They reinterpret the typical four-eye Škoda SUV face and use LED technology exclusively across all variants of the Kylaq. While the narrow upper segments of the headlights serve as daytime running lights, position lights and indicators, the larger lower modules provide the important low and high beam functions with crystalline-designed LED elements.

The Kylaq’s sides feature clean, modern lines, robust cladding around the wheel arches and sills, and high ground clearance, giving it a confident SUV stance within compact dimensions. A hexagon pattern along the side and rear further enhances its design. The model is available in five paint finishes, with the striking Olive Gold making its debut in the Kylaq.

Advanced safety systems across all variants
With a comprehensive suite of advanced active and passive safety systems, the all-new Škoda Kylaq ensures a high level of occupant protection at all times. Standard across all variants are 25 active and passive safety features, including six airbags, Multi-Collision Brake, Roll Over Protection, Motor Slip Regulation, Electronic Differential Lock, XDS+, Anti-lock Brakes, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, and Electronic Stability Control, among others. Select variants come equipped with over 35 safety features, such as cornering lights, automatic headlights and wipers, Hill Hold Control, and tyre pressure monitoring.

Simplicity and spaciousness inside, including the largest boot in the segment
The interior of the all-new Škoda Kylaq is characterised by simplicity, clean lines, new sustainable Design Selections and spaciousness. Leading its segment, the Kylaq’s boot offers 446 litres of storage, which expands to 1,265 litres with the rear seats folded down. There are also numerous Simply Clever storage options, including a dedicated stowage space for the parcel tray, maximising the use of the boot’s impressive capacity. Additional storage is provided in all four doors and the centre console. Moreover, the Kylaq comes with bag hooks in the boot, Smartgrip bottle holders, coat hooks, ticket holders in the A-pillar, and a phone holder in the back pocket.

Infotainment – Digital interface
The Škoda Kylaq features a central, 10.1-inch (25.6 cm) infotainment display, boasting a clear, intuitive interface and graphic design. It connects wirelessly to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and also supports wireless charging. The driver’s 8-inch (20.32 cm) Digital Cockpit provides a clear and intuitive overview of all key driving data, including the speed, tyre pressure warning, cruise control and other useful information.

Features tailored for India
The Kylaq introduces several segment-firsts, including six-way electric seats with ventilation for the driver and front passenger. Paired with Auto Climatronic, these ventilated seats provide optimal comfort in a market that faces both extreme heat and cold. Select variants also feature an electric sunroof, a highly desired feature among Indian consumers. Additional offerings include cruise control, steering-mounted paddle shifters with the six-speed automatic and leatherette seats. The interior is available in a choice of single or dual-tone designs.

Tested to the moon and back
The Kylaq has been rigorously tested across more than 800,000 kilometres of Indian terrain – equivalent to over 20 trips around the Earth’s circumference or the distance to the moon and back. Testing included altitudes from sea level to 3,000 metres and temperatures ranging from -10°C to +85°C. To ensure top quality, the Kylaq’s polymer parts spent two years exposed to open-air weather conditions. Additionally, 100 random samples underwent intensive water tests, facing 25-30 litres of water per minute/m² at angles up to 16 degrees to confirm zero water ingress, even in extreme monsoon conditions.

Built with a focus on sustainability
The Kylaq is manufactured at the Chakan plant, where 30% (18.5 MW) of the facility’s power is generated from solar energy. The company aims to increase this to 75% by 2026. Additionally, the plant is a water-positive facility, returning more water than it consumes. With over 660,000 trees planted, it has earned both Zero Waste to Landfill and Zero Liquid Discharge certifications. The Kylaq itself incorporates sustainable materials, such as a bamboo-fibre-infused pad with a textile finish, creating a unique speckle effect on the dashboard.

Made in India for India
Developed and manufactured in India, the all-new Kylaq is Škoda Auto’s third SUV in the Indian market, joining the Kodiaq and Kushaq. The Kylaq is specifically designed for the sub-4-metre category – a segment unique to India and highly popular, holding nearly 50% market share. This compact SUV is built on the localised MQB-A0-IN platform, which also supports the Kushaq SUV and Slavia sedan.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

The Škoda Felicia was introduced in October 1994 as a modern five-door hatchback successor to the Favorit. Six months later, the practical estate variant followed. It was the first car developed in collaboration with the Volkswagen Group after joining forces with Škoda in 1991. Between 1994 and 2001, more than 1.4 million Felicia models were produced, with the car also achieving success in motorsport.

On 26 October 1994, the world premiere of the Škoda Felicia took place on Prague’s iconic Charles Bridge. Production of the new model had already started in September at the Vrchlabí plant, with the Mladá Boleslav factory following suit on 17 October 1994. The Felicia became the first car developed after the Volkswagen Group acquired a stake in Škoda in 1991, utilising its technology and components. That granted Škoda access to the Group’s equipment and engines, as well as modern safety and comfort features, contributing to the Felicia’s remarkable commercial success.

Dawn of a new era
The Felicia model range emerged from a comprehensive modernisation of the previous Škoda Favorit. The Felicia featured a new design, with the five-door hatchback being 40 mm longer and 15 mm wider than the Favorit, which also increased the boot capacity by 21 litres to a total of 272 litres.

The base engine was a 1,289 cc petrol four-cylinder, available in two power outputs (40 kW and 50 kW). In 1995, a more powerful 1.6 MPI engine (55 kW) and a naturally aspirated 1.9 D diesel engine (47 kW) were introduced. Thanks to close cooperation with the Volkswagen Group, modern features were introduced to the Felicia throughout its production, including ABS, up to four airbags, power steering, air conditioning, an onboard computer, heated front seats, and leather upholstery. The Škoda Felicia was named Car of the Year in the Czech Republic in 1994.

Body variants: practical and fun
In June 1995, the range of body styles was expanded to include the practical estate model, measuring 4,205 mm in length and offering 447 litres of luggage space. In August 1995, the Kvasiny plant began producing utility versions – the Pickup and Vanplus. Additionally, based on the Pickup, more than 4,000 units of the Škoda Felicia Fun were produced for leisure purposes. This unique vehicle, in its distinctive yellow colour, featured an unconventional 2+2 seating arrangement, with a fold-out bench on the truck bed for rear passengers.

In February 1998, a major facelift was introduced, aligning the car’s exterior with Škoda’s design language at the time, which had been established by the larger Octavia model (in production since 1996). With this update, the Felicia’s length increased by 28 mm, or 32 mm for the estate version, and new body colours and additional equipment options were also introduced.

Special editions and motorsport success
Throughout its career, the Škoda Felicia was offered in a variety of special versions and editions. In 1995, the top-of-the-range Laurin & Klement trim line was introduced for the first time with this model. A year later, the Atlanta special edition was released in honour of the Summer Olympic Games. Other notable editions included Sport Line, Color Line, Excellent, Magic, Family, and Mystery, the latter featuring a motif based on the Prague Astronomical Clock. When the final Škoda Felicia rolled off the production line in June 2001, the total number of units produced reached an impressive 1,401,489 vehicles.

The Felicia proved its robustness, durability, and versatility in motorsport as well, competing in the World Rally Championship between 1995 and 1997, where it regularly topped the overall standings. The Škoda Felicia Kit Car was powered by 1.3, 1.5, and later 1.6-litre four-cylinder engines, with the latter tuned by the Škoda Motorsport team to deliver up to 174 horsepower. Over the course of its rallying career, the Škoda Felicia Kit Car earned a reputation for reliability and excellent handling – much like its standard production counterparts, which continue to serve faithfully to this day.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

The non-profit educational institute 42 Prague held its first international hackathon from 11 to 15 October, bringing together competing teams from various countries to explore innovative ideas and solutions for the Škoda Connect and MyŠkoda apps. The winning team, Škoders from 42 Heilbronn campus, was awarded for their project ‘interactive range map for electric vehicles after charging’. This hackathon followed similar events where Škoda Auto gathered programmers to create digital solutions in the fields of sustainability and IT.

“Innovative digital services play a crucial role in enhancing the entire customer experience in and around the car. This is why we place great emphasis on our digital platforms and apps. It’s not just about an integrated and intuitive user experience; we always aim to offer our customers something extra, such as our Pay to Park or Pay to Fuel services. Congratulations to the winners of this event and thank you to all the hackathon participants for their creativity and imaginative solutions.”


Holger Peters, Škoda Auto Board Member for Finance, IT and Legal

Competition shaped by the educational principles of the non-profit educational institute 42 Prague
The first international hackathon organised by the non-profit educational institute 42 Prague focused on a personal approach, creativity, and collaboration. More than 50 specialists from the Prague branch and other campuses from the 42 Network worldwide participated in the competition, including those from Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, Heilbronn, Paris, and Rome, as well as Gyeongsan in South Korea and the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi.

The assignment was completely open, with the goal of enhancing the functionality and features of the Škoda Connect and MyŠkoda apps. Participants were divided into teams of three to five members, supported by mentors – experts from Škoda Auto. The results were evaluated by an expert jury consisting of Škoda Auto representatives responsible for the development of the MyŠkoda and Škoda Connect apps and other connectivity and infotainment applications.

The winning team was Škoders from the German campus 42 Heilbronn, who came with a project to implement an interactive electric vehicle range map, which will allow users of the Škoda Connect and MyŠkoda apps to monitor their car’s range in real time and in accordance with their current consumption, and thus efficiently plan their next charging stop.

The non-profit educational institute 42 Prague part of a global education network
Škoda Auto established the non-profit educational institute 42 Prague in 2022 as the third project within the Volkswagen Group’s educational network. This year, around 500 prospective applicants participated in four month-long selection boot camps, with 210 being accepted – the highest intake to date. The network of these schools now includes 54 campuses in 31 countries worldwide, spanning the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Australia, with more than 21,000 students.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

With the all-new Škoda Kylaq, Škoda is set to unveil the next phase of its product campaign in the Indian market on 6 November 2024. The compact SUV will expand Škoda’s SUV
line-up in India, joining the Kodiaq and Kushaq models. With the Kylaq, Škoda will be entering the popular sub-4-metre segment, which accounts for nearly 30% of the Indian car market and is among the fastest-growing segments in the country. The Kylaq features elements of the new, global Modern Solid design language. It boasts a modern, bold, and robust look, proven Škoda driving dynamics, and uncompromising safety features. After the Kushaq and Slavia models, the Kylaq is the third Škoda model locally developed and produced in India, the brand’s largest market outside Europe.


“It’s a very special moment for our team as the Kylaq nears its world premiere in India. Known for its versatility, the MQB-A0-IN platform was designed to accommodate both larger models like the Kushaq and Slavia, as well as the sub-4-metre Kylaq. We have maintained outstanding driving dynamics, top-level safety, and proven quality. Additionally, the Kylaq features hot-formed steel in the front crash module for class-leading passive safety. With a spacious, comfortable interior and first-in-class six-way adjustable, ventilated seats, the Kylaq will be at the forefront of our presence in India’s most competitive and fastest-growing segment.”


Jiří Dytrych, Head of Product Management at Škoda Auto

Kylaq’s bold design to attract a new generation of customers
Škoda Auto India has shared glimpses of the all-new Kylaq ahead of its debut on 6 November 2024. The Kylaq features elements of the new, global Modern Solid design language. Modern Solid combines robustness, functionality and authenticity while conveying a sense of safety and strength.

The Kylaq boasts the high ground clearance and ample wheel space typical of an SUV, ensuring effortless handling on rough roads. The model’s bold fenders give it a commanding presence on the road, while signature Škoda design elements like refined daytime running lights and a hexagon pattern on the sides and rear add to the vehicle’s distinctive look. At the Covered Drive event, the compact SUV showcased a special camouflage designed by Harun Robert in collaboration with Škoda fans and in celebration of Škoda’s 24 years on the Indian market. The design reflects Indian cultural motifs and colours, just like the car’s name, which is inspired by Mount Kailash and the Sanskrit word for crystal.

Meeting regional needs: A compact SUV engineered for versatility and safety
Measuring 3,995 mm in length with a 2,566 mm wheelbase and 189 mm ground clearance, the Kylaq is equally suited for city streets and exploration off the beaten track. It is powered by a 1.0 TSI engine delivering 85 kW (115 hp) and 178 Nm of torque and offers the choice of a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Equipped with numerous assistance systems, including a multi-collision brake and six airbags as standard, the Kylaq provides comprehensive active and passive safety. It has undergone extensive testing over 800,000 km across various Indian terrains – from urban environments and highways to hilly and rough roads. This testing spanned temperatures from -10°C to +85°C and 3,000-metre elevations, ensuring the Kylaq is reliable and durable under diverse driving conditions.

Developed and produced in India: Third model based on the MQB-A0-IN platform
Built on the robust MQB-A0-IN platform shared with the Kushaq and Slavia, the Kylaq benefits from a base that has achieved five stars in Global NCAP tests for both adult and child occupant protection. The MQB-A0-IN platform, introduced in 2021, is central to Škoda Auto India’s strategy. Developed collaboratively by teams in India and the Czech Republic, it focuses on high localisation, low ownership costs, and short lead times. This is the first platform developed by the company outside of Europe and is tailored to the Indian market.

Sustainability: Solar-powered production and greater use of natural materials for the interior
The Kylaq embodies the brand’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. Manufactured at the 18.5 MW solar- powered plant in Pune, the compact SUV features eco-friendly materials, including bamboo fabric for several components and cabin upholstery.
The Czech carmaker had its best sales year in India in 2022. Over 100,000 cars were sold across 2022 and 2023, underscoring the company’s success in the Indian market. The Kylaq’s launch marks another step forward for Škoda Auto’s in India, combining sustainability, innovative design, and a strong connection to Indian customers.

Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com