Diesel enthusiasts can smile again as Skoda is planning to revive the diesel engine, and the carmaker has begun with the Skoda Superb. Though the carmaker has already been producing the petrol engines locally, as per our sources, they have been weighing the same options for the diesel engine, but were being hampered by the dynamic Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards. Here, we present all that we know about the diesel powertrain of the Czech carmaker.
Hindrances in the process
One of the largest thorns in the side of Skoda is the variable Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards. CAFE standards are to govern the CO2 emissions of the entire model range of an automotive organization rather than separate models. There are several methods to determine the CAFE score of an automaker, but the total score is based on the number of units sold, CO2 emissions, and kerb weight of the models. Automakers can sell more units or lower the CO2 emissions to remain below the CAFE target score as mandated by the concerned authorities.
Automakers can also produce hybrid cars or EVs and these earn the company 'Super Credits'. These 'super credits' can then be utilized to offset more polluting models. Skoda may have availed this offer with the assistance of Enayq, which was supposed to arrive in India in 2025 but has been postponed due to the reported possible discussions of imposing tariffs by the US government.
Why is Diesel Powertrain being Reintroduced?
In those days when the VW group was supplying diesel engines, these were the most sought-after option among the carmakers' customers, one of the probable reasons being the high efficiency that the TDI engines provide. This might be one of the key drivers in reintroducing the diesel engine.
In a fuel-conscious market like India, where fuel efficiency is one of the key areas a customer watches out for when acquiring a new vehicle, this step may make the Superb and future products of the group more desirable.
What’s next in the pipeline?
While Skoda is said to be planning to reintroduce diesel engines, they will be exclusively available with models that are launched through the CBU channel. The automaker is also weighing local production, but owing to the aforementioned reasons, it is hesitant to take a final call. That being said, other VW group models like the Audi Q5, Q4, A4, and A6, Volkswagen's Tiguan R-Line, and Porsche's Cayenne could follow Skoda's lead and bring the diesel engines back to our shores.
Conclusion
The possible return of the diesel-fueled Skoda Superb marks a fascinating change in the brand's direction in the face of shifting fuel economy standards and changing customer needs. Although the revival is at present aimed at CBU models, it is an indication of Skoda's sensitivity to customer tastes, especially in countries such as India, where fuel economy is still top of mind. If it works, the move can set the stage for a full-scale diesel comeback throughout the VW Group's family of vehicles, providing more options for customers who still appreciate the torque, fuel economy, and efficiency of diesels. That said, the ultimate course of action will also depend on the way the CAFE standards unfold and whether domestic production becomes economically feasible again.
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