Skoda closes 2008 with record market share

Skoda ended 2008 on a positive note with market share increased to a new record of 1.74% and business sales exceeding retail for the first time. One of the highlights of the year was the new Superb, selling 766 of the new model registered between September and the end of December, and a total order take of over 1,400 Superbs.

The best seller in the range was new Fabia with nearly 17,000 sold, closely followed by Octavia with 15,205. Skoda sold more Fabias in 2008 than in the previous year, despite an 11% drop in the total market.

Robert Hazelwood, Brand Director of Skoda commented: “Both retail and fleet customers are recognising the great value offered by Skoda. With good quality product and high levels of equipment at every level it is clear that we are well positioned for what will be a difficult 2009. The new Superb has proven a hit with the press and customers alike and I believe it represents everything that is great about the brand: strong design, great value for money and excellent build quality. As evidenced by the J D Power Survey of Customer Satisfaction, I believe we offer outstanding customer service.”

Nearly 60% of the new Superbs sold were the top-of-the range Elegance model with the 2.0 TDI CR proving the most popular engine choice. The common rail engine is a new generation of diesel engine that provides better fuel economy, lower emissions and improved performance.

The Skoda vRS and Scout brands continued to perform well in 2008. The best selling vRS model was the Octavia 2.0 TDI CR. Roomster sales performed well for the year with 3,129 sold; Roomster 2 the most popular model.

Commenting on the year ahead Robert Hazelwood said: “It will undoubtedly be a challenging year but the market is still there for manufacturers that offer great quality product and service along with great value. We support our retailers, who continue to provide award winning service. Our research shows that more people recognise Skoda’s outstanding value and great customer service – in other words, they do indeed see Skoda as the manufacturer of happy drivers and this will continue as we launch more product over the next 12 months. Watch for the Octavia facelift and the fantastic new Yeti, which I believe will be well placed in this market, as families seek practicality and great design at the right price.”