Skoda Auto have launched a new variant of the Octavia -- the Rider. According to the automaker, the new variant is 'aimed at creating a new dimension of style for the discerning customer.'
Priced at Rs 10,60,000 (ex-showroom, Mumbai), the Rider fits in between other Octavia variants -- the base model Ambiente and the upper-end Elegance. The Laurin & Klement continues to be the top-end Octavia.
No changes have been made to the mechanicals, but the Rider's interiors get a mild makeover. There's new dual-tone fabric upholstery, silver-finish centre console, an armrest between the two front seats, and 15-inch alloys.
The car is available with either a 2000cc, 110 bhp petrol engine or a 1900cc, 90 bhp turbodiesel. In either case, buyers still have to make do with the five-speed manual transmission that's standard on the Octavia. An automatic gearbox option is due.
Speaking on the occasion Imran Hassen, managing director of SkodaAuto India, said, "The Skoda Octavia Rider is another step in our endeavor to provide a car that suits the life and style of our every customer.
"With the Rider we intend to pamper our customers with stylish and comfortable interiors that are appealing yet safe. We have led the market in innovatively creating new segments for our products and the discerning customer.
"This spate of market segmentation has prompted us to launch a range of variants of SkodaOctavia at various price points to suit requirements of customers across the board. Through the Rider brand of the SkodaOctavia we have once again brought out our obsession with quality since 1895. "
SkodaAuto has been operating in India since 2001 as a subsidiary of SkodaAuto of Czech Republic (Volkswagen Group), one of the premium automobile manufacturers in Europe.
SkodaAuto has set up a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Shendra near Aurangabad, Maharashtra. The facility is spread across 300,000 sq. mt. and employs 300 people.
SkodaAuto India now has four luxury models in the country: the top end SkodaL&K, SkodaElegance, SkodaAmbiente, SkodaRider and SkodaSuperb.
Skoda has a network of 35 dealerships across the country and has sold close 13000 units since 2001.
With additional inputs from:
