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 latest Skoda Kodiaq SE Technology comes with more it, better tech and more efficient.

• Kodiaq SE Technology from £26,860 to £28,345 for 5 seat versions and £27,860 to £29,345 for 7 seat versions.
• Competitive Whole Life Costs for fleets and low running costs for drivers
• Innovative technology as standard to keep business connected on the move
• Available with a 2.0-litre diesel 150PS engine and choice of front and four-wheel drive and manual or DSG gearboxes.

ŠKODA launches specially configured Kodiaq SE Technology for business customers. Combining sleek design, ample interior space and simply clever innovations ensures the latest addition to the Kodiaq range is an ideal companion for business users.

A highly competitive vehicle, the Kodiaq SE Technology 2.0-litre TDI 150PS DSG offers the perfect rational and emotive balance for corporate fleets, small businesses and company car drivers. Emitting 131 g/km of CO2, the Kodiaq has a P11d value of just £26,860 and BIK of 28%. In addition, the Kodiaq boasts low VED rates, SMR costs and greater fuel efficiency than its leading competitors keeping Whole Life Costs low for the duration of ownership.

SE Technology includes a host of innovative tech as standard to support business on the move. ŠKODA Connect turns the Kodiaq into a fully connected vehicle with Infotainment Online providing satellite navigation, traffic reports and calendar updates. Drivers can instantly sync contacts from their phone to the car, which can be accessed via steering wheel controls or voice activation for a safer way to make calls on the road.

As an option for fleets regularly undergoing long distances, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) can be added to assist the driver in maintaining the selected speed and desired gap between the ŠKODA Kodiaq and the car in front.

The versatile Kodiaq is available in both five and seven seat variants, and boasts one of the largest load spaces in its class - perfect whether transporting goods or passengers. Kodiaq features 720/630/270 litres of boot space with the rear seats up and 2,065/2,005 litres with the seats down in the five and seven seat models, respectively. The SE Technology model also comes with front and rear parking sensors as standard. Further equipment, such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, can detect dangerous situations involving pedestrians or other vehicles in front of the car, and can automatically apply the brakes

Henry Williams, ŠKODA Head of Fleet, comments: “We’re already seeing excellent growth in fleet channels, and the Kodiaq is an important addition to our fleet model range for 2017. The overwhelming interest we have had in Kodiaq proves the car’s mix of smart tech, safety kit and sleek design is appealing and combined with competitive Whole Life Costs, makes it the perfect fit for business.”

SEAT announces pricing & specification for the ALl-New 5th Generation Ibiza Supermini.

• UK order books now open for All-new SEAT Ibiza ahead of showroom arrival on 21 July, priced from only £13,130
• Fifth generation of SEAT’s best-selling supermini makes significant advances in all areas – style, quality, performance, handling, refinement and technology
• All-new Ibiza debuts new Volkswagen Group MQB A0 platform
• New model set to add impetus to SEAT’s record-breaking sales performance, alongside the hugely successful New Leon and Ateca ranges
• Launched exclusively as a five-door model with a choice of five trim levels and four petrol engines, led by new high-efficiency 1.0 three-cylinder units

The countdown has started for the most important event of the year so far for SEAT, with first orders being taken this week for the All-new SEAT Ibiza. The arrival of the hotly anticipated new model this summer promises to add even more impetus to the remarkable sales success the stylish Spanish brand is enjoying nationwide.

“Ibiza is an iconic model for SEAT, a best-seller that’s been at the heart of our line-up for more than 30 years,” said Richard Harrison, Director, SEAT UK. “With that kind of heritage, you can be sure the new model will be a benchmark car, taking SEAT quality, design, engineering and technology to an even higher level.

“The New Leon range and the Ateca, our first SUV, have set the scene perfectly, generating huge customer response and helping raise UK sales to record heights already this year. The All-new Ibiza will complete a powerful trio at the heart of our brand and we cannot wait to introduce it to British buyers.”

Early reports from British media experts who were first to get behind the wheel signal just how good a car the latest Ibiza promises to be. Auto Express magazine declared it “sets the class standard” for superminis, while What Car? reports that it’s “great to look at and to drive – one of the best small cars you can buy”.

In terms of street appeal, the All-new Ibiza – now exclusively a five-door – is every inch a modern SEAT, designed and developed in Barcelona. Sporty, edgy lines combine with sculpted bodywork to give the car striking, eye-catching appeal, with a clear bloodline link to the cool styling cues established with the new Leon and Ateca, and further distinguishing SEAT as a leader in contemporary car design. Hot new exterior colours and a class-leading eight-inch infotainment screen have been added too, to keep Ibiza firmly on-trend with current tastes.

It’s what lies beneath the skin, however, that defines the All-new Ibiza’s quality as a car that is dynamically rewarding to drive and also remarkably spacious within its compact body. It has the distinction of being the first model to be built on a new modular Volkswagen Group vehicle platform, MQB A0.

The new underpinnings are the key to making the latest Ibiza a lithe performer around urban streets and an engaging proposition when out on the open road. 

They also allow for an exceptionally spacious cabin in a car that’s actually shorter than the one it replaces: with width increased by 87mm, 60mm added to the wheelbase and 35mm more rear legroom, comfortable accommodation is guaranteed. And there’s more room in the boot, too, with an extra 63 litres available.

The All-new Ibiza arrives at launch with a choice of four petrol engines, majoring on a new 1.0-litre three-cylinder unit, engineered to deliver a compelling mix of economy and spirited performance. In standard form it will produce a useful 75PS, while turbo versions will offer 95 and 115PS – the latter reserved for the sporty FR model with a six-speed manual or sophisticated dual-clutch automatic transmission. 

Official benchmark figures indicate combined cycle fuel consumption from 60.1 mpg and 106 g/km of CO2 (1.0 TSI 95PS). To add an extra performance dimension to the range, the FR will also be available with a potent 150PS 1.5 EVO engine, while diesels will be added to the line-up later in the year.

The breadth of choice takes in five trim levels and top quality equipment specifications that keep the All-new Ibiza firmly in the frame when it comes to today’s customer preferences on technology, “always-on” connectivity, in-car entertainment, comfort and safety. At entry point, the S version keeps things simple and smart, with features including air conditioning, electric front windows, automatic headlights, Bluetooth and advanced safety features including Front Assist. 

Moving up to SE grade delivers a wealth of extra features: 15-inch alloys, front fog lights with cornering function, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control and multi-coloured ambient cabin lighting are all included, together with SEAT’s Media System Colour multimedia package.

The new SE Technology is the expected top pick for UK buyers, coming equipped with Media System Plus with eight-inch colour touchscreen, navigation with 3D map display, voice recognition, DAB digital radio and two USB ports. 

The FR focuses on sportier looks with 17-inch alloys, dark-tinted rear glass, brilliant black and chrome bodywork details and twin exhausts; likewise, the cabin is fitted with sports front seats and flat-bottom steering wheel and Full Link smartphone integration. 

in sports suspension, rear disc brakes and SEAT Drive Profile with four selectable drive modes and you have a car that adds authentic performance to its arresting looks. 

XCELLENCE, new to Ibiza, tops out the range, with distinguishing features such as 16-inch machined alloy wheels, Atom Grey door mirror housings, Alcantara upholstery, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry-and-go, front and rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera.

A wealth of options extend the possibilities even further, including a Beats audio system – reflecting Ibiza’s status as having the youngest customer age profile of any UK supermini.

The new Ibiza range starts from £13,130 on the road. Orders can be placed now with the first cars in UK showrooms on 21 July.

FLEET WORLD - The Skoda Superb flagship model takes best upper medium car 2017

• ŠKODA flagship crowned Fleet World Best Upper Medium Car 2017
• Superb retains title it first won in 2016
• Judges praise Superb’s practicality and value for money
• Superb SE Technology models designed for business customers

The ŠKODA Superb has added to its incredible list of industry and media accolades with another awards win. Fleet World magazine has awarded ŠKODA’s flagship model its Best Upper Medium car title for the second year in succession – confirming its status as one of the most accomplished all-rounders in the sector.

Commenting on the Superb’s triumph, the Fleet World Honours judging panel concluded: “With its upmarket styling, cavernous interior space and incredible value for money, the Superb punches well above its weight in this segment. 

Factor in some great engine options and it’s impossible to argue with, increasingly taking customers from premium brands and with sales weighted towards higher trim levels.”

Since its launch in 2015, the Superb has won 19 UK automotive industry titles, including Scottish Car of the Year, Auto Express Best Family Car and Estate Car, The Telegraph Best Family Car and What Car? Best Estate Car. 

The Superb has proved to an exceptionally popular choice with fleet operators and company car drivers since its introduction. 

Along with the Yeti and Octavia, the Superb range features a special SE Technology trim grade that has been specifically fine-tuned to meet the demands of fleet drivers and operators. For example, all Superb SE Technology models include Adaptive cruise control (ACC), Amundsen satellite navigation, SmartLink connectivity, Drive mode selection and Alcantara / leather upholstery. The Superb SE Technology GreenLine returns 76.4mpg and emits just 96g/km CO₂, further reducing running costs for business customers.

Superb SE Technology prices start from £22,780 for the hatch and £24,060 for the estate version.

WHAT CAR AWARDS - SEAT takes two awards this year, the Ateca and Leon are both winners.

• Ateca wins Small SUV category at first attempt
• New Leon celebrates Family Car ‘Best Buy’ victory (£18,000-£20,000)

SEAT is kicking off 2017 in style after driving off with two accolades at the What Car? Awards 2017, ‘Best Small SUV’ for Ateca, plus, a ‘Best Buy’ victory for New Leon, one month ahead of the car even launching in UK showrooms.

Ateca, SEAT’s in-demand first SUV wowed the judges across the board. Among its talents singled out for praise where its value for money, impressive driving experience and top-notch infotainment systems.

Steve Huntingford, What Car? Editor, commented, “SEAT has managed to price its Ateca keenly enough to appeal to a wide range of buyers looking for their ideal car. 

Not only does it have space and practicality in abundance, its robust interior should stand the test of time, and you get lots of kit. That you can also have a fuel-sipping petrol engine with impressive, yet quiet, performance for this money is a massive achievement.”

Its preferred version of the Barcelona-based brand’s high-selling Ateca, SE 1.4 EcoTSI 150, earned a ‘Best Buy £15,000-£25,000’ win initially, before fending off every other shortlisted SUV in its category, to secure the overall Small SUV title.

What Car? continued, “It’s extremely good fun to drive, with excellent body control and one of the best steering set-ups of the class. It’s genuinely agile, which is a rare thing for a small SUV.

“With our favoured 1.4 turbo petrol engine fitted, it has strong performance to match its sweet handling, but this is balanced with clever cylinder shut-off technology that helps deliver great fuel economy and low CO₂emissions. Inside, a family will have room to stretch out, particularly in the back, where leg room – even for adults – is generous. The large boot is easily accessible and a practical shape, too. Mid-range SE trim has all you’ll need too: 17-inch alloys, cruise and climate control, and an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a DAB radio, Bluetooth, and USB port.”

Sharing the limelight on the night was the New Leon. Recently updated ahead of its UK showroom launch next month, SEAT’s best-selling model earned a ‘Best Buy’ in the Family Car for the £18,000-£20,000 category.

Outlining the reasons behind the success of their favoured SEAT Leon version, SE Technology 1.0 TSI 115 Ecomotive, the What Car? team added,“…under the bonnet there’s a new 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine...with just enough punch to let you enjoy the Leon’s agile handling. The new 1.0 TSI engine is available in only one trim level: SE Technology. Fortunately, that rounds up most of the equipment you’re likely to want, including sat-nav, a DAB radio, air-con, alloy wheels and cruise control.”

Commenting on the brand’s success at the prestigious bash at the Grosvenor Hotel on London’s Park Lane last night, SEAT UK’s Head of Marketing, Andrew Tracey, added, “After What Car?’s own five-star review of the Ateca, we were quietly confident about its chances in this year’s awards. It offers everything a compact SUV buyer could ever need, with plenty of space, style, technology, quality, not to mention engines, transmissions and four-wheel-drive, to suit every conceivable need. So, naturally, I’m delighted that its breadth of talents has been recognised. For New Leon to collect a Best Buy win too, before it even arrives in UK showrooms, is the icing on the cake and gives us a fantastic platform upon which to build early success in 2017.”

Two new Octavia models give added equipment for little or not increase in cost.

• New SE Sport and SE Technology models added to the Octavia line-up
• SE Sport adds technology and design features, including Amundsen navigation with Wi-Fi
• SE Sport offers customer value of over £3,150 compared to standard SE
• SE Technology replaces SE Business grade and adds more kit and improved value
• Significant customer value for both retail buyers and company car drivers
• Wide range of engine and transmission options - hatch and Estate available

ŠKODA is adding two new trim levels to its best-selling Octavia range – SE Sport and SE Technology. Both new models offer significant equipment boosts over the standard SE models and have been created to satisfy buyer demands for the latest in-car technology and sporty design.

Priced from £19,990 OTR, the Octavia SE Sport is available in hatch and estate form and is offered with two engine options: 1.4 TSI 150PS and 1.6 TDI 110PS, with the option of a DSG gearbox on both. 

As part of the standard specification, SE Sport models stand out from the crowd thanks to 17-inch Denom alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, LED Daytime running lights with automatic activation and LED rear lights. 

 Inside, SE Sport models feature sport seats, a Super Sport Multi-Function Steering Wheel and an automatic dimming rear view mirror, while standard technology includes Amundsen satellite navigation system with Wi-Fi and cruise control.

Despite its raft of additional equipment offered on the SE Sport, it costs just £950 more than the standard SE. That means buyers choosing the SE Sport over the SE benefit from over £3,150 of customer value over the cost of individual options.

Joining the SE Sport in the expanded Octavia line-up is a new SE Technology model. It can be specified in hatch or estate forms, and is available with four TDI diesel options with power outputs ranging from 110PS to 150PS. 

The 1.6 TDI 110PS engine can be specified with a DSG automatic, customers can also choose the frugal GreenLine III engine that offers exceptional economy of up to 80.7mpg on the combined cycle and CO₂emissions of 90g/km.

Like the SE Sport model, the SE Technology comes with a specification list that’s bursting at the seams with equipment. 

Among the technology features included over the standard SE are an Amundsen satellite navigation system with Wi-Fi, a four-spoke Multifunction steering wheel, adaptive cruise control (standard cruise control on GreenLine III models) and front and rear parking sensors. 

The equipment list also features a Chrome pack and double-sided boot floor covering along with light and rain sensors.

The SE Technology replaces the current SE Business model and enjoys a specification that delivers significant value to company car drivers. 

Despite its increased specification – with options that would normally cost £1,830 on the standard SE – the SE Technology commands a premium of £275 over the outgoing model. This gives a customer saving of £1,155.

For company car drivers choosing the 1.6 TDI 110PS model, the benefits in terms of BiK payments are also significant. Drivers in the 20% tax bracket can save up to £177 a year, while drivers in the 40% tax bracket can save up to £355 when compared to the previous SE Business specified with the same additional equipment as the new SE Technology.

		CO2	Basic	VAT	RRP	OTR
Hatch SE Sport	1.4 TSI 150PS	118	£16,187.50	£3,237.50	£19,425.00	£19,990.00
	1.4 TSI 150PS DSG	112	£17,229.17	£3,445.83	£20,675.00	£21,240.00
	1.6 TDI 110PS	100	£16,925.00	£3,385.00	£20,310.00	£20,875.00
	1.6 TDI 110PS DSG	101	£17,966.67	£3,593.33	£21,560.00	£22,125.00
Estate SE Sport	1.4 TSI 150PS	119	£17,204.17	£3,440.83	£20,645.00	£21,210.00
	1.4 TSI 150PS DSG	114	£18,245.83	£3,649.17	£21,895.00	£22,460.00
	1.6 TDI 110PS	101	£17,941.67	£3,588.33	£21,530.00	£22,095.00
	1.6 TDI 110PS DSG	102	£18,983.33	£3,796.67	£22,780.00	£23,345.00

	Engine	CO2	Basic	VAT	RRP	OTR
Hatch SE Technology	1.6 TDI 110PS	99	£16,133.33	£3,226.67	£19,360.00	£19,925.00
	1.6 TDI 110PS DSG	99	£17,175.00	£3,435.00	£20,610.00	£21,175.00
	1.6 TDI 110PS GreenLine III	90	£16,383.33	£3,276.67	£19,660.00	£20,225.00
	2.0 TDI 150PS	106	£16,870.83	£3,374.17	£20,245.00	£20,810.00
Estate SE Technology	1.6 TDI 110PS	99	£17,150.00	£3,430.00	£20,580.00	£21,145.00
	1.6 TDI  110PS DSG	99	£18,191.67	£3,638.33	£21,830.00	£22,395.00
	1.6 TDI 110PS GreenLine III	90	£17,383.33	£3,476.67	£20,860.00	£21,425.00
	2.0 TDI 150PS	106	£17,887.50	£3,577.50	£21,465.00	£22,030.00

Both new models are available to order now.