Skoda

Skoda has significantly increased the power of the Kodiaq iV. The plug-in hybrid previously delivered 204 horsepower, but the updated version produces 272 — seven more than the petrol-powered Kodiaq RS. The 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine remains, though it has been updated alongside the upgraded electrified drivetrain, making the iV the most powerful variant in the range.

Unions at Skoda Auto, Volkswagen's Czech subsidiary, have rejected a proposed salary freeze that formed part of the German group's wider savings programme. The refusal adds friction to VW's efforts to cut costs across its brands amid pressure on the European car industry, and sets up tough negotiations between management and worker representatives over where the savings should come from.

A new comparison pits the updated Hyundai Bayon against the Skoda Kamiq, asking which compact crossover delivers more for the money. The piece weighs the facelifted Bayon's fresh styling and equipment against the Kamiq's practicality and pricing, a common matchup for buyers shopping in the small SUV segment.