Facelifted Skoda Superb likely to arrive at Auto Expo 2014

The upcoming Auto Expo is expected to showcase a multitude of new concepts and designs, all under one roof. Commencing on 7th February, it is anticipated to witness an assemblage of auto fanatics and media personal, striving to get a glimpse of latest innovations. Recent reports have suggested that Czech auto major Skoda will be displaying the facelifted version of its premium sedan, Superb at the auto fiesta. The auto manufacturer along with its vast fan base are all peered into this jubilant occasion and are eagerly waiting for the car to arrive in a new avatar. However, Skoda Superb will be much more than a cosmetic touch to the face. It is believed to exhibit latest features assisted by advanced technologies, which are employed meticulously by Czech innovators.

For starters, it will be provided with revised bumpers and upgraded fenders to enhance the outlooks. The front grille will have a new trendy attire along with the iconic Skoda logo mounted on a sleek chrome strip. The layout is expected to be aerodynamically supplemented with flares to properly channelise air gush at high speed. LED's have been a primary choice for the auto maker and the same is expected to be seen in the car. Bi-xenon headlights will be integrated with LED for daytime running. Rear end has been tweaked, which now slightly resembles to Audi A4 and A6. Also, sources are surmising that the framework of new Skoda Superb has been derived from the recently launched next generation Skoda Octavia.

Interiors include newly designed four-spoke steering wheel with consoles mounted over it. Also a refurbished chrome pointed gear lever will be intensifying the interior looks along with upgraded leather upholstery and extra compartments for small luggage. Colour scheme of brown-ivory is expected to accommodate high-end variants of this car. Height adjustment driver seat with new infotainment system and snazzy looking consoles are also expected to be basic provisions. Also, options of sunroof and multi-spoke alloy wheels with newly developed mudflaps will be available for elite class consumers. In European market, new Skoda Superb will be available with options of solar cell integrated sun roof, new-generation park assist and brake regeneration system. It will be an astonishing sight to witness these features in Indian version of this car.

Under the hood, new Skoda Superb will arrive with options of a 1.8-litre petrol engine producing 158 bhp and 2.0-litre diesel mill developing 138 bhp. Former will be assisted with either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic gearbox, whereas latter will be melded with a 6-speed manual/automatic gearbox. Also, recent reports have revealed that engine might be retuned along with upgraded suspension to deliver high performance on almost all terrains. This car is also expected to be efficient in fuel economy statistics as against its previous generation version. However, the auto maker has not officially divulged any proposals regarding the manufacturing of its new creation and therefore, it is anticipated to be brought as a Completely Knocked Down (CKD) unit. Therefore, a rise in price of the new version Skoda Superb is on the check-list of the industry experts.

Skoda has not seen exemplary figures in its annual sales last year but plans to intensify its brand image in Indian market. Experts are of a view that new Skoda Superb will be facing serious competition from next generation Honda Accord, Volkswagen Passat and Hyundai Sonata. All these rivals are installed with up-to-date innovations from their respective car makers and it will be interesting to see what tactics are implemented by Skoda to vanquish the premium sedan segment.