Skoda Australia prices rise with new equipment, return of key safety technology

Prices of six of seven Skoda model ranges sold in Australia have increased by between $500 and $1900 with the return of blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert – and the inclusion of other new standard features.

Announced in July, all Skoda vehicles locally will once again be fitted with these two safety features, returning as standard to all versions of the Kamiq small SUV, Karoq mid-size SUV, Kodiaq large SUV, Scala small hatch and Octavia mid-size car for vehicles arriving this month.

The technology was deleted 18 months ago due to semiconductor shortages, before returning progressively as a $1250 optional extra late last year.

Alongside the safety systems, Skoda Australia has re-introduced other features previously unavailable due to chip shortages – and made other features formerly optional, or exclusive to higher model grades standard equipment.

The specification upgrades apply to vehicles arriving in showrooms now – with some changing over to 'Model Year 2024' (MY24) in the process – with prices $500 (Scala) to $1900 (Kodiaq RS) higher than before.

Some models – the Superb liftback and wagon – have received price rises without any additional equipment, while the Kamiq Style small SUV is the same price as before despite adding new features.

The Australian division of the Volkswagen-owned Czech car maker has also announced plans for a cheaper, entry-level version of the Kamiq small SUV to be announced "imminent[ly]", with a lower price but the "same level of active safety technology as the Style 85TSI."

The changes to the Skoda Australia range are as follows:

All prices listed above are drive-away.