These days, the roads are filled with a range of Skoda models and they are considered to be one of the most popular brands. Motorists will remember that not too long ago Skoda did not have the best reputation and was even considered a laughing-stock company by many so it has been a remarkable change for the Czech manufacturer.
Early Beginnings
The company was originally founded in 1895 and taken under communist control in 1925 when they would manufacture cars which were dull and purely functional compared to the sleeker, more advanced cars that were being developed elsewhere. It was the fall of the Berlin Wall and communism that would prove to be a pivotal moment for Skoda (and the world) as the company was then privatized and sold to Volkswagen at the start of the 90s.
Changing Fortunes
Skoda soon released the Fabia and Octavia which were both huge upgrades on the models before and actually have inspired popular models like the VW Golf and Polo. This slowly saw the reputation begin to change, but it wasn’t until a smart and daring advertising campaign in 2000 that Skoda changed people’s perceptions forever with the self-aware campaign for the Fabia with the slogan “it is a Skoda, honest”. This used a popular type of humour while acknowledging its history and contrasting this against the quality of their new vehicles to create a highly effective campaign that got people on side.
Growth
The company has been growing steadily ever since and were even voted the most dependable car brand in the UK in 2015 which was the same year that they announced that they were working on an electric model. They may not be the flashiest vehicles on the roads, but they are reliable, excellent value for money and practical – something that appeals to many different types of motorists and they remain popular in Russia and Eastern European markets due to their roots.
Today
Currently, there are a number of excellent models to choose from and a type for every motorist. The Fabia and Octavia both remain highly popular models as well as the Karoq which is a practical SUV which is a major trend in the UK right now. These can be found in the used car market, but be sure to arrange a Karoq warranty if the manufacturer warranty has expired for financial protection.
Few companies have managed to change their fortunes as much as Skoda over the years and it is a truly inspirational story which many companies can learn from.