Skoda Joyster launches at Paris Motor Show

For years a laughing stock, now a serious player

28 September 2006 14:47 GMT / By Jonathan Goddard

Good old Škoda - for years a laughing stock, now a serious player in the European car market thanks to its VW owners, and in the future … very possibly as the cutting-edge of new car design.

The Joyster, which gets its world premier today at the Paris Motor Show, is Skoda’s new concept, which is essentially a three-door front-wheel-drive compact vehicle targeted at young people. Hardly the most inspiring creation to look at, it’s A-pillarless design is what’s really fascinating. With recent reports from safety campaigners that the ever-growing size of the A-pillar in new vehicles is contributing to accidents, a see-through corner would represent an answer - so long as it’s tough enough to protect the occupants, that is.

Neon light trims and a stonking tailgate seating array also look pretty neat.
As well as the Joyster, Skoda is showing off its new Octavia Scout, Octavia RS and the Octavia Combi RS.