With the arrival of the ‘Beast from the East’, this week, ŠKODA is predicting a rise in demand for their 4x4 range. 

This, they say follows trends seen by the car brand after the severe winter snow in 2010 and 2011, where ŠKODA 4x4 sales increased fivefold the following year.

Speaking about ŠKODA’s 4x4 vehicles in Ireland, Mark Mulvaney, ŠKODA PR Manager, said: "The all-wheel-drive market is extremely weather dependent. In 2012, we saw a huge increase in sales for our 4x4 range and we expect this trend to be repeated with the arrival of the snowstorm, this week. However, our 4x4 range is not just for snow storms that happen twice every decade – each 4x4 we produce proves to be a safe and loyal work horse in many other conditions, including towing trailers and boats, as well as on rough or slippery terrain.

"We are one of the few car brands that provide all-wheel-drive options across a range of models, from the OCTAVIA and SUPERB to our latest SUV additions, so those looking to change or upgrade their car have plenty of options to choose from. In fact, ŠKODA is one of the longest-established brands to feature all-wheel-drive technology, first testing 4x4 systems back in the 1930s.”

The brand’s entire 4×4 model range comes equipped with all-wheel-drive technology, based on the latest generation of the electronically controlled multi-plate clutch. The all-wheel-drive system works electronically, precisely and quickly. The control unit constantly calculates the ideal distribution of power between the front and rear axle, thus virtually eliminating any loss of traction.