Skoda Auto extends it's fitment of an umberalla on four ranges, up from just the one Superb range.

• ŠKODA’s integrated umbrella range extended to three new models
• Standard on Citigo and Fabia SE models upwards, optional on Octavia SE upwards
• Superb models have offered built-in umbrellas since 2001
• UK drivers experience 133 days of rainfall every year

It’s not just pop star Rihanna offering the great British public the opportunity to “stand under my umbrella”, ŠKODA is extending that generosity with the introduction of the brand’s acclaimed built-in brolly across even more models in the range.

ŠKODA’s integrated umbrellas have been the saviour of deluge-dodging Superb drivers for more than 15 years. Neatly incorporated into the doors, they remain one of the Superb’s most talked-about features. Indeed, the feature has proved such a hit with British drivers that ŠKODA has developed new storage systems and umbrellas for the Citigo, Fabia and Octavia ranges. 

Citigo and Fabia buyers will be able to enjoy year-round protection from the elements if they opt for SE models upwards, with both models fitted with a neat under-seat storage tray and a single umbrella. Octavia buyers also get to enjoy the benefit of the new umbrella and storage system as a £25 option on SE models and above. As with the brollies fitted to the new Superb, the umbrellas have an anti-bacterial coating and sit in a ventilated tray with a water-repellent lining.

The new umbrella systems will be available on all new Citigo, Fabia and Octavia models ordered from 8 August 2016.

The news is certain to be welcomed by British motorists, who, on average experience 133 days of rainfall every year and can expect to be drenched by 885mm of rain, hail, sleet and snow during an average year (Source: Met Office).

ŠKODA’s history of offering hand-held rain protection is rivalled only by a certain British luxury car brand. Although special coach-built Superb models of the 1930s often featured built-in umbrellas, it was the first new-era Superb of 2001 that offered the feature as standard. Since then, the built-in umbrella has been an integral part of ŠKODA’s Simply Clever package for the Superb. The current model features two brollies neatly incorporated into the front door structures and is offered as standard from SE models upwards.

Fascinating umbrella facts:

• The word umbrella derives from the Latin umbra, meaning shaded or shadow.
• Kersey’s Dictionary, published in 1708, describes an umbrella as a "screen commonly used by women to keep off rain"
• The first lightweight folding umbrella in Europe was introduced in 1710 by French   entrepreneur Jean Marius
• National Umbrella Day is held on February 10 each year around the world