New diesels for Laura & Superb

Skoda will equip its Laura and Superb with the same 139bhp 2-litre common-rail diesel that powers the Passat and the latest Jetta. The older Pump Duse (PD) engines will be completely phased out as they do not meet the new Bharat Stage IV norms that go into effect from April 1, 2010 in 13 cities across India.

The Laura previously available with two diesel options, the 1.9 TDI and 2.0TDI will now get only one diesel motor, that is shared with its sibling, the Superb and its German cousins, the Jetta and Passat. The new diesel is significantly more refined than the PD engines and will significantly improve the performance and refinement levels of both the Skoda saloons.

With these engines, Skoda hopes to keep its advantage in the executive and luxury saloon segments. Prices have not been announced yet but there is expected to be a marginal increase.