|
Skoda
Octavia: The most beautiful car
By Sun News Publishing
Friday
February 22, 2008
 |
| Photo:
Sun News Publishing |
|
|
Czech Republic’s Skoda has continued to throw everything
into proving that the old days are over, and that this is
an era of using revolutionary technology to make cars that
not only please the users, but also attract accolades.
This is a salient feature of the new dawn ushered in by the
buy-over of the Prague-based auto maker by the Volkswagen
Group of Germany in the mid 1990s. The change in status was
followed by the building of a new plant considered one of
the most modern in the global industry.
It was from the plant that the Volkswagen’s technology
and experience interplay with Skoda’s expertise and
tradition to roll out modern cars, starting with Felicia,
then Fabia, Octavia and later Superb, thus pushing into history
the era of making cars that were mocked across the world,
including Nigeria (remember Favorite, 120 L, etc)?
Particularly interesting is the way Octavia has continued
to drive through the streets in a blaze glory, impressing
car buyers and winning one accolade after another in different
parts of the world.
Skoda Octavia can win an award for the most honoured car in
the world. Reason: Within a period of three years, 2004 to
2007, the car won no fewer than 14 top awards in many parts
of the world.
The list includes: World Most Beautiful Car (Italy 2004);
Autobild Golden Wheel Award, (Germany) 2004; Car of the Year
Award (Lithuania), 2004; Auto 1 Europe Award (Geneva), 2005;
Car of the Year Award (Bosnia and Herzegovina),2005; and Car
of the Year Award (Bulgaria), 2005.
The Octavia also won Autem ROku (Czech Republic) 2005; Best
Car in its Category (Great Britain), 2005; Over Drive Automotive
Technology of the Year Award (India), 2006; and ND TV Profit
Car India, Executive Car of the Year Award, 2006.
The best of the awards are: CNBC-TV 18 Auto Car Most Technology
Advanced Car award, 2006;The Most Well-build Luxury Car (Auto
Car magazine), April 2004; and Best Design and Style of the
Year.
It is not for nothing that the Octavia, which is available
in Combi version, as well as in Ambiente, Comfort and Elegance
trim/equipment levels, is winning hearts.
The 1.6 litre SOHC engine car with six-speed tiptronic gear
has a host of features. Some of them are tilt-adjustable power
steering, power windows (front and rear), electric mirror
adjuster, central lock, A/C, sound system with CD player and
FM/AM radio, dual SRS airbags and anti-lock braking system
(ABS).
Computerized immobilizer system, light tinted window glasses,
two radio wave remote control keys, roof antenna, high ground
clearance, spot light, rear A/C outlet, fog camp and cool
box are other provisions the car flaunts.
Though the Skoda brand is yet to hit the sales volume competitors
like Honda, Toyota and Peugeot have been able to achieve,
a source at Skoda World, the official marker in Nigeria, said,
“things are going to be different this year”.
Daily Sun was informed that the brand’s customers “enjoy
comprehensive after-sales support and warranty”, in
the country.
|
