Skoda Superb "Ambition" Variant launched @ Rs. 18 lakh

The Skoda Superb now gets a new base variant, the Ambition. Actually, it's hardly a "base" variant!

Pricing (ex-showroom, Delhi):
Petrol: Rs. 18 Lakh
Diesel: Rs. 22.5 Lakh
 
The Superb has been leading the D2 sedan segment since the time of its launch in 2009. It's average sales have been 274 a month from January 2011 through March 2012. The Ambition variant's lower price point could just drive sales further, and provide a mid-life boost for the vehicle. The next gen Superb is expected only by Q4, 2013.
 
The Ambition is available with both, the 1.8 TSI petrol engine (160 BHP @ 4500-6200 rpm, 250 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm) and the 2.0 TDI oil-burner (140 BHP @ 4200 rpm, 320 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm). The petrol Ambition gets a 6-speed manual transmission (no DSG), while the diesel gets only the 6-speed DSG automatic gearbox.
 
What is missing in the Ambition compared to the Elegance?
Surprisingly, very less has changed. Only the absolute extras have been removed. The Ambition does retain the dual-zone climatronic A/C, retractable sun-screens, rain sensing auto wipers, rear footrest, umbrella in the rear door etc. As does the safety kit which includes 8 airbags, fog lamps with cornering function, Traction Control, ABS with EBD, Anti Slip Regulation, Electronic Differential lock, auto-dimming rear view mirror et al.

Here the list of missing items as compared to the Elegance trim:

• Bi-Xenon Headlamps (gets Projectors only)
• Sunroof
• Proximity sensors at the front
• Touch screen music system with 6 CD changer (gets a normal music system with a single CD changer, speakers remain the same)
• Bluetooth & steering mounted audio controls
• Headlamp washers
• Cruise control
• Hill hold and descent functions
• Tyre Pressure Monitor

 
0% interest on 2011 manufactured cars:
Skoda also announced a 0% interest scheme. This is applicable only to 2011 manufactured Superbs and Lauras (petrol Laura only). I don't think it makes sense to go for these vehicles which have seen lying in the stockyards for more than 4 months now. If you want to buy new, well, buy new only!