The Volkswagen Group's vast portfolio contains hidden gems that are withheld from Americans. Some of those are under the tent of Škoda, the Czech brand that once was sold in Canada as the cheapest of cheap, but never made it to the States. After being taken over by Volkswagen and receiving the special attention of Ferdinand Piech, the brand went on an inexorable upwards trajectory. At this year's Geneva auto show, we can witness some of the latest—and rather impressive—results.
Start with the new Superb: Based on the VW Group's MQB architecture, Škoda's top-of-the-line sedan makes the European VW Passat look dull by comparison. While its predecessor, conceived under the watch of former Volkwagen CEO Bernd Pischetsrieder, was burdened with graceless lines and awkward proportions, the new Superb is angular, racy, and ultra-clean.
On the same architecture, but one segment below, the Škoda Octavia upholds the best Bauhaus design traditions. It's starting price undercuts the smaller VW Golf, but the Octavia reaches far into premium territory. The most impressive iteration is the Octavia RS 230, launched in Geneva with a 230-hp 2.0-liter TFSI. Coincidentally, it is also the fastest Škoda ever built, with a top speed of 155 mph.
Meanwhile, the nerdy Fabia, a cheaper but better-looking variation of the VW Polo theme, now comes in "Monte Carlo" trim, complete with black alloy wheels, a black roof, and tinted windows. Škoda has a strong rally history, so we suppose there is some merit to this special edition. We just wish that it packed more power.
- Video: You Won't Be Able to Take Your Eyes Off This Cheap Škoda Hatchback
- The Škoda VisionC Concept: A7 Looks, Golf Bones
- VW Passat Research: Full Pricing, Specs, Reviews, and More
We also wouldn't mind seeing some of these more obscure members of the VW Group family come to the U.S. at some point.
from Car and Driver Blog http://ift.tt/nSHy27
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