Subaru’s First Global All-Electric Vehicle SOLTERRA Makes World Debut

Subaru’s First Global All-Electric Vehicle SOLTERRA Makes World Debut

by | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog

— New Addition to Subaru SUV Lineup in BEV Form —

Subaru Corporation today unveiled the new battery electric vehicle (BEV) SOLTERRA.

In developing SOLTERRA, the brand’s first BEV to be launched globally, Subaru aimed to exceed the various customer expectations for BEVs and make it a practical vehicle so that customers can choose it comfortably and confidently, as the vehicle will be the cornerstone of Subaru’s future BEVs. At the same time, as a Subaru SUV, Subaru aimed to make it a vehicle that existing Subaru customers can feel that it truly is a Subaru.

By filling it with new values that a BEV can offer and the value of “enjoyment and peace of mind” that Subaru have cultivated over many years, SOLTERRA has been built as an authentic SUV in an environmentally friendly package that can be used with peace of mind like the existing Subaru SUV models.          

Exterior and Interior

  • The seamlessly shaped hexagon grille expresses the energy efficiency of a BEV. The body with the horizontal axis starting from that hexagon and the dynamic fenders bulging out from the inside show the strength as an SUV.
  • Low instrumental panel and top mounted meters, a first for Subaru, located on the instrumental panel and visible above the steering wheel realized the spacious interior.

e-SUBARU Global Platform

  • Utilizing the know-how cultivated with the highly recognized Subaru Global Platform, we have jointly developed the e-Subaru Global Platform together with Toyota Motor Corporation as a BEV-dedicated platform.

The e-Subaru Global Platform enables a driving experience with superior driving dynamics, that brings high stability and handling linearly responds to driver’s steering operation.

  • High capacity battery packs are placed under the floor as it is a BEV, and by utilizing that battery as a part of the structure, a low center of gravity and high body strength and rigidity are realized.

Driving Performance/AWD System

  • SOLTERRA has adopted a new system that drives the front and rear wheels with separate motors. Taking advantage of the expertise in AWD technology precisely controlling the four tires that SUBARU has accumulated over many years, the agile response of the electric motors and the flexible driving force distribution between front and rear, SOLTERRA fully utilizes the grips of the four wheels and offers a driving with confidence and peace of mind.
  • Like the other SUBARU SUV models, SOLTERRA features the X-MODE AWD control system that enhances the sense of security on rough roads. By adding the new Grip Control function, which enables the vehicle to run at a constant speed while stabilizing the vehicle even on rough roads, the capability is further enhanced.

Safety

  • By devising the skeleton shape of each part of the body and optimizing the material strength, SOLTERRA achieves both weight reduction and superior collision safety at the same time.
  • In the event of a collision, the structure that transfers the load to multiple body skeletons efficiently absorbs the collision energy. It protects not only the vehicle occupants, but also protects the high-voltage equipment in the BEV.

For more details, please visit the SOLTERRA special webpage.
https://www.subaru-global.com/solterra/

SOLTERRA is the vehicle which takes an important role for SUBARU, the company aiming at “delivering happiness to all,” to face the challenges of global warming and climate change and continue to deliver smiles in the future.

The vehicle has been jointly-developed by Toyota and SUBARU, which entered into a new business and capital alliance in September 2019. They brought together technologies and knowledges that are expertise of each under the slogan “Let’s make ever-better cars together” and the engineers of both companies developed it together while engaging in a friendly rivalry.

The launch of the SOLTERRA will start by the middle of 2022 in the markets including Japan, the United States, Canada, Europe and China.

【Specification of SOLTERRA (Japan model, in-house measurement)】

Subaru: Better Where it Matters
A car’s grip on slippery roads matters. How safe your car keeps your family. That really matters. Reliability, year after year. That matters too. Subaru make cars for people who understand what really matters and that’s why Subaru build them better, where it matters.

Consisting of three SUVs, the core Subaru range includes Forester e-BOXER, new XV and all-new Outback; embodying safety, capability and reliability at their core.

Since 1954, Subaru have been making cars for everyday life and every challenge. Whether it’s a hiking holiday or the school run – capability, safety and reliability is engineered into every part. Subaru has earned a reputation for engineering excellence; we’re proud to build cars that are better, where it matters.

Interior design of the Radford Lotus Type 62-2 revealed with inspiration from British Luxury Watch Brand, Bremont

by | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog

  • Radford Lotus Type 62-2 interior reveals bespoke Bremont application in the dashboard
  • Interior design elements balance the legendary Lotus lightweighting ethos with Radford’s renowned luxury and customisation capabilities
  • Featuring modern day technology, whilst paying homage to the original stunning Lotus Type 62 from 1969
  • One of only twelve to be built in the ultra-limited, world-famous black and gold John Player Special (JPS) livery

British luxury coachbuilder Radford has today revealed the inspirational interior design for the Radford Lotus Type 62-2 sportscar at an exclusive showcase at Bremont’s new 35,000 sq ft state-of-the-art Manufacturing & Technology centre in Henley-on-Thames, UK.

Fulfilling the promise that every Radford will be bespoke built to precise customisation requirements from clients, it has partnered with world-renowned makers of British mechanical timepieces, Bremont Watch Company, to integrate exquisite analogue dials within the dashboard.

The completely bespoke interior pays homage to the essence of Lotus’s lightweighting philosophy. It features blacked-out window tinting with carbon fibre accents throughout, including a-pillars, headliner and floor lining, capturing the light, agile essence of its sportscar underpinning. The centrepiece of the cabin is a pair of beautiful Bremont dials, a clock and a stopwatch.

Mark Stubbs, Radford Design Director “I always ask myself, what would Harold have done? Radford embraces and amplifies what the original manufacturer would do. We build upon it. With this interior, we still want it to be a Lotus Type 62-2, but with expert craftsmanship and using the finest materials available that don’t take anything away from a lightweight sportscar driving experience. This interior expertly finds the fine line between luxury bespoke and high-quality craftsmanship but whilst still conveying the essence of an out and out sportscar.

 “We’ve got the same milled and turned finish from the body of the clocks in our switches, so we’ve really integrated them and embraced what Bremont has crafted into this design. The analogue displays are a beautiful homage to the era of the Type 62-2 and its heritage. We want the driver to feel 100% focused on the joy of driving.”

Nick English, Co-Founder of Bremont: “We’re thrilled to have been asked to create a beautiful mechanical rally timer featuring a stopwatch and clock for the interior of this car, all exquisitely engineered in Britain, just like the Radford Lotus Type 62-2 itself. Radford is reviving the art of coachbuilding and Bremont has been proudly spearheading the revival of British watchmaking for nearly 20 years, there is a lovely synergy between both businesses in terms of celebrating the best of British manufacturing and design.”

The interior design features a beautiful sweeping line that tracks all the way around the interior of the car, from the back of the driver’s shoulders through and around the screen display. This key element can be customised in any kind of finish desired, from precious metals through to carbon fibre, as shown on the interior reveal car.

The door opening is a design element from the original Lotus Type 62, with a high sill and cut out roof. Once inside, the closeness of the glass gives the driver the feel of being in the cockpit of a Le Mans prototype.

Mark Stubbs “Everything is driver centric and built around that. It’s all about experiences, and the feeling the driver gets when getting in and out of the car is really important. You step into the car and slide into the interior, where the seat grips you and urges you to drive.”

For the purists, Radford has designed a fully exposed gear linkage for the manual transmission, an embracing homage to the ‘last of the manual’ era of motor cars. The start-stop button on the console is housed in a design that echoes the double ducktail exterior; a small visual queue to the spectacular iconic body shape. The interior also reflects elements of the JPS livery, with a perfectly balanced 2.5% blacked out cabin and subtle accents of gold.

Keeping to the philosophy of a lightweight, driver-oriented sportscar, the UI screen is subtle and all the in-car controls are physical toggles and switches, crafted with the finest materials.

The digital screen has a user interface that is designed bespoke for the Type 62-2 and has customisable elements for each client. There are three smaller screens inside the cockpit, ​​one which flanks each side and one in the centre. These are the side view and rear camera displays, with external cameras built into the very small wing “mirrors” and at the rear of the car, as there’s no rear glass. The cameras give the driver the visual confidence of the view around them.

Another element of technology in the interior is hidden behind the build plaque, which will designate the build number of the strictly-limited 62 examples. It is sculpted from a floating, glass fronted mounting piece, behind which is a magnetised mobile phone dock and wireless sheet charger. Drivers can connect via Bluetooth for navigation and audio – and specify their preferred position for the plaque, or request it to be deleted entirely for a completely uninterrupted driving experience.

The Lotus Type 62-2 coachbuilt by Radford will be the world’s first modern Radford. The mid-engined two-seater coupe with luxurious appointments befitting a high end bespoke coachmaker, has been created using Lotus technologies. Powered by a 3.5-litre supercharged V6, shared with Lotus’s new Emira sports car, the Classic Type 62-2 produced 430bhp. Radford Gold Leaf models are upgraded to 500bhp, and the limited-edition John Player Special models, with upgraded supercharger, take the output to 600bhp.

Radford will create contemporary luxury commissions true to classic timeless designs, bringing a modern and relevant version of coachbuilding, to a new discerning clientele.  Potential buyers are invited to visit the Radford website to register their interest.

Originally founded in 1948 by Harold Radford, creator of bespoke vehicles for sixties icons including The Beatles, the Radford name has been revived as a coachbuilder for the 21st century by leading British car designer Mark Stubbs, TV presenter and Mechanical Engineer Ant Anstead, Business expert Roger Behle, and former Formula OneTM  World Champion, Jenson Button. Dan Burge has been recently appointed as CEO.

To register interest, visit: https://radford.co/

We did it, the All New 2021 Ford Escort MK1 is here… on 71 plates!

by | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog

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MST Cars brings you the first Brand New Mk1 since the 1970’s, hand built in North Wales, UK!

Officially launched this weekend at Manchester Central, Late Brake Show with Jonny Smith.
Next stop: The Classic Motor Show NEC, Birmingham, 12 – 14 November, come and say hello, we will also be giving away our new 2022 parts catalogue
MST Mk1 & Mk2 are all bespoke and build to order, for touring, fast road, race or rally.
Brief spec of this car:
Brand new hand built rally spec bodyshell, bubble arched with weld in cage
2.0L BDG race engine, de-tuned for road use
5-speed close ratio gearbox
Rally spec Atlas axle with LSD
Bilstein coilover suspension
AP Racing Brakes
Genuine Minilite wheels
LIFE Racing ECU & PDM / CANbus electrical system
Electric power steering
Fully bespoke interior trim, featuring real leather and Alcantara
Various options and upgrades include:
Millington Diamond 2.5 to 2.8L engine
2.5L Duratec engine
6 speed H-pattern or sequential gearbox
Paddle & flat shift, launch & traction control
Reiger suspension
Various wheel sizes
Road or full race / rally trim
Prices start from £85k + VAT
World wide export
Please get in touch for more info
MST Cars Ltd.
MST Cars Ltd / Motorsport Tools UK Ltd. Is not authorized or otherwise affiliated with the Ford Motor Company.
MST Cars Ltd.

All-new DS 4 open for orders in the UK

by | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog

  • Order books for the all-new DS 4 premium hatchback have opened to UK customers
  • Revealed earlier in 2021, the all-new DS 4 comes available in three style treatments – DS 4, Performance Line and Cross
  • DS 4 is available with a choice of the E-TENSE plug-in hybrid powertrain or petrol and diesel engines
  • DS 4 features DS’ French luxury savoir-faire design language and class-leading levels of technology
  • Prices for the all-new DS 4 start from £25,350 OTR
  • To find out more about the DS 4 or to place an order please visit: https://www.dsautomobiles.co.uk/ds-models/ds-4/presentation.html

DS AUTOMOBILES has opened the order books for its new model, the DS 4. With prices starting from £25,350 OTR, the all-new DS 4 line-up features three variants: DS 4, Performance Line and Cross derivatives. Deliveries to UK customers will begin early in the new year.

Available to order online or in store, the all-new DS 4 is available with a highly efficient E-TENSE 225 plug-in hybrid powertrain with CO2 emissions as low as 34g/km (WLTP), offering an all-electric drive of up to 30 miles from a single charge. The DS 4 will also be offered with a choice of three advanced PureTech petrol engines, a PureTech130, PureTech180 and PureTech225, and a BlueHDi 130 diesel. All powertrains are sold exclusively with DS’ smooth shifting eight-speed automatic gearbox.

The all-new DS 4 features a striking new design, whilst embodying the brand’s savoir-faire positioning in the automotive industry. Whilst the exterior of the DS 4 features a distinctive design including a new light signature and slim projector headlights, complemented by Daytime Running Lights, the interior features refined materials including Alcantara®, forged carbon and wood, all incorporated via new upholstery techniques, with watchstrap leather, pearl stitching and hidden seams.

The DS 4 introduces new premium technology to the segment, including the DS IRIS SYSTEM – an all-new, full HD touchscreen infotainment system supported by over-the-air updates and featuring the IRIS personal assistant with natural voice recognition. To make the system even more intuitive, DS SMART TOUCH provides a small, additional touchscreen below the centre console with customisable shortcuts and handwriting recognition.

Enhancing the safety and convenience of the DS 4, DS EXTENDED HEAD-UP DISPLAY projects key information onto the windscreen, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road at all times. Further improving safety, DS NIGHT VISION helps detect hazards in low or poor visibility through the use of infrared camera technology, with objects projected onto the driver’s display.

A segment-first innovation, DS ACTIVE SCAN SUSPENSION features a camera positioned at the top of the windscreen to scan the road ahead for imperfections, while four attitude sensors and three accelerometers record every movement, allowing the system to control each wheel independently.

The all-new DS 4 is available in DS 4, CROSS and Performance Line variants.

DS 4

DS 4 variants are ideally suited to families and those after a versatile premium hatchback with a stylish and practical shape.  The refined and charismatic design was inspired by the DS AERO SPORT LOUNGE CONCEPT, with a compact length and wide, athletic stance. DS 4 models feature special bumpers, subtle chrome touches and a contrasting colour roof. In DS 4 specification, customers can choose between three trims – Bastille+, Trocadero and Rivoli.

PERFORMANCE LINE

The DS 4 Performance Line is available in two trims – Performance Line and Performance Line+ – with both versions sporting a more athletic look. The exterior trim highlights the car’s dynamic design, with a gloss black finish for the front grille and DS WINGS, as well as dark tinted rear windows and black upper window surrounds.

The Performance Line comes with black, 19-inch MINNEAPOLIS diamond-cut alloy wheels, and the interior is trimmed in Black Alcantara®, while the Perforated Fleur Leather Steering Wheel gains Performance Line stitching and a Forged Carbon insert. Performance Line models also feature front and rear parking sensors with a reversing camera, LED front and rear lights and, as with all DS 4 models, a seven-inch digital instrument cluster and 10-inch central touchscreen.

Performance Line+ adds a number of advanced driver assist and safety features, including an advanced emergency braking system and adaptive cruise control. Also included is the DS IRIS infotainment system with DS SMART TOUCH and the DS EXTENDED HEAD-UP DISPLAY.

CROSS

The DS 4 Cross complements the elegant design of the DS 4 with SUV-inspired styling cues, including side skirts, gloss black roof bars, front and rear skids and black bumpers. Also available as an exclusive option is Advanced Traction Control, featuring sand, snow and mud modes for improved grip when driving off-road.

There are two trims available in Cross specification – Cross Trocadero and Cross Rivoli. Cross Trocadero models come with 19-inch SAPORRO alloy wheels and a Tungsten Diamond cloth interior, while Cross Rivoli models are fitted with 19-inch LIMA diamond-cut alloy wheels and a Basalt black leather interior.

The Cross Rivoli features the DS IRIS SYSTEM and DS SMART TOUCH, while the DS MATRIX LED VISION headlights incorporate a Dynamic Bending Light function, which recalls the directional headlights of the original DS.

All DS 4 Cross models benefit from the DS EXTENDED HEAD-UP DISPLAY. New, immersive technology creates an optical illusion whereby vital driving information is displayed four metres ahead of the windscreen, diagonally following the driver’s gaze – the first time this has been seen in the segment.

Drivers can find out more about the all-new DS 4 and other models across the DS Automobiles range in the Virtual Showroom. DS Automobiles’ Virtual Showroom provides drivers with the opportunity to experience a full virtual walkaround of the models, open from 12-8 every day.

The all-new DS 4 can also be ordered entirely online via the DS Online Store. Customers can configure their vehicle, receive a part-exchange valuation on their current car, as well as tailor DS’s finance options to suit their needs all from the comfort of their home. Providing an added level of customer service, a DS Concierge team is also available to help answer any questions and assist with the order process. All DS models come with a three-year warranty as well as three years DS Assistance. 

Prices for the all-new DS 4 start from £25,350 OTR. First DS 4 models will be delivered to UK customers early in the new year.

Full details for prices across the DS 4 range can be found below:

 

Trim Engine CO2 g/km On the Road MRRP BIK per month
 20/40%

DS 4 Bastille+

 PureTech 130 Automatic 132 £25,350.00 £125 £251

DS 4 Trocadero

 PureTech 130 Automatic 132 £28,850.00 £143 £286
BlueHDi 130 Automatic 121 £30,750.00 £163 £325
E-TENSE 225 30 £36,600.00 £0 £0
DS 4 Rivoli PureTech 180 Automatic

 

 147 £35,150.00 £192 £384
PureTech 225 Automatic

 

 149 £36,950.00 £202 £403
E-TENSE 225

 

 30 £40,100.00 £0 £0
DS 4 Performance Line PureTech 130 Automatic

 

 132 £26,850.00 £133 £266
BlueHDi 130 Automatic

 

 121 £28,750.00 £152 £304
E-TENSE 225

 

 30 £34,600.00 £0 £0
DS 4 Performance Line+ PureTech 180 Automatic

 

 147 £33,150.00 £181 £362
PureTech 225 Automatic

 

 150 £34,950.00 £196 £393
E-TENSE 225

 

 30 £38,100.00 £0 £0
DS 4 Cross Trocadero PureTech 130 Automatic

 

 132 £29,450.00 £146 £292
BlueHDi 130 Automatic

 

 121 £31,350.00 £166 £332
E-TENSE 225

 

 30 £37,200.00 £0 £0
DS 4 Cross Rivoli PureTech 180 Automatic

 

 148 £35,750.00 £195 £390
PureTech 225 Automatic

 

 150 £37,550.00 £211 £422
E-TENSE 225

 

 30 £40,700.00 £0 £0

 

To find out more visit: https://www.dsautomobiles.co.uk/  

ABOUT DS AUTOMOBILES

Driven by the spirit of the avant-garde and backed by an exceptional heritage – that of the 1955 DS, the DS brand, born in 2014, aims to embody French luxury savoir-faire in the automotive industry.

Designed for a customer base looking for personal expression and eager for new technologies, DS models combine refinement and technology. With DS 3 CROSSBACK, DS 4, DS 7 CROSSBACK and DS 9, the DS brand is launching a global range.

DS Automobiles is the only brand able to claim a double Formula E championship (Teams and Drivers) in 2019 and 2020, and is at the cutting edge of electrification by offering all its models as electrified versions. Under the E-TENSE label, DS Automobiles offers both 100% electric and plug-in hybrid of up to 360 horsepower with 4-wheel drive. From 2024, every new model launched by DS Automobiles will be only 100% electric.

For its discerning customers, DS Automobiles has created “ONLY YOU, a wealth of attentions”, its exclusive service programme for a unique brand experience.

With a presence in 41 countries, the DS brand has created and is developing an exclusive distribution network that includes over 440 DS STORES throughout the world.

Follow news from DS on www.DSautomobiles.co.uk  @DS_UK

Concours of Elegance prepares for special tenth anniversary edition in 2022

by | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog

  • Spectacular 10th anniversary showcase planned for Concours of Elegance 2022, including a reunion of the most amazing cars from the debut 2012 event
  • An all-new Prince of Michael of Kent class will gather the winners of each previous Concours of Elegance, crowning a best-of-the-best
  • Gooding & Company will once again host an exclusive global auction of rare vehicles at the Concours
  • ‘The Collector’ feature, introduced for 2022, highlights Jack Boyd-Smith and a world-famous line-up of his extraordinary Packard Twelve motorcars
  • Grand Prix class will gather race winners and Formula One innovators
  • Royal heritage is celebrated with an official display of the Royal Household vehicles, alongside royal cars gathered from all over the world

With a full line-up of the world’s rarest cars and a collection of luxury partners more impressive than ever at Concours of Elegance 2021, planning for a special 10th anniversary event in 2022 is now underway.

The UK’s finest concours d’elegance will evolve from September 2-4th next year with a three-day celebration of both Her Majesty The Queen’s 70th year as monarch and the event’s 10th anniversary.

In 2012, the event was born with a collector car showcase that transformed the automotive landscape in the UK. Never before had there been a concours d’elegance with the calibre of venue and quality of automotive displays to sit shoulder-to-shoulder with the likes of Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este or the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Ever since its debut, the Concours of Elegance has had an association with Royal Palaces and the Jewels of the car world, hosted at Windsor Castle in 2012 and subsequently at St James’s Palace, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Hampton Court Palace.

In 2022, the Concours of Elegance evolves once more. Returning to Hampton Court Palace’s Fountain Gardens, where it has been held since 2017, it will be a reunion of all of the finest cars to ever grace the event. Each of the winners from 2012 through to 2021 will be invited, and in honour of the event’s Patron will be called The Prince Michael of Kent Class.

Alongside them will be many of the stars from the inaugural edition at Windsor Castle in 2012, each handpicked to join the celebration of an event these very same cars helped to establish. Our Steering Committee of motoring experts, who each year invite cars and owners to the Concours of Elegance, agreed from the very beginning that once a car was displayed at the event it couldn’t be seen again for another 10 years. Now, in 2022, our early supporters have the first opportunity return to the event. 

In homage to its royal roots, with the patronage of HRH Prince Michael of Kent, and its unique royal palace venues, the Concours of Elegance will be showcasing a number of the Royal cars for official display. What’s more, royal vehicles from all over the world, past and present, will also be invited to attend, including the famous Rolls-Royces of the Maharajahs.  And in the year of Her Majesty The Queen’s 70th year as monarch, a unique display will be curated to showcase one example of automotive endeavour and innovation from each year of her reign.

A new Grand Prix class will celebrate race-winning single-seaters from the top-tier of motorsport, including early Formula One Championship winners and innovators. Cars that have become just as iconic as the gladiatorial racers that drove them.

Concours of Elegance’s long-term auction partner, Gooding & Co, returns with another spectacular global sale of rare collector cars. The sale will provide enthusiasts and attendees the thrilling opportunity to view and purchase some of the world’s most prized, revered, and valuable concours-quality cars. Gooding & Company is currently accepting consignments for a limited number of spots in this extraordinary curation of highly sought-after marques and models

As with all of Gooding & Company’s auctions, the sale at the Concours of Elegance will have online bidding capabilities, allowing everyone around the world to take part in the action. In 2021 alone, the auction house conducted two highly successful online-only sales with viewing in the UK, and attracts buyers across the globe to participate in upcoming opportunities through its digital platform.

The Concours of Elegance’s traditional feature displays, including The Club Trophy – for the UK’s finest car club concours winners – and the Junior Concours will be joined once again by the 30UNDER30 feature that debuted in 2021, welcoming the next-generation of automotive enthusiast into the Palace. A brand new ‘The Collector’ feature will shine a spotlight on the incredible line-up of Packard Twelve models owned by Jack Boyd-Smith, with a gathering of six of these legendary American pre-war luxury cars.

Away from the automotive displays, Concours of Elegance will continue to be a showcase for the finest luxury brands in the world, with Presenting Partner A. Lange & Söhne already committed to returning in 2022, alongside the Peninsula London Hotel and Chubb Insurance.

The Concours of Elegance 2022 will take place at Hampton Court Palace from the 2nd-4th September. Tickets and further details will be announced towards the end of 2021.

ŠKODA Karoq: A mainstay of the model range

by | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog

  • More than half a million units produced since the SUV’s introduction in 2017
  • ŠKODA’s best-selling SUV and the brand’s second most popular model overall after the Octavia in 2020 and in the first half of 2021
  • Second model from the ŠKODA SUV campaign has won numerous awards
  • The revised ŠKODA Karoq will make its debut in a digital media presentation on 30 November

Since its introduction in spring 2017, the ŠKODA Karoq has contributed substantially to the Czech car maker’s success.

Alongside its older sibling the Kodiaq, this compact SUV has won over numerous customers and car magazines worldwide, playing a key role in shaping the development of the ŠKODA brand in recent years. More than 500,000 units of the Karoq have rolled off the production lines since 2017. In 2020 and in the first half of 2021, it was ŠKODA’s best-selling SUV and the brand’s second most popular model overall after the Octavia. The freshened ŠKODA Karoq will make its debut in a digital media presentation on 30 November.

Martin Jahn, ŠKODA AUTO Board Member for Sales and Marketing, says: “With its generous amount of space and typical ŠKODA functionality, the Karoq has delighted our customers right from the start. It was our most popular SUV model during the past year and the first half of 2021 – which illustrates its importance within the model portfolio. I am convinced that we will build on this success story with the new edition of the Karoq and attract new customers to the brand.”

Introduced in 2017, the ŠKODA Karoq represented the second stage of the ŠKODA SUV campaign, making this model series a key part of what has become a genuine success story – in 2020, this vehicle segment already accounted for almost 40 per cent of ŠKODA’s global sales figures. Indeed, in 2020 and the first half of 2021 the Karoq was ŠKODA’s most popular SUV and the Czech car maker’s second best-selling model overall, behind the Octavia. More than 500,000 units of the Karoq have rolled off the production lines since 2017, and it’s currently available in 60 countries worldwide. ŠKODA manufactures this model in the Czech Republic and Slovakia as well as in Russia and China.

An exciting design and typical ŠKODA virtues
The Karoq was launched with the same exciting design language as the Kodiaq, complete with crystalline elements, dynamic shapes and sharply defined lines. It also continued the ŠKODA convention of having SUV model names start with a K and end with a Q. Its name harks back to the language of Alaska’s original inhabitants, the Alutiiq. Its compact dimensions make the Karoq the perfect car for urban environments, while its off-road mode and high ground clearance as well as an optional all-wheel drive system ensure it excels just as much on more challenging terrain. With its exceptional spaciousness and large luggage compartment, it is the ideal car for families and lifestyle-focused customers. Optional VarioFlex rear seats are just one of many Simply Clever features offered by the functional Karoq. It also offers superior active and passive safety, numerous assistance systems, even better comfort and a wealth of advanced connectivity features.

Numerous awards from the international automotive media
In addition to its great popularity with customers, the ŠKODA Karoq is very highly regarded by the international motoring press, as evidenced by the host of awards it has won since its debut in 2017. In its first year of sales, the Karoq received instant honours from the most prominent car magazines in Germany, the largest single market for ŠKODA worldwide. Auto Bild awarded it the “Golden Steering Wheel” as the best small SUV, while auto motor und sport honoured it with the “AUTONIS” award for best new compact SUV design. The KAROQ also beat the competition to win Auto Zeitung’s “Auto Trophy” as the best import SUV in the price bracket up to 25,000 euros in 2017, 2018 and 2019. In 2018 it won the title as the best import vehicle in the compact SUV and off-roader category in the auto motor und sport “Best Cars” readers’ choice award; this was complemented by the Czech and Greek “Car of the Year” awards and the “SUV of the Year” award in Bulgaria and at “The Fleet News Awards” in the UK. The German company car magazine firmenauto has presented the ŠKODA Karoq with its “Company Car of the Year” award for three years running, from 2019 to 2021, in the compact SUV and crossover category. In 2021, in addition to winning “Best Family SUV” in British What Car? magazine, the KAROQ has also brought home two awards in Russia, where it was declared Autoreview “Car of the Year” and “Best compact 4×4 Crossover” at the Za Rulyom Grand Prix awards.

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