Tag Archives: Czech

Motorsport

The New Skoda Octavia RS Is Coming February 14

Hot on the heels of the Volkswagen Golf’s facelift, its bigger counterpart from the Czech Republic will get a revision as properly. Skoda dropped design sketches of the brand new Octavia that debuts on February 14. We ought to see the prolonged lineup subsequent week contemplating the teasers depict each physique kinds and the flagship RS.

The actual factor will not look almost as good as this digital drawing. Nevertheless, we discover some attention-grabbing particulars, such because the redesigned daytime working lights extending downward on the bumper. The 2024 Octavia will use next-gen matrix LED headlights with blue inside accents.


Motorsport

The Tatra 613 Mi Long Electronic Was Weird And Awesome In Many Ways

Tatra, a Czech automotive producer that now not builds automobiles, has a wealthy historical past courting again to the late nineteenth century. Known for its distinctive and unconventional designs, the corporate gained fame for producing strong, rear-engined automobiles that defied conventional automotive norms. The Tatra 613 Mi Long Electronic, a variant of the Tatra 613, emerged as a pinnacle of the corporate’s engineering prowess within the late twentieth century.

The unconventionally formed sedan was launched in 1975 as a luxurious sedan with a modern and aerodynamic design that set it aside from its contemporaries. While based mostly on a mannequin from the mid-Seventies designed by Vignale, the Tatra 613 Mi Long Electronic featured within the video on the prime of this web page had a closely modernized inside in comparison with its predecessors. It was launched to compete with the best German luxurious sedans on the time and got here outfitted from the manufacturing unit with a voice notification system, which reported automobile faults and different vital messages. 

One of essentially the most distinctive options of the automotive was its fuel-injected air-cooled V8 sitting on the rear axle. This explicit automobile was assembled in 1993 and includes a 3.5-liter model of the V8 engine with an output of round 200 horsepower. Interestingly, the very same Tatra was listed for sale at $110,000 (2,500,000 Czech Koruna) earlier this yr.

What’s it wish to drive? From the video, you’ll be able to inform the transmission isn’t precisely easy as the driving force struggles to seek out the proper gear, particularly when the engine and gearbox are nonetheless chilly. The sound of the V8 on the again is in contrast to the rest although, creating a really distinctive expertise behind the wheel. The suspension is smooth however the automotive doesn’t bend a lot in corners. 

Only 17 models have been ever produced from this explicit model of the automotive. It might be protected to imagine just some of them are nonetheless alive and, because the reviewer mentions, this may very well be one of many final Tatra automobiles ever constructed. Count us enormous followers of air-cooled V8s (pun supposed) to any extent further.


News

New 2024 Skoda Superb to be unveiled tomorrow

The new 2024 Skoda Superb will be unveiled tomorrow as the flagship model for the Czech brand. It boasts a sleek new design, a revamped interior, and an upgraded technology system.

Preview sketches have showcased the car’s exterior design, highlighting its sleek proportions in both estate and saloon versions. The model takes inspiration from Skoda’s new ‘Modern Solid’ design language, featuring sharper headlights, improved headroom, and enhanced practicality.

The interior of the Superb was revealed earlier this year and has undergone a complete overhaul. The popular model now offers customisable rotary controllers, a new infotainment system, and the use of more sustainable materials.

Buyers will likely appreciate the Superb’s retention of rotary dials. These dials sit below a 13.0-inch infotainment touchscreen and feature a 32mm digital display. They can be ergonomically pushed and offer control over seat heating, interior temperature, infotainment volume, fan speed, air conditioning, driving modes, and zoom on the sat-nav.

Skoda superb saloon

The Superb also comes with additional features such as four USB-C ports, massage seats, four-way adjustable lumbar support, and a gear selector now positioned on the steering column.

The fully revealed Superb, which we have already seen in prototype form, will be available for sale towards the end of 2023. It will offer a choice of petrol, diesel, and hybrid powertrains.

Skoda recognizes the importance of its internal combustion engine (ICE) models during the transition to becoming an all-electric car manufacturer. These models fulfill customer needs as different markets embrace e-mobility at varying speeds.

In addition to the Superb, Skoda will be refreshing its Octavia, Kamiq, and Scala models, all of which will be released by 2026. The second-generation Skoda Kodiaq will also join the lineup.

Featured

Skoda Slavia And Skoda Kushaq Style Variants Get The The 10-inch Touchscreen Infotainment Again


The Czech automaker has also replaced the alloy wheels on the Style variant of the Skoda Kushaq

  • The Skoda Slavia and Skoda Kushaq have now regained the 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which was temporarily unavailable due to a shortage of semiconductor chips. This infotainment system is available in the top-spec Style variants of both models. However, it’s worth noting that the larger touchscreen system was already being offered with the Monte Carlo edition of the Kushaq.

  • Both models in the Style variant now also receive electrically adjustable front seats and footwell illumination. Other common features on both the Slavia and Kushaq include an 8-inch digital driver’s display, a single-pane sunroof, and ventilated front seats. Additionally, the Ambition Plus variant of the Slavia features a built-in dashcam.

  • The Style variant of the Skoda Kushaq now comes with a set of silver alloy wheels, replacing the dual-tone 17-inch alloy wheels. The Monte Carlo edition of the Kushaq still features the 5-spoke dual-tone 17-inch wheels.

  • Both the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq are available with two engine options: a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, and a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

  • The prices for the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq start at Rs 10.89 lakh (ex-showroom pan India).

The Skoda Slavia and Skoda Kushaq have received an upgrade in their Style variants. They now come equipped with the 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which was temporarily unavailable due to a shortage of semiconductor chips. This feature is available in the top-spec Style variants of both models. It is important to note that the Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo edition already had this larger touchscreen system.

In addition to the touchscreen infotainment system, both the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq Style variants now also come with electrically adjustable front seats and footwell illumination. Other features that are common to both models include an 8-inch digital driver’s display, a single-pane sunroof, and ventilated front seats. The Ambition Plus variant of the Slavia also includes a built-in dashcam.

The Style variant of the Skoda Kushaq has undergone a change in its alloy wheels. It now features a simpler-looking set of silver alloy wheels, replacing the previously available dual-tone 17-inch alloy wheels. However, the Monte Carlo edition of the Kushaq still retains the 5-spoke dual-tone 17-inch wheels. Both designs of the alloy wheels are referred to as VEGA by Skoda.

Both the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq offer two engine options. There’s a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine that comes with a choice of a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. There’s also a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

The starting prices for the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq are Rs 10.89 lakh (ex-showroom pan India).

News

Skoda Kamiq Gets a Tougher Look and Starts at £24,030

The Skoda Kamiq crossover has been given a mid-life refresh and the Czech automaker has announced that it will be priced from £24,030 in the UK.

The updated Skoda Kamiq will be available for order starting from 3 October. It will be released alongside the refreshed Skoda Scala hatchback, but with a more rugged appearance, improved safety features, and new optional extras.

Similar to the Scala hatchback, the Skoda Kamiq will come in three trim levels: SE, SE L, and Monte Carlo.

In the basic SE specification, the Kamiq will come equipped with 17-inch wheels and an 8.25-inch infotainment display. It will also have an 8.0-inch instrument display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rear parking sensors, LED headlights, and dual-zone climate control.

Stepping up to the SE L trim brings interior upgrades including ambient lighting, a larger 9.2-inch infotainment system, and a 10.25-inch digital cockpit. As for exterior changes, SE L models will have 18-inch wheels, chrome exterior styling, and privacy glass. Prices for the Kamiq in SE L specification start from £27,175.

The range-topping Monte Carlo trim starts from £29,275. It includes additional exterior design changes such as 18-inch black alloy wheels and a black theme for the door mirrors, front grille, and badging.

Monte Carlo models also come with a panoramic sunroof, a reversing camera, dynamic indicators, more powerful LED matrix headlights, and sports chassis control.

The Kamiq shares the same engine options as the Scala. It starts with a 1.0-liter TSI petrol engine producing 95bhp, paired with a five-speed manual transmission. A mid-range 1.0-liter TSI offers 115bhp and is available with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (DSG).

There is also a 150bhp 1.5-liter four-cylinder TSI engine paired with a choice of six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG.

The Kamiq was first launched in 2019, based on the same platform as the Seat Arona and Volkswagen T-Cross. In its mid-life update, it receives a larger front grille with new front and rear aprons, larger air intakes, and a “three-dimensional mesh” to highlight its width.

The rear lights now incorporate larger air curtains, and there is a silver rear diffuser for enhanced underbody protection.

The Kamiq’s headlights have been redesigned to be slimmer and fully illuminated by LEDs as standard, and for the first time, the Skoda name is spelled out on the rear of the car.

Inside the cabin, the Kamiq features more sustainable materials, with the roof lining and much of the door trim made of natural plant fibers. The wheel-arch linings and windscreen water reservoir are made of recycled plastics, and the upholstery, flooring, and floor mats are made from recycled fabric.

Motorsport

See Speeding Driver Illegally Pass Unmarked Police Car, Get Served Instant Justice

In the Czech Republic, a driver recently attempted to illegally overtake two cars on a two-lane road near a railroad crossing. While this type of behavior is common worldwide, what makes this situation unusual is that one of the cars being passed was an unmarked police car.

The incident was captured on two cameras inside the unmarked police car, one on the dashboard and another facing out the rear window. As the police car approaches a railroad crossing, it slows down along with the hatchback in front of it. At the same time, a large tandem trailer truck approaches from the opposite lane.

A silver Ford then approaches from behind. As soon as the truck passes, the Ford speeds up, overtaking both the police car and the hatchback just as they cross the railroad track. Immediately, the unmarked police car accelerates, overtaking the hatchback and initiating a pursuit of the Ford. It is unclear if the police car turned on its lights and siren, but the Ford quickly activates its hazard lights and pulls over to the side of the road, waiting for the police officer to approach.

According to the Czechia Police YouTube channel, the violation occurred at a rail crossing near Sedlec, a community located about forty miles outside Prague, in a no-passing zone. The thirty-eight-year-old foreign driver of the Ford was cited for making an illegal pass and could face a fine of up to $439 (10,000 Czech crowns), as well as a potential one-year driving ban.

Although no one was injured, and no vehicles were damaged in this incident, it had the potential for a serious accident. Train-truck collisions can result in train derailments, explosions, and significant damage. Similarly, drivers who attempt illegal passes often face instant karma and the consequences of their actions.

News

Total overhaul for interior of 2024 Skoda Kodiaq PHEV

The interior of the next-generation Skoda Kodiaq has been previewed by the Czech firm, with new images revealing that it will retain physical dial controls for critical functions.

The three dials, located between the centre console and the dashboard, can be customized to control different functions. Official images show the system set up to manage the climate settings for the front occupants, with stereo volume control between the two dials.

The dials on either side of the front occupants can control the cabin temperature, seat heating or seat ventilation, based on user preference. The central controller, meanwhile, can adjust the fan speed, air direction, volume of the sound system, selected driving mode, or the zoom level of the sat-nav map.

The new images also reveal that the Kodiaq will feature a large 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 10-inch digital instrument display.

2024 Skoda Kodiaq interior dials

In addition, the automatic gear selector has been relocated from the centre console to a stalk on the steering wheel, providing more legroom for the front occupants.

Connectivity has also been emphasized in the design of the new Kodiaq. USB-C ports are featured on the rear-view mirror and centre console, which also integrates a 15W wireless phone-charging box.

First drive: 2024 Skoda Kodiaq prototype review

Even the most iconic movie trilogies (including The Godfather and The Dark Knight) tend to lose steam by the third installment.

But it’s a different story with Skoda SUVs. The Czech automaker has released a successful three-part series, starting with the Skoda Kodiaq as a great debut, followed by the highly acclaimed Skoda Karoq and Kamiq. Now, the company is turning its attention back to where it all began, with a new Kodiaq set to be released in the first quarter of 2024.

The second-generation large SUV will continue to share components with other Volkswagen Group models, including the new VW Tiguan, which we’ve also seen as a prototype. Prices, trims, and equipment details will be confirmed later this year, but there will be a choice between a standard Kodiaq and a sportier-looking SportLine version, with most models offering seven seats. A more powerful Skoda Kodiaq vRS version is expected to join the lineup about a year later.

First Drive

Skoda Enyaq iV Coupe 80 Studio

The Skoda Enyaq iV has been on the market for several years now, marking Skoda’s entrance into the growing electric SUV market. The Enyaq has been successful in attracting customers with its stylish design, and the introduction of the Skoda Enyaq iV Coupé last year further boosted sales, helping Skoda become the sixth most popular brand in Europe in 2022.

Today, we will be looking at the Enyaq iV Coupé. It comes in four trims and is equipped with Skoda’s largest 82kWh (75kWh usable) battery, offering an impressive range of 345 miles. The starting price for this streamlined electric vehicle is a modest £44,825, considering the current market for electric family cars in 2023. Competitors include the user-friendly Volvo C40 Recharge, Volkswagen’s ID 5, and the unique Hyundai Ioniq 5.

We are testing the Suite-trim Coupé, which falls in the middle of the trims. For an additional £1380 compared to the standard Loft trim, you get a premium upgrade with soft black leather on the dashboard, doors, and seats. It adds a more luxurious feel to the car, although the absence of electric seats at this price point is somewhat surprising and feels a bit cheap.

Our test car also features Race Blue metallic paint (£660) and the Clever package (£2755), which includes keyless entry, adaptive cruise control, heated front seats, and other tech upgrades, along with a stylish two-spoke steering wheel. The total price for our configured car comes to £49,620. It’s not cheap, but the cost of electric family driving nowadays is expected to be higher.

Motorsport

Skoda Superb Wagon Spotted During Hot-Weather Testing for Next Generation Model

Skoda is preparing for the release of the next-generation Superb, scheduled for the second half of 2023, by conducting hot-weather testing in Southern Europe. Although the model is still heavily camouflaged, spy photos show a few design details, with shots of the wagon variant currently available.

Notable features that can be observed include boxy headlights that have running lamps located at the lower section, and the traditional vertical slats of the Skoda grille. Additionally, the front bumper possesses air curtains on its outer ends and a slim, horizontal bar that divides the central inlet.

The liftback variant will also be launched alongside the wagon, although images of this are yet to be released.