Skoda finishes 2013 below 2012 figures, but 2014 will be better.

• ŠKODA delivers 920,800 vehicles to customers in 2013 (2012: 939,200)
• Powerful final sprint with the best December in corporate history: 70,000 deliveries (December 2012: 66,200 deliveries, up 5.8%)
• ŠKODA model campaign proves its strength
• For the first time ŠKODA’s European market share grows to over 4%
• China is once again ŠKODA’s strongest individual market in 2013 with 227,000 sales
• Product campaign continues: a new model every six months on average

ŠKODA AUTO has successfully implemented its international growth strategy in 2013 again, selling 920,800 vehicles worldwide (2012: 939,200). Following the model launches in the first six months, ŠKODA saw significant growth later in the year, and recently achieved the best ever December for ŠKODA.

In the last month of the year, the company delivered 70,000 vehicles to customers, which is an increase of 5.8% over the previous December-record, set in 2012. In the years ahead, ŠKODA plans to grow further. To achieve this continued growth, the manufacturer will be introducing a new or revised model on average every six months until 2016.

“ŠKODA has demonstrated its strength this year. Despite the above-average number of production start-ups and fierce headwinds from some markets, we achieved the second-best sales year in corporate history - This is an excellent result,” says ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. “2013 was a record year with more new ŠKODA models than ever before. Eight new or completely revised models show the power of the ŠKODA brand. The winged arrow is shining, and our new cars are being very well received. Our attractrive model range, good flow of incoming orders and increasingly bright future on the European automotive markets make us confident for 2014.”

2013 - the third year of the ŠKODA growth strategy - was both a successful and an intense year for the Czech carmaker. Eight new or revised models, twelve international production start-ups, expansion of capacity in the Czech Republic, as well as in the growth markets of China and Russia, added to this the crisis in some markets: “2013 was really quite a year!” says Dr. Vahland. After the first half of the year had been characterized by the difficult market situation in Europe, as well as the production start-ups and the associated lower production volumes, ŠKODA was back on track in the second half of the year. With the full availability of the new models, sales increased significantly each month from September onwards. “Our model campaign is now showing its full strength. We are growing strongly and expanding our market shares continuously,” says Werner Eichhorn, ŠKODA Board Member for Sales and Marketing.

The new models have been very well received - especially the new ŠKODA Octavia, which is once again proving to be a great hit. In December, ŠKODA Octavia grew once again in Western Europe with high double-digit growth rates: up 52.3% compared to December 2012. In Europe as a whole, the Octavia recorded an increase of 19.1% in December.

In Western Europe, ŠKODA performed significantly better than the overall declining market in 2013. 369,600 vehicles sold represents an increase of 3.1% compared to 2012 (358,400). In December, Western European sales even rose by 17.8% to 31,300 vehicles (December 2012: 26,600). The ŠKODA market share in Western Europe increased for the year as a whole to 3.2% (2012: 3.0%). In the second largest market, Germany, ŠKODA grew to 136,400 deliveries in 2013, which is an increase over the previous year of 2.9% (132,600). The market share rose to 4.6% and ŠKODA continues to build its position as the strongest import brand in Germany.

In the UK, the manufacturer increased deliveries to customers over the past year by 24% to a new record high of 66,000 vehicles (2012: 53,200). The Czech brand also achieved double-digit growth in Denmark, up 40.7 % to 14,600 vehicles (2012: 10,400). Sales in Spain have also seen a positive increase (13,400 vehicles; +3.0%), Italy (12,100 vehicles; +2.0%), Norway (6,800 vehicles; +2.1%) and Sweden (12,300 vehicles, +1.4%).

In Eastern Europe, including Russia, ŠKODA delivered 125,400 vehicles to customers last year (2012: 137,100; -8.5%). ŠKODA’s market share reached 4%. In ŠKODA’s third-largest market, Russia, the manufacturer achieved 87,500 deliveries (2012: 99,100; -11.7%). The new Octavia was introduced there in the second half of the year. The Rapid is to follow in the first six months of 2014. Considerable growth was also seen in Kazakhstan in 2013, where 4,700 customers decided on a new ŠKODA, which is an increase of 145.7% over the previous year (1,900). ŠKODA achieved growth in the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania), where the brand grew by 3.4% to 4,600 vehicles sold in 2013 (2012: 4,500). In Serbia ŠKODA increased deliveries by 12.4% to 4,200 units (2012: 3,700).

ŠKODA grew once again in Central Europe in 2013. Deliveries to customers rose by 2.0% to 126,500 vehicles (2012: 124,000). ŠKODA’s market share rose to 19.2%. In December, brand deliveries in Central Europe grew by 13.5% to 11,300 (December 2012: 9,900). In the domestic market - the Czech Republic, ŠKODA sold a total of 60,000 vehicles in 2013, an increase of 0.6% (2012: 59,700). ŠKODA is defending its top position also in Poland. With 38,700 vehicles sold (2012: 36,300), representing an increase of 6.6% over the same period last year, the Czech carmaker remains the undisputed market leader for 2013.

Once again, China was ŠKODA’s strongest individual market in 2013, where the manufacturer delivered a total of 227,000 vehicles to customers (2012: 235,700 units; -3.7 %). The market launch of the new Octavia is on the cards only for the start of 2014. In India ŠKODA achieved a total of 22,600 deliveries in 2013 (2012: 34,300; -34.2%). In 2013 ŠKODA was also particularly successful in Israel (14,400; +11.7%), Turkey (12,800; +23.2%) and Algeria (9,100, +85.3%).

ŠKODA deliveries to customers in 2013 (in units, rounded off, according to model; +/- in % over 2012):

ŠKODA Octavia (359,600; -12.2 %)
ŠKODA Fabia (202,000; -16.0 %)
ŠKODA Superb (94,400; -13.4 %)
ŠKODA Yeti (82,400; -5.7 %)
ŠKODA Roomster (33,300; -12.3 %)
ŠKODA Rapid (103,800; +320.3 %)
ŠKODA Citigo (Only sold in Europe: 45,200; +51.0 %)

ŠKODA deliveries to customers in December 2013 (in units, rounded off, according to model; +/- in % over the same month in 2012):

ŠKODA Octavia (25,400; +3.5 %)
ŠKODA Fabia (14,400; -18.5 %)
ŠKODA Superb (5,100; -18.9 %)
ŠKODA Yeti (6,700; -5.6 %)
ŠKODA Roomster (2,900; +2.1 %)
ŠKODA Rapid (12,400; +312.4 %)
ŠKODA Citigo (only sold in Europe: 3,100; -34.3 %)

Skoda smashes 2012 full year sales with two months to go !

• 2013 year-to-date sales up 19% compared to the UK market, which has increased 10%
• Success means 2012’s total already passed
• 5,641 new ŠKODA registrations during October – up 18.5% on October last year

ŠKODA UK and its retailers are celebrating a record 2013. With 5,641 vehicle registrations during October, it takes the year-to-date (YTD) total to 55,217 – and passes last year’s benchmark of 53,200.

ŠKODA UK’s growth is also outperforming the UK automotive market. Bouncing back after the recession of 2008, the market has expanded by 10% YTD, but the Czech company is up 19%.

Furthermore, ŠKODA UK’s market share is up in October at 3.6% – and 2.8% YTD. The brand’s previous best, in 2012, was 2.6% YTD.

Alasdair Stewart, Brand Director for ŠKODA UK, was thrilled with the news and commented: “With our fresh new design language and expanded model line-up, ŠKODA cars are delivering exactly what our customers want – high quality and reliable motoring at value-for-money prices.”

October’s new car registrations figure of 5,641 is almost 900 units higher than the same month last year. Fleet customers choosing desirable models such as the ŠKODA Superb, new Octavia and Rapid played their part, with corporate registrations up from 1,716 last October to 2,400 this October.

Skoda announce prices and spec for new Yeti and Yeti Outdoor.

• Facelifted Yeti range to start from £16,600 OTR
• Two versions available: Yeti and Yeti Outdoor with new exterior design
• Lowered CO2 outputs on selected models
• New technology including fifth-generation Haldex Clutch 4x4
• New equipment including reversing camera and latest generation Park Assist
• UK deliveries to start January 2014

ŠKODA has announced prices and specifications for the facelifted Yeti. Following its public debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, the facelifted version of ŠKODA’s multi-award-winning crossover hits UK showrooms in January, with order books opening this month.

Prices range from £16,600 OTR for the Yeti S 1.2 TSI 105PS, up to £27,050 for the range-topping Yeti Outdoor L&K 2.0 TDI 140PS 4x4 DSG.

Among the many updates to the range is the availability of two versions for the first time: Yeti and Yeti Outdoor. Reflecting the car’s broad appeal, the two versions feature different design features that allow owners to fully exploit the potential of the Yeti in their preferred driving environment.

As part of the refresh package, four engines now feature lower CO2 emissions, while new technology in the form of rear-view parking camera, bi-xenon lights with LED daytime running lights and KESSY keyless entry, start and exit system has been introduced to the range.

Four new metallic colours have also been added to the range: Moon White, Jungle Green, Metal Grey and Magnetic Brown.

Yeti – built for the urban jungle

Featuring smooth lines and body-coloured bumpers, sills and side strips, the Yeti appeals to buyers who demand the high driving position and visibility of an SUV, but don’t require off-road capability. Offered in front-wheel-drive form only, the Yeti is available in three trim grades: S, SE and Elegance, and comes with the options of three clean and efficient engines, including a frugal 1.6 TDI CR 105PS DPF GreenLine II unit that emits just 119g/km of CO2.

Yeti Outdoor – the start of a new adventure

The Yeti Outdoor delivers a noticeably more rugged look than the two-wheel-drive Yeti, with styling features designed to allow owners to get the most out of their car.

The bumpers incorporate steeper approach and departure angles to facilitate off-road use, while the use of black trim along the sides and lower elements of the bumper means that the Outdoor can take rough surfaces in its stride. With the option of a new fifth-generation Haldex Clutch four-wheel-drive system, the Yeti outdoor is available in four specification levels: S, SE, Elegance and L&K. The range includes two petrol engines and four diesels, with power outputs ranging from 105PS to 170PS. Transmission options include manual and DSG automatic gearboxes.

Arrives early 2014

The facelifted Yeti order book opens this month, with the first customer deliveries expected in January 2014.

Equipment levels

Yeti S - standard equipment includes

• 12V socket in centre console and luggage compartment
• 16" 'Dolomite' alloy wheels with anti-theft wheel bolts (215/60 R16 95H tyres)
• 3 spoke leather multi-function steering wheel
• Alarm with interior monitoring and tilt sensor
• Black roof rails
• Body coloured door mirrors and door handles
• Body coloured sills and front and rear bumpers
• Curtain airbags
• Daytime running lights
• Driver and passenger front and side airbags
• Driver knee airbag
• Electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors
• ESC inc ABS, EBV, MSR, ASR, EDS, MBA & DSR
• Front and rear electric windows (with child safety switch)
• Front fog lights
• Front passenger airbag with deactivation switch
• Gear change recommendation (manual transmission only)
• GSM II telephone preparation with Bluetooth
• Height adjustable driver and front passenger seat
• ISOFIX child seat fittings on outer rear seats
• Leather handbrake and gear lever
• Manual air conditioning
• Maxi-DOT trip computer
• Radio 'Swing' - 2 DIN with single CD player (with MP3 file compatibility)
• Seatbelt height adjustment for front seats
• Tyre repair set
• Varioflex

Yeti Outdoor S (in addition to Yeti)

• 16” ‘Nevis’ alloy wheels with anti-theft wheel bolts (215/60 R16 95H tyres)
• Black protective side mouldings
• Black sills and front and rear bumpers
• Silver door mirrors

Yeti SE (over S)

• 17” ‘Scudo’ alloy wheels with anti-theft wheel bolts (225/50 R17 94W tyres)
• 3 height adjustable rear headrests
• 3.5mm aux-in socket for MP3 players
• Additional 4 loudspeakers in the rear
• Chrome inner door handles
• Cruise control
• Dual tone horn
• Dual-zone air conditioning with humidity sensor and control
• Front centre armrest with storage compartment
• Horizontal rails with sliding hooks in boot
• Integrated headlight washers
• Net programme in luggage compartment
• Radio ‘Bolero’ – 2 DIN with 6 CD changer (with MP3 file compatibility)
• Rear armrest and cupholders (when middle seat folded down)
• Rear parking sensors
• Removable box in luggage compartment
• Removable LED lamp in luggage compartment
• Storage box on dash (closed)
• Sunset glass (from B-pillar back)
• Washer fluid level indicator

Yeti Outdoor SE (in addition to Yeti)

• 17" 'Erebus' alloy wheels with anti-theft wheel bolts (225/50 R17 94W tyres)

Yeti Elegance (over SE):

• 17" 'Annapurna' alloy wheels with anti-theft wheel bolts (225/50 R17 94W tyres)
• Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
• Bi-xenon headlights with cornering function and dynamic angle control
• Boarding spots integrated into door mirrors
• Cornering front fog lights
• Electrically adjustable, folding and heated door mirrors
• Front seats with lumbar support
• Full leather upholstery (may contain some artificial leather)
• Glasses storage case
• Heated front seats
• Hill hold control
• LED daytime running lights
• Light assistant (coming home, leaving home, tunnel light, daytime running lights)
• Rain sensor
• Storage box under front passenger seat

Yeti Outdoor Elegance (in addition to Yeti)

• Off-road button (4x4 engines only)

Yeti Outdoor Laurin & Klement (over Yeti Outdoor Elegance)

• 17" 'Origami' alloy wheels in black and silver with anti-theft wheel bolts (225/50 R17 94W tyres)
• Black side protective moulding with chrome ledge
• Brown leather front armrest with stitching
• Carpets with brown stitching
• Columbus satellite navigation system with DAB digital radio
• Decorative inserts in piano black with L&K logo
• Electrically adjustable, folding and heated door mirrors with auto-dimming door mirror on driver's side
• Full brown leather upholstery with L&K logos and stitching
• Heated windscreen
• L&K inscription on front mudguards
• L&K scuff plates
• Panoramic sunroof
• Park assist
• Silver roof rails

FRANKFURT - Skoda

• New ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback and the redesigned ŠKODA Yeti
• Rapid Spaceback: ŠKODA's young compact hatchback
• Redesigned ŠKODA Yeti in two design variations: Yeti and Yeti Outdoor
• ŠKODA model range now includes seven model series
• Deliveries from January to July reach 534,300 units
• ŠKODA in 1,732 m2 exhibit in Hall 3.0 at the Frankfurt Motor Show

At this year’s Frankfurt International Motor Show, ŠKODA makes headlines with the world premiere of two new models, the new Rapid Spaceback and the completely redesigned ŠKODA Yeti, increasing the number of model series in the model range to a total of seven. This year, ŠKODA will launch eight new or redesigned models and plans to increase its sales to at least 1.5 million per year by 2018. In the first seven months of 2013 alone, ŠKODA delivered 534,300 vehicles to customers.

“The largest model offensive in the company’s history confirms ŠKODA’s position as a high-volume brand in international automobile markets,” says ŠKODA’s CEO Winfried Vahland. “Our new and expanded model range reinforces our brand at the Frankfurt International Motor Show. The steady expansion of our product offering is proof of our company’s and our team’s competitiveness. With its space, features, and design offering, the ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback sets new standards in its segment. Despite difficult market situations, we remain committed to growth. We aim to sell at least 1.5 million cars per year by 2018,” says Vahland.

In Frankfurt, the brand’s strength will be more visible than ever before. ŠKODA’s portfolio now includes seven model series: from the sub-compact ŠKODA Citigo to the Fabia and Roomster, the compact Rapid Limousine, the new Rapid Spaceback, the Octavia model series and the Superb to the Yeti. All ŠKODAs now sport the new logo and newly designed lettering.

ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback: The new class in the compact hatchback segment

The Rapid Spaceback is ŠKODA’s new offering in the high-volume compact segment. “As the first ŠKODA hatchback model in the compact class, the ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback is another milestone for the brand,” says ŠKODA head of development Frank Welsch. “It is a first for us to have a representative in the strongest European car segment. The ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback is the perfect car for young people and families,” says Welsch.

The ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback combines dynamically fresh design with the excellent ŠKODA qualities we expect and thus distinguishes itself both visually and functionally from its competition. “The new Rapid Spaceback is an attractive new offering in its class, a vehicle with a high degree of independence and an unmatched package,” says Welsch.

Visually clear and distinct, the ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback sports the new ŠKODA design. Compared with conventional hatchback models, the car appears significantly longer when viewed from the side. The Rapid Spaceback has many optional features, such as a large panoramic sunroof and a long rear window. The new brand appearance marks the front: A new logo on the bonnet ‘nose’, a distinctive grille, headlamps and fog lights arranged in a cloverleaf pattern. The rear design underscores horizontal lines and sports ŠKODA’s typical ‘C’-shaped lights.

The interior appears particularly fresh and youthful. Rapid Spaceback customers can choose new 3-spoke steering wheels, new fabrics and new trim lines. In addition to being stylishly sporty, the interior offers plenty of room for all passengers. Passengers in the rear enjoy the most knee room and headroom in the entire segment, while the boot sets new standards with its volume of 415 to 1,380 litres.

The ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback is a smart compact to the core that includes many ‘Simply Clever’ solutions, such as the double cargo floor in the boot, which divides the floor into two horizontal compartments when needed, an ice scraper inside the fuel filler flap, many holders for daily items, restraining nets and hooks.

The range of engines includes four petrol and two diesel versions. Shortly after market launch of the Rapid Spaceback, ŠKODA will introduce a GreenLine version with 99 g CO2 emissions per kilometre. In terms of safety, the Rapid Spaceback protects occupants with numerous active and passive safety features.

ŠKODA Yeti completely revised – now in two design variations

A completely redesigned ŠKODA Yeti is certain to be a highlight at the Frankfurt International Motor Show. For the first time, this popular compact SUV is available in two variations: the ŠKODA Yeti styled for urban use, and the ŠKODA Yeti Outdoor, ready for adventures. Both designs sport a new front and rear design, a fresh interior, all-wheel or front-wheel drive, and expanded engine/transmission combinations. European market launch is scheduled by the end of 2013.

“The ŠKODA Yeti’s progress has been stellar since its launch four years ago, and it has exceeded our expectations by far. Impressive numbers both on- and off-road are proof of its power,“ says Werner Eichhorn, ŠKODA board member for sales and marketing. “The new edition will make the ŠKODA Yeti even more attractive and versatile. In the popular SUV segment, we are definitely geared for growth.”

The ŠKODA Yeti has been completely redesigned and now appears with an entirely new front and rear in the new ŠKODA design language. In addition to this redesign, ŠKODA plans to introduce a second distinct line of design. The compact SUV is now available either as a primarily urban-styled Yeti or as a Yeti Outdoor with specific off-road features. While on the urban-type Yeti, visible design elements, such as the bumper, underride guard, side trim and door sills all are kept in the same colour as the vehicle itself, the outdoor variation sports black plastic elements that match its off-road look.

Both ŠKODA Yeti variations are impressively versatile. Customers can choose between seven different engines, front or all-wheel-drive with Haldex 5 clutch, and numerous engine-transmission combinations including DSG gearboxes. The ŠKODA Yeti also sports new aluminium rims and new interior design elements, such as a 3-spoke steering wheel with different design options, new fabrics and decoration as well as innovative engineering features, such as an optional rear view camera, a first in a ŠKODA model.

Largest model offensive in company history launched successfully

The new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback and the redesigned ŠKODA Yeti are the manufacturer’s newest innovations within the largest model offensive in ŠKODA’s 118-year history.

“Over the last two years, we have redesigned or fundamentally revamped a large part of our model series and increased our product offering from five to seven models,” says ŠKODA CEO Vahland. “We have never had a model offensive of this dimension at ŠKODA.”

The new Octavia - great reviews

The new ŠKODA Octavia’s performance in the markets is just one example of how well-liked the new model series are. “Media and customer response to the new Octavia has been very positive,” says Eichhorn, board member for sales and marketing. With the help of the third-generation Octavia, the manufacturer aims to sell half a million per year, which would rank the model among the top ten worldwide.

The new Octavia’s position in its class is now proving stronger than ever. Both the limousine and the estate boast unrivalled space, new design, high functionality, innovative safety and comfort systems, fuel economy, numerous ‘Simply Clever’ solutions, and the typical ŠKODA value.

Focus on emerging markets

With plans to keep the pace over the next few years, ŠKODA’s growth strategy aims to increase sales to at least 1.5 million vehicles per year by 2018. In the coming years, the manufacturer will introduce one new or redesigned car every six months on average.

ŠKODA’s plans also include expansions in the growing markets of China and Russia. “ŠKODA has been successful in these countries for many years. We will strive to continue this positive growth in the coming years,“ says ŠKODA head of sales Eichhorn.

China is established as the brand’s strongest single market. Since the market entry in 2007, roughly one million ŠKODA models have already rolled off the manufacturing lines at Shanghai Volkswagen, the company’s local partner. In the first seven months of 2013, about one-fourth of ŠKODA deliveries went to the Chinese market. In the coming years, the brand aims to increase sales in China to about half a million per year, focusing on a significant expansion of the model range in the country and increasing the number of ŠKODA models offered and locally manufactured in China from three to six models by mid-2014.

In Russia, ŠKODA maintains manufacturing plants in two locations. Currently, Russia is the third-strongest ŠKODA sales market worldwide, and number two in Europe. The Russian GAZ plant in Nizhny Novgorod rolled out its first ŠKODA Octavia just a few weeks ago and is set to produce the redesigned ŠKODA Yeti. The manufacturer plans to start building the ŠKODA Rapid at the Volkswagen plant in Kaluga in early 2014.

The new Octavia recently began rolling off production lines in India.

In addition to international growth markets, ŠKODA continues to expand in Europe. “Europe remains one of our key markets,” says Eichhorn. The brand aims to increase its market share from roughly four per cent to over five per cent. Therefore, ŠKODA has been investing in its locations in the Czech Republic, extensively expanding and modernising the company’s main location in Mladá Boleslav for the production of the ŠKODA Rapid/Rapid Spaceback and the new ŠKODA Octavia. ŠKODA is also currently building its technology and development centre in Česana near the headquarters in Mladá Boleslav.

Deliveries in 2013

The current economic climate, numerous model changes and production start-ups have had an effect on this year’s sales performance. During the first seven months of 2013 ŠKODA delivered a total of 534,300 vehicles, 5.5 per cent less than the in the same period of the previous year.

After production start of the ŠKODA Octavia at the Mladá Boleslav main plant, production in Russia is ramping up as well. Production of the new ŠKODA Rapid is currently ramped up in China, and that of the ŠKODA Octavia in India. The most intense year of ŠKODA’s model offensive is also seeing a fundamental redesign of the ŠKODA Superb and ŠKODA Yeti.

ŠKODA at the 65th International Motor Show in Frankfurt:

• ŠKODA location: Hall 3.0, booth A05
• ŠKODA exhibit space: 1,732 m2
• ŠKODA press conference: 10 September 2013, 10.15 to 10.30 a.m.
• Number of ŠKODA vehicles on exhibit on first press day: 14 (2 × Rapid Spaceback, 1 × Rapid Spaceback Monte Carlo, 1 × Rapid Sport, 1 × Rapid GreenLine, 1 × Yeti, 1 × Yeti Outdoor, 1 × Octavia RS, 1 × Octavia Combi RS, 1 × Octavia GreenLine, 1 × Superb Combi, 1 × Superb GreenLine, 1 × Citigo Sport, 1 × Fabia Monte Carlo)
• Number of ŠKODA vehicles on exhibit on second press day: 19 (2 × Rapid Spaceback, 1 × Rapid Spaceback Monte Carlo, 1 × Rapid Spaceback GreenLine, 1 × Rapid Sport, 1 × Rapid GreenLine, 1 × Yeti, 1 × Yeti Outdoor, 1 × Octavia Combi, 1 × Octavia RS, 1 × Octavia Combi RS, 1 × Octavia GreenLine, 1 × Superb Combi, 1 × Superb GreenLine, 1 × Citigo Sport, 1 × Citigo CNG, 1 × Fabia Fresh, 1 × Fabia Monte Carlo, 1 × Roomster Noire)
• Number of ŠKODA vehicles on exhibit on days open to public: 19 (2 × Rapid Spaceback, 1 × Rapid Spaceback Monte Carlo, 1 × Rapid Spaceback GreenLine, 1 × Rapid Sport, 1 × Rapid GreenLine, 1 × Yeti , 1 × Yeti Outdoor, 1 × Octavia Combi, 1 × Octavia RS, 1 × Octavia Combi RS, 1 × Octavia GreenLine, 1 × Superb Combi, 1 × Superb GreenLine, 1 × Citigo Sport, 1 × Citigo CNG, 1 × Fabia Fresh, 1 × Fabia Monte Carlo, 1 × Roomster Noire)
• Press days: 10 to 11 September 2013
• Industry visitor days: 12 to 13 September 2013
• Public days: 14 to 22 September 2013

New ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback and redesigned ŠKODA Yeti make world debut

• New ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback and redesigned ŠKODA Yeti make world debut
• Rapid Spaceback: striking new ŠKODA hatchback with dramatic looks
• Revised ŠKODA SUV available in two versions – Yeti and Yeti Outdoor
• Press conference 10.15am, 10 September 2013 in Hall 3

ŠKODA’s bold growth strategy takes another leap forward at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show with two exciting new models set to make their world premieres. The new ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback and facelifted Yeti will take centre stage on the ŠKODA stand in hall 3, showcasing the brand’s dynamic design and technical innovation.

The world premiere of the Rapid Spaceback and facelifted Yeti represents another milestone in ŠKODA’s ambitious product plan – a strategy that will see eight new or facelifted models arrive before the end of 2013.  With the arrival of these important models, ŠKODA remains on target to achieve its sales target of at least 1.5 million cars by 2018.

“At Frankfurt, we are going to demonstrate the power of our brand – both with brand new Rapid Spaceback and Yeti – and with our refreshed and expanded model line as a whole,” says ŠKODA chairman of the board Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. “We are carrying on with our growth strategy even when the market is going through rough times. In following years, we are going to further strengthen the position of the ŠKODA brand as an important global player in automotive markets.”

ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback

The new Rapid Spaceback applies fresh and original thinking to an established and typically conservative area of the compact family hatchback market.

“ŠKODA Rapid Spaceback is the first compact family hatchback in the history of ŠKODA, and another milestone in the brand’s history,” says Dr. Frank Welsch, ŠKODA head of development. “For the first time, we are present in the strongest segment of the European car market.”

The Rapid Spaceback’s fresh and dynamic design combines established ŠKODA qualities with unique styling and exceptional functionality. With its bold design language and individual character, the Rapid Spaceback brings something genuinely new to the sector, and further confirms ŠKODA as a forward-thinking brand.

In addition to its striking design, the Rapid Spaceback offers a vast array of personalisation options that allow buyers to tailor the car to their own tastes. Among the styling options are a large panoramic glass roof and extended tailgate glazing.

Inside, the Rapid Spaceback sets new standards in the compact family hatchback sector. Rear passengers enjoy the highest levels of knee- and headroom in the class, while the 415 litre boot (extendable to 1,380 litres) offers exceptional practicality. The cabin builds on the strengths of the standard Rapid and adds new steering wheels, fresh upholstery fabrics and new trim.

In true ŠKODA style, the Rapid Spaceback is also packed with ‘Simply Clever’ features, including a dual-level boot floor, ice-scraper inside the fuel cap, and a host of holders, nets and hooks all around the interior.

The engine range comprises of four petrol and two diesel units. The line-up will also include a GreenLine version with CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km.

ŠKODA Yeti facelift

With a dramatic new look and an expanded range, the facelifted Yeti is set to embark on a fascinating new adventure. The revised version of ŠKODA’s award-winning crossover makes its world debut at Frankfurt, delivering more choice and new to the brand technologies.

Recognising the broad appeal of the Yeti, ŠKODA has developed the facelifted Yeti range to incorporate two different variants – Yeti and Yeti Outdoor. The former has been designed to look and feel at home in the big city, and features body-coloured bumpers, side protective mouldings and rear panels to give a smoother, sleeker look. The Yeti Outdoor, in contrast, features black plastic mouldings that sit perfectly with the SUV’s rugged and adventurous image.

Six different engines will be available across the revised Yeti line-up, with the option of front-wheel-drive or all wheel drive with a new fifth-generation Haldex coupling. In addition, the facelifted Yeti offers new alloy wheel designs and fresh interior design features, including steering wheels, new seat fabrics or decorative trim pieces. The Yeti can also be equipped with a parking camera for the first time.

“The Yeti is doing great not only in the showrooms, but also on the roads or in rough terrain,” says Werner Eichhorn, member of the ŠKODA board member for sales and marketing. “In its revised form, the ŠKODA Yeti is now even more attractive and versatile. This way, we want to strengthen our market positions even further.”

Driving ŠKODA forward

The new ŠKODA rapid Spaceback and revised ŠKODA Yeti are the latest additions to the biggest product expansion plan in almost 118 year history of the brand. This strategy is one of the pillars of the ŠKODA Growth Strategy, which aims at increasing the brand's annual sales to at least 1.5 million cars by the 2018.

To achieve this, the brand will launch, on average, one new or revised model every six months. As part of its expansion strategy, ŠKODA will strengthen its position in key growth markets, including China or Russia. In addition, ŠKODA also plans to increases its presence in Europe, where it wants to increase its market share to more than five per cent.