ŠKODA Ireland's new range of 4X4 vehicles are now on Irish Roads. After the madness of last years winter’s driving conditions, ŠKODA aims to meet the needs of Irish motorists by providing mobility and safety through their 4X4 technology while maintaining low emissions and fuel economy. Low emissions and economy are key to affordability and Škoda’s range are sub 163 g/km ensuring the Octavia and Yeti derivatives all fall into Band-C with annual road tax of €302 while the Superb achieves Band-D with annual road tax of €447.
Commenting on the launch of the 4X4 range by ŠKODA, Marketing Manager Raymond Leddy said, “The maneuverability and reliability of 4X4 driving was once the preserve of the large SUV. Increasing fuel prices and CO2 based taxation has since seen their popularity decline. ŠKODA’s 4X4 capability coupled with low tax band and fuel efficient Diesel engines offers an affordable alternative to traditional SUV’s this winter.
The cornerstone to ŠKODA’S 4X4 offering is the application of the Haldex Clutch. During normal driving approximately 95% of the torque is delivered to the front axle and the remaining 5% to the rear. When a given wheel or wheels lose traction the Haldex Clutch instinctively redistributes the torque to wheels that have traction. Four wheel drive combined with ESP stability systems enable ŠKODA 4X4 drivers to safely manoeuvre in difficult road conditions similar to what was experienced last winter.
People are encouraged to call in to their local Škoda dealer and test drive the new 4X4 models which will be available to test drive. As an added incentive, those who undertake a test drive will receive a free winter driving pack which will be particularly useful coming in the months ahead.