Skoda to launch Five new models

Skoda Yeti
Skoda, the Czech carmaker and subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group has decided to launch five new models in India. The first among the five will be the refurbished Superb luxury sedan. The Superb has been a segment leader and Skoda India wants to add more features along with a more fuel efficient yet powerful engine.

The second model that Skoda India is considering to launch is the Rapid, a mid-size executive sedan. The Skoda Octavia which was the carmaker's first model in India has ceased production. Skoda wanted to replace the old work horse with a model specifically designed for India and the result is the Skoda Rapid. The model is still under development and is expected to be launched in the later part of this year. The Rapid is being built on the Volkswagen Vento's platform to reduce costs.

Skoda India's Thomas Kuehl said the carmaker intended to launch new models to increase its market share. Skoda is planning to launch an entry level hatchback below the Fabia and costing between Rs3-5 lakhs. This model is still under development and no further details about the car are available.

The Skoda Yeti is the Czech carmaker's first SUV. This premium model has not been able to generate demand. Hence it is planning to launch a two-wheel-drive version with slightly lesser equipment. The current model costs between Rs.15.35 lakh and Rs.16.73 lakhs and the new model can be expected to cost at least Rs.2 lakhs lesser. The Yeti will also get a diesel engine which was previously not available.

Skoda India is aiming to double its sales to more than 40,000 units this year. The Fabia hatch back has been Skoda's volume selling model. The unavailability of the Octavia sedan might have dented Skoda's sales. However, Skoda is hoping the new Rapid will compensate the absence of the Octavia

Article Published On: Friday, July 8, 2011, 15:40 [IST]
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