Skoda Auto launches a new petrol engine range for the Octavia and Superb models.

• ŠKODA fleet launches new petrol engine variants for Octavia and Superb SE Technology models
• Octavia engines include 1.0 TSI 115PS and 1.4 TSI 150PS
• All new Octavia 1.5 TSI 150PS available to order from 26 July
• Superb available with 1.4 TSI 150PS with either DSG or manual gearboxes
• State of the art technology and driver assist systems as standard across range

ŠKODA UK has launched petrol engine variants of the highly popular Octavia and Superb SE Tech models for fleet customers. Cost, practicality and safety are key components in the make-up of the models, designed with business customers in mind.

Fleet customers now have the option of petrol engines for both SE Tech hatch and estate models in the multi-award winning Octavia and Superb. The new generation direct-injection turbocharged TSI petrol engines offer drivers refinement, performance and flexibility, resulting in a quiet, fuel-efficient and dynamic drive, ideal for high-speed motorways or country and town roads.

The popular Octavia Estate 1.0 TSI 115PS DSG uses a seven speed automatic gearbox, which enables it to achieve up to 65.7 mpg on the combined cycle and 108 g/km CO2 with enough power to deliver 0-62 mph in just 10.2 seconds. The Estate model offers low p11d values starting from £20,755 with a BIK rate of 23%. Also available is the 1.4 TSI 150PS with manual and DSG gearbox. From 26 July, an all-new 1.5 litre engine featuring active cylinder technology (ACT) will join the line-up and will be available with a manual gearbox and offer p11d values starting at just £19,615 for the hatch and £20,815 for the estate. The DSG version will be introduced in the Autumn.

The ŠKODA Superb is available with a 1.4 TSI engine that delivers an impressive 150PS and achieves 0-62mph in less than nine seconds. Performance and practicality are combined with privacy glass and a leather and Alcantara interior, and the Estate boasts a class-leading 660 litre boot space (1,950 litres with the seats down).

Henry Williams, ŠKODA Head of Fleet, comments: “We have added petrol engines to the ŠKODA fleet range due to increasing demand from customers. Octavia and Superb already offer a formidable package and by adding even more choice we are demonstrating our commitment to respond to the changing market and the needs of our customers.”

Both Superb and Octavia are the perfect companions for business, combining useful tech and the spacious interior that is synonymous with the ŠKODA model line-up. Each features an 8-inch touchscreen navigation system as standard and the inclusion of SmartLink+ which links to both Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM, plus a MAXI-Dot Trip computer system, to bring the office on the road with you.

For peace of mind for drivers and fleet managers, the new Octavia offers a range of driver assist systems as standard to optimise driving efficiency and safety. Features include Front assist, which uses radar technology to monitor distances from the vehicle in front and will automatically slow the car down if it detects a possible collision. Front assist with pedestrian protection also warns the driver when a pedestrian attempts to dangerously cross the path of car, and will emit a combined audio and visual signal as well as a gentle jolt of the brakes to keep both parties safe.

As well as a class-leading boot space of 1,580 litres (hatch) with the seats down (590 with seats up) the new Octavia features LED daytime running lights, front and rear parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control – ideal to maintain efficiency on longer journeys.

The ŠKODA Superb’s award-winning design boasts technical sophistication too, with Wi-Fi and phone signal booster to keep drivers synced with their business whilst on the road, as well as a multifunctional steering wheel that connects to the 8-inch touch screen infotainment system. To make life even easier, additional features include, umbrellas in both front doors and keyless entry.

To help keep drivers alert and safe on the road, Superb offers Blind Spot Detection as well as Smart Light Assist, which enables the driver to see further ahead when driving in the dark and alerts to any upcoming obstacles. Traffic Jam assist uses sensors to detect your surroundings and automatically aligns you to the centre of the lane and assists in braking when traffic is slowing down or comes to a stop in front of you.

The Wörthersee VW Show gets to premiere the new UP! GTi amongst other premieres.

• Near-production prototype of the new up! GTI1 celebrates world premiere at Wörthersee as new member of the GTI family
• First Golf GTI wins special award as most influential car of all time in Great Britain
• Golf GTE Performance Concept2 with 272 PS plug-in hybrid drive system

The start of this year's GTI meet at Lake Wörthersee (24 to 27 May). Around 200,000 fans will again make the pilgrimage to Kärnten for the unique festival. Volkswagen will be there with several automotive surprises. For example, with the world premiere of the near-production prototype of the 85 kW / 115 PS up! GTI – a car that pays homage to the 110 PS original GTI from 1976. 

Just ahead of the start of the GTI meet, the latter has yesterday evening scooped a remarkable prize: as part of the publication's annual awards, readers of English motoring magazine Autocar crowned the first Golf GTI the most influential car of all time! 

Another world premiere at Wörthersee: the Golf GTE Performance Concept. Instead of 150 kW / 204 PS, the plug-in hybrid drive system of this concept car develops a system output of 200 kW / 272 PS. System torque rises from 350 to 450 Nm.

The new up! GTI – externally and internally similar in size to the original GTI – will extend Volkswagen's product range from the start of 2018, carrying on the doctrine of the lightweight, uncomplicated sports car in compact format. 

It is powered by a turbo engine (TSI) delivering a potent 200 Nm of torque. The benchmarking and performance figures read like those of a Golf GTI I catapulted into the modern era. Weight: 997 kg. Top speed: 197 km/h.

0-100 km/h: 8.8 seconds. Colours: again classic and typical for the GTI – the single colours of tornado red and pure white, plus the metallic colours of dark silver, black pearl and – as a new GTI shade – costa azul (blue). 

This most powerful up! can be identified by the typical GTI insignia. At the front, for instance, it is the red lateral stripe in the honeycomb-patterned radiator grille. 

Incorporated above it: the GTI logo. On the sides it is the black double lateral stripes over the wide side sill shrouds, where the new up! draws directly on the original GTI. The 17-inch alloy wheels have also been redesigned. They look particularly snappy within the wheel arches, as the up! GTI has a sports running gear set 15 mm lower. 

GTI features characterise the rear as well: here these include once again a red stripe and a larger roof spoiler that provides greater downforce on the rear axle and thus optimised handling characteristics. In the interior the typical features include the leather sports steering wheel, a GTI gear lever knob and the legendary 'Clark' seat cover pattern.

With regards to the details of the Golf GTE Performance Concept, one thing is clear: GTE3 has always stood for sustainability and dynamic handling. That is reflected too in the new Wörthersee concept car. 

While the classic GTI and the semi-electric GTE are based on a similar concept, the drive systems differ and on the GTE all the red GTI insignia are blue. With the new prototype of the Golf GTE Performance Concept, Volkswagen is now presenting an idea of how the Golf GTE, which can drive up to 50 kilometres in all-electric mode, could be further developed.

Externally the Golf GTE Performance Concept painted in Electric White Mother of Pearl Effect draws admiring looks with a black roof, blue elements in silhouette, black wing mirrors, air deflector elements in the front bumper painted in gloss black, side sills in the same gloss colour and blue-and-black 19-inch Pretoria wheels.

To accompany the increased power, Volkswagen provides large 17-inch brakes (discs perforated, callipers in 'GTE blue'), sports running gear and wheel spacers. 

At the rear features such as the exhaust tailpipes and diffuser of the Golf GTI and the roof edge spoiler of the legendary Golf GTI Clubsport mark out the GTE Performance version. On the inside it is details such as exclusive leather sports seats and a multifunction steering wheel in 'alcantara' with blue '12 o'clock marking', with which the powerful concept car will be appearing at the GTI festival in the Austrian village of Reifnitz.

1 + 2 up! GTI and Golf GTE Performance Concept: these vehicles have not yet gone on sale and therefore Directive 1999/94 EC does not apply.

3 Golf GTE – fuel consumption combined 1.6 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 36 g/km; electricity consumption combined 11.4 kWh/100 km; efficiency class: A+.

The updated LEON family gets sharper looks, better tech, new engines and is an allround better car.

• New SEAT Leon receives subtly updated design with greater elegance and dynamism
• Raft of new additions across the range, including new engines, state-of-the-art technology such as Connectivity Box, and an array of assistance systems, including Blind Spot Detection
• New engines including 1.0 115PS for first time in UK, as well as 1.6 TDI 115PS
• Luxury XCELLENCE trim level also joins the fold
• New Leon CUPRA family with “its own surprises” debuts in early 2017
• New Leon launches in UK showrooms in February 2017. Full range pricing and specification to be released closer to launch

SEAT is continuing its relentless product offensive with the unveiling of the New Leon, ahead of its launch in early 2017. The latest incarnation of the Barcelona-based brand’s best-selling model already has a multi-award-winning recipe , blending key ingredients of comfort, technology and quality, with emotional design and driving pleasure. The successful “Leon formula” Is now having a drop of extra technology and design added to the mix.

“With the New SEAT Leon, we want to continue the success story of one of SEAT’s most emblematic models, including further technologies in terms of driving assistance systems, safety systems and, of course, connectivity” added the Vice-President for R&D, Dr. Matthias Rabe.

A sharper, even more harmonious design

Without a doubt, one of the main reasons for the current Leon’s success has been its striking and high quality design, so, for 2017, some subtle changes have been added. SEAT Design Director, Alejandro Mesonero Romanos, affirmed, “The Leon is a very attractive model and it isn’t necessary to change its image, only reinforce it, refresh it. The objective is to harmonise all parts of it, in particular the front and the rear, with the sides of the car.”

For that reason, the front and rear have sharper, more assertive lines than the current model, with incisive lateral lines that are less distinct at the front and rear. The intention has been to emphasise this sharp image, achieving it with a more coherent look. It is noticeable especially in the new bumper design. Another goal was to increase the perceived size of the car, stretching the grille an extra 40mm in a richer chrome, like that more traditionally found on more expensive, larger cars. The character has also been reinforced as much inside as outside in terms of quality. It is worth noting too, that the new Leon is also even quieter than before. Inside the car, the ambient lighting LEDs’ intensity can be regulated as the driver wishes from the newly designed eight-inch screen, which eliminates the need for many of the buttons and dials on the current model.

The new, improved exterior lights are particularly noteworthy thanks to new rear lights and headlights complete with Full-LED technology. LED technology has also been used in the indicators and fog lights.

The latest in driver assistance and connectivity technology

Following the launch of the Ateca with such a vast range of driver assistance systems, it’s now the Leon’s turn to take onboard the latest technological developments. For example, Traffic Jam Assist, a function that offers great comfort in traffic with frequent and intermittent stops. Thanks to the combination of Lane Assist and ACC, in traffic jams the car manoeuvres, accelerates and brakes automatically within the limits of the system. Up to 37 mph, the system provides assistance with speed while keeping the car in the correct lane. Another added feature is the Pedestrian Protection System which recognises vehicles, as well as pedestrians, ensuring that safety is paramount both in the city and on the motorway.

Further new systems include Traffic Sign Recognition, Blind Spot Detection, and the most advanced parking assist technology with both bay and parallel parking, Emergency Assist and High Beam Assist. The camera and navigation systems have been improved too, to now recognise a higher number of traffic signs. The New SEAT Leon also includes a new centre console with an Electric Parking Brake.

The New SEAT Leon offers the very highest level of connectivity. Its myriad systems include the latest generation of Easy Connect infotainment systems, SEAT Full Link and the exclusive SEAT ConnectApp that comes with voice recognition and gesture control technology, allowing functions to be activated with just a finger swipe on the touchscreen. The Media System Plus, with its eight-inch screen, is the highlight of the former. The New SEAT Leon has, for the very first time, a Connectivity Box in the central console that enables wireless smartphone charging. Not forgetting SEAT Full Link, which opens up the world of connectivity for users of virtually all smartphones. Alongside MirrorLink, Full Link also incorporates the functions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For areas with low satellite reception, the system also comes equipped with a GSM signal booster.

New engines and the new XCELLENCE trim

The new SEAT Leon will be offered with five trim levels at UK launch: S, SE Dynamic, SE Technology, FR and the new XCELLENCE. The new highlight is the latter with its distinctive upmarket feel, including luxurious upholstery (Alcantara and leather as an optional), extensive trim elements and multi-colour ambient interior lighting. On the outside, it gleams with a chrome design front grille, new front and rear bumpers, and also comes with rear LED indicators. On the inside, it benefits from an aluminium XCELLENCE kickplate, LED interior illumination pack and KESSY (Keyless Enter and Go).

The New SEAT Leon’s range of Euro 6 compliant engines satisfies a wide range of needs. The TDI engine range begins with a 1.6 90 PS and goes up to the 2.0 184 PS, plus, it includes a new 1.6 115 PS powertrain. In terms of petrol power, the New Leon’s options range from 110 to 180 PS, with a new 1.0 litre TSI three-cylinder 115 PS for the UK being the latest addition.

When it comes to gearboxes, the range includes five- or six-speed manual units, all well as double-clutch DSG with six- or seven-speeds.

The New SEAT Leon will be available in the three existing body types; five-door, SC (Sports Coupé) and ST (Sports Tourer).

In summary, the New Leon boasts an updated design, an even broader range of efficient engines, plus, a raft of advanced technology, to keep it at the top of the class.

A new Leon CUPRA will be available in the near future, complete with its own surprises. But that’s a story for another day.

Multi-talented Ateca to achieve stunning and class-leading RV of up to 59% after three years/30,000 miles, according to CAP.

• Multi-talented Ateca to achieve stunning and class-leading RV of up to 59% after three years/30,000 miles, according to CAP
• Stylish Ateca range achieves average forecast RV of 52.6%, rivalling some of the most prestigious brands on the market 
• Impressive RV forecast, means equally strong UK finance offers for Ateca. PCP available from just £299 per month (36 month/10,000 miles per annum agreement. 4.9% APR representative)
• Award-winning Ateca delivers low running costs, backed up by confirmed emissions of as low as 113 g/km CO₂ and MPG of up to 65.7 (combined cycle)
• Class-leading connectivity and technology, including award-winning SEAT Full Link and Wireless Charger, plus Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Top View Camera. Plus, capacious boot space of up to 510 litres
• Keen pricing starts at £17,990 in the UK; order book open now ahead of official launch on 9^thSeptember

SEAT’s brand new Ateca SUV is already basking in the glory of its first award, even before it’s landed in showrooms. Now, it’s revelling in the limelight as the best performing SEAT model in history for a residual value (RV) forecast from leading industry experts, CAP.

Automotive data expert, CAP, has announced that the new SEAT Ateca, the Barcelona-based brand’s first SUV, is anticipated to deliver exceptional residual values that are either best, or podium ranking, depending on trim level and engine. The 1.0 TSI S, for example, is set to retain a stunning 59 per cent after three years/30,000 miles.

The SEAT Ateca already delivers on a whole host of levels, whether it’s comfort, quality, style, technology, let alone value-for-money. Now, its low running cost argument becomes even more compelling, with an impressive 52.6% of its value on average across the range after three years/30,000 miles.

The outcome of CAP’s forecasting comes as the Ateca is already drawing plenty of plaudits from the motoring press with various five-star verdicts, as well as achieving the highest possible score in the Euro NCAP safety test programme, with particularly strong adult and child passenger safety.

Underlining the Ateca’s impressive running cost credentials is its official CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption figures; with up to 65.7 miles per gallon on the combined cycle in 1.6 TDI 115 PS manual guise, while emitting just 113 grams per kilometre of CO₂. The entry-level petrol engine is a turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder TSI unit, which also produces 115 PS, offering combined fuel economy of 54.3 mpg and CO₂ emissions of just 119 g/km in ‘S’ trim. Even the powerful 2.0 TDI 150 PS 4Drive (four-wheel-drive) XCELLENCE manual can achieve 55.4 mpg and emits just 129 g/km of CO₂.

SEAT UK Director, Richard Harrison, commented, “The news for Ateca just keeps getting better and better. Only two weeks ago, it was named Best Crossover in the Auto Express New Car Awards 2016, and now we’re celebrating an RV forecast just shy of 60%. Mind you, it really is a great all-round proposition, with substance to back up its undeniable style. That probably goes a long way to explaining why it’s already generating the highest level of interest we’ve ever seen for a new SEAT model in the UK.”

As if the odds were not already stacked in the SEAT Ateca’s favour, with such strong predicted RVs, the Spanish marque has also launched an exciting series of UK finance offers for its latest model, with pricing from as little as £279 per month, based on SE 1.6 TDI 115PS, 36 month, 10,000 mile per annum agreement – without metallic paint

Solutions Personal Contract Plan* representative example for Ateca SE 1.6 TDI 115PS (including metallic paint) subject to a 36 month/10,000 mile per annum agreement:

Duration	36 months
APR (representative)	4.9%
35 monthly payments of	£299
Customer deposit	£3,299
Option to purchase fee*/acceptance fee**	£10/£0
OTR price (retail)	£22,475
Optional final payment	£10,855.06
Total amount payable by customer	£24,629.06
Amount of credit	£19,176

Ahead of launch on 9 September 2016, five SEAT Atecas have set off on a tour of every SEAT UK showroom for exclusive preview events.

• Ahead of launch on 9 September 2016, five SEAT Atecas have set off on a tour of every SEAT UK showroom for exclusive preview events
• Ateca has already generated huge customer interest (more than 13,000 customer enquiries) and collected its first award (Auto Express magazine 2016 “Best Crossover”), even before launch
• Extensive model range includes four trim levels, 4Drive all-wheel-drive versions, five diesel and petrol engines from 115 to 190 PS,  plus extensive comfort, style and tech options and accessories

UK consumer interest in its new Ateca is already higher than for any other car in its history, so to boost it even further, SEAT is dispatching a fleet of its new SUV on a far-reaching tour.

Ahead of its showroom launch on 9 September, several SEAT Atecas, one of this year’s most eagerly-awaited new cars, will be travelling the length and breadth of the UK. Between now and 15 August, five range-topping XCELLENCE versions will be pit-stopping at every dealership. From Aberdeen and Carlisle in the north, to Llandudno in the West, right down to Poole in the South.

Giving potential buyers their first chance to get up close and personal with SEAT’s first SUV, and on the back of its first award, “Best Crossover” in Auto Express magazine’s 2016 New Car Awards, the Barcelona-based marque will be looking to translate its sizeable customer enquiry bank (over 13,000) into firm orders.

Speaking about the ambitious tour, Steve Catlin, Head of Sales Operations, SEAT UK, said: “There has been a tremendous buzz about the Ateca, even before the British public have been able to see or drive it, so we are sure that having it on display in every showroom will generate huge interest. There is a lot to be excited about, as our first SUV delivers on every front – cool styling, great performance, excellent equipment, quality, practicality and technology. And, crucially, superb value-for-money.”

The new SEAT Ateca comes comprehensively equipped, so the display cars will reflect the hi-tech and upmarket approach with full LED headlamps, KESSY (keyless entry and stop/start), leather upholstery, plus, chrome-finished roof rails and ambient LED interior lighting with a choice of colours. They will also be showcasing some of the myriad attractive and useful options available. Among them are eye-catching bi-colour alloy wheels, Top View Camera, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert to help with safe manoeuvring and an electric tailgate with “virtual pedal” operation to help with those laden down with bags.

True to SEAT’s “Technology to Enjoy” ethos, the Ateca offers a comprehensive array of tech features for information, entertainment and connectivity on the move, all operated with ease using touchscreen controls. There is also SEAT Drive Profile, which lets the driver choose from different modes to adapt vehicle performance and settings to suit the conditions or personal preference, including snow and off-road modes on 4Drive models.

Rounding off the appeal of the new SEAT Ateca is its top five-star rating, announced recently by Euro NCAP. Testament to its all-round safety excellence, every model in the range comes with a high-tech safety package as standard, including sophisticated driver assistance systems designed to help prevent accidents, as well as minimising the consequences if an impact does occur.

The model-line-up for the UK includes both two-wheel and 4Drive all-wheel drive versions. There is a choice of two petrol turbo and three turbodiesel engines across a power range from 115 to 190 PS, with combined fuel economy of up to 65.7 mpg and CO₂ emissions from 113 g/km. According to engine, customers can also choose between six-speed manual and SEAT’s smooth DSG automatic transmission.

Four trim levels and a wide selection of optional extras and accessories add to the breadth of choice on offer. On-the-road prices for SEAT Ateca start at just £17,990, with order books open now.