Skoda's large saloon, the Superb, is to be offered with Tiptronic automatic transmission. This gearbox, as used in numerous Audi and Volkswagen models, combines a fully auto mode and sequential 'manual' shifts, and will be offered with either the 1.8T turbo or 1.9 TDI PD diesel engines from the beginning of 2004. The 2.5-litre V6 diesel engine has been modified to produce 163 bhp, replacing the previous 155 bhp V6 unit, with torque increasing from 310Nm to 350Nm, and fuel consumption improving to 40.9 mpg. Acceleration 0-60 mph is improved by 0.3 seconds to 9.2 sec. This engine has revised air coolers, a new throttle valve, revised fuel injector nozzles and pump, cooling of exhaust gas recirculation, a redesigned cylinder head and new engine management software, and unlike its outgoing counterpart, it meets the Euro IV emissions legislation. Superb models with this engine have six-speed transmission as standard. All Superb variants now feature the EOBD (European On Board Diagnostics) system, which monitors emissions and warns the driver if tailpipe output exceeds certain levels. Other new features include the Dual Rate Braking Assistant, which boosts brake pedal pressure and evens it out, with differing levels of assistance according to pedal pressure, a new optional TV tuner, available in combination with the sat nav system, a electric sunroof with solar panels, which store energy to power the ventilation system, and a simpler navigation aid called SatCompass, with turn-by-turn instructions. A new multi-function key has a button to open or close all the side windows remotely.

Skoda is upgrading the safety kit on its Fabia supermini for next year, albeit in terms of optional, rather than standard, items. A third three-point seatbelt and headrest can be ordered for the centre seat in the rear, and ESP (electronic stability programme) is now optional with the 1.4 16v, 1.4 TDI PD and 1.9 TDI PD models, as well as 2.0-litre and RS versions; this comes in combination with ABS anti-lock brakes and skid reduction/traction control. Most Fabia engines now have a 'variable extended inspection interval', with servicing as indicated by the on-board computer; this can now be at intervals of up to 30,000km for petrol and 50,000km for diesel models. Two new equipment packages will be offered: Dynamic I, with sports front seats, a black interior and a three-spoke sports steering wheel, and Dynamic 2, with additional 15-inch alloy wheels. A new navigation system, TMC, is available, with traffic information channels as well as route guidance. Further new options for the Fabia include a tyre repair kit, three new metallic colours (Graphite Grey, Beige Sahara and Red Flamenco) and a load divider net in estate (Combi) versions.

Octavia models also gain the EOBD monitor, top-spec Laurin & Klement versions are now offered with a black leather/alcantara interior as well as beige, and Graphite Grey metallic paint joins the options list.

Nowt much for the Octy ? :(

Oooh interesting news .

Well what do you expect -- they are not going to spend much on the old model,when the new model is just around the corner.

God know's it will be costing them enough to build the new one as it is.

Oh bugger !!

Andy

In France this week had a look in a Skoda dealer other than seeing a Fabia RS in black I noticed in a new Superb Classic that there was a rear sun blind as standard in the rear window it has a slot in the parcel shelf so its roller is hidden and clips on the roof lining, I guess this is a new feature - not seen it before - noticed it in an Audi however.

John

All new bigger better Octavia due out marchish next year anyway, as usual no details out yet, but watch this space, dealer inside info.