Skoda renews Kodiaq, Superb; expands plug-in hybrids

Skoda is adding a plug-in hybrid variant to its Kodiaq midsize SUV for the first time.

The new Kodiaq SUV will go on sale in the autumn with plug-in and mild-hybrid variants, Skoda said in a statement.

The brand’s latest-generation Superb midsize car will launch at the same time.

Currently only the Superb and the Octavia compact car are available with plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid technology.

The new models will continue to be available with diesel engines, Skoda said. Skoda is one of few volume automakers continuing to offer midsize SUV models with combustion engines.

The Kodiaq and Superb continue to be “cornerstones” of the Skoda range, CEO Klaus Zellmer said in the statement.

Skoda previewed each model with a teaser silhouette hinting at the design of both cars.

As well as a new exterior look, each model comes with a completely redesigned interior as well as improved technology and new features, Skoda said in the statement, without going into detail.

The Superb will continue to be available as a station wagon and a hatchback, Skoda said.

The Superb will be built alongside the VW Passat in Bratislava, Slovakia, after Volkswagen Group decided to move production of the Passat from Emden, Germany, and the Superb from Skoda’s plant in Kvasiny, Czech Republic.

The Passat will only be available as a wagon after VW decided to cancel the sedan amid shrinking demand for midsize cars.

Skoda has led development of the new generations of the Superb and Passat.

The Kodiaq will continue to be built in Kvasiny, Skoda said.

The Kodiaq was Europe’s best-selling midsize volume SUV in the first three months, with sales up 19 percent to 17,168, according to figures from market analysts Dataforce. Half of all Kodiaq sales are the seven-seat version. A five-seater is also available.

The Superb was the second-best seller in Europe’s midsize car segment behind the VW Passat in the first quarter. Superb sales rose 9.2 percent to 10,130. Passat sales were 15,092, up from 14,379 in the same quarter last year.