Selected models of the Skoda Fabia are set to come with an offer of a four year maintenance package. This announcement was made by Skoda India, which is a subsidiary completely owned by Skoda Auto, Czech Republic. However, it must be noted that the maintenance packages are available only for 1.2 MPI and 1.2 TDI models of the Fabia hatchback. These maintenance offers will be available at Rs. 43027 and Rs. 52665 for the Fabia 1.2 MPI and Fabia 1.2 TDI, respectively.
Skoda India has announced immediate implementation of these packages, which will be valid for a period of four years or a distance of 60000 km, whichever comes first. The maintenance packages will comprise roadside assistance and scheduled maintenance, along with an extended warranty for a period of 2+2 years, which will begin from the date of purchase.
Strangely, some reports in the circles suggest that the Fabia hatchback is slated to shelved in a short span of time by the Skoda India. It is speculated that the company will continue the sales of the car until the existing stock of Completely Knocked Down (CKD) units finishes. Following this, the firm has no plans to re-launch the Fabia hatchback in the Indian car market. However, it is being speculated that Skoda India will launch a new version of the Fabia by the year 2015, although it is still unclear as to whether it will be the SK 250 or SK 260. The Skoda Fabia SK 250 is a facelifted variant of the existing version of the hatchback.
Currently, the company is concentrating on the launch of its executive sedan, the new Octavia, which is scheduled to be introduced by this Diwali. In what has been a disappointing and tough period for the market, auto makers are devising new strategies in order to attract more and more customers. Companies are offering things like extended warranties, innovative schemes and free check-ups to lure buyers. Other methods to attract car buyers include introduction of new models, limited editions of best sellers, upgraded variants of existing cars and the provision of discounts on the purchase of any vehicle.
Recent trends have shown that the position of the Indian car market is quite bad and it is a tough time for auto makers, who have been resorting to block closures and stoppages of production. Adding to the low demand is the falling value of rupee, which increases the cost pressure and subsequently forces companies to increase the price in order to maintain their profit margins.
