Skoda wins two inaugural CarBuyer awards

Skoda has scooped two awards in the first-ever CarBuyer awards, the new online database run by Dennis publishing. With a focus on running costs, safety, economy, performance and owner satisfaction, CarBuyer's team of experts picked both the Yeti and Superb Estate as winners in their respective categories.

The Skoda Super Estate scooped up the award for Best Estate Car with a star rating of 4.8/5. CarBuyer says: “The Superb Estate is the most spacious car in its class, but it's also fantastic to drive – as well as being well-built and impressively luxurious.” This latest gong adds to the Superb Estate's ever-growing list of accolades.

They added, “From the driver's seat, the Estate is just like the hatch, meaning comfortable seats, plenty of space and excellent build quality. The only difference is a small button that opens the boot from the inside.”

Meanwhile the multi-award winning Yeti crossover was chosen over its more conventional rivals to be named Best Family Car. “A practical and rugged alternative to mainstream family hatchbacks, the Skoda Yeti is a brilliant accessory to everyday life.“ CarBuyer was particularly impressed by the high-tech 1.2 TSI engine: “With 105bhp [it] should be ample for most buyers, its fine performance backed up with 44mpg economy.”

These two awards carry on from Skoda's most successful year ever in 2010 thanks not only to a heaving trophy cabinet but also due to record sales. Over 41,000 new cars were delivered to customers last year, increasing the Czech manufacturer's market share in the UK to a record 2%.

Prices start from £14,645 for the Yeti, while the Superb Estate is available from £18,550.