Currently reading: New look for next-gen Skodas
Skoda's cars to get "more heart"; new models planned every six months from 2012

The next-gen of Skoda models will feature more emotional styling, while retaining their individual character, according to the company's chief designer.

"I want more heart in our cars," said Jozef Kaban. "Today's models are very functional and appeal to the brain, but I want them to be more involved in the heart."

The new look will be seen later this year on the 'new small family' hatchback, the city car co-developed with the VW Up.

The essential body surfacing, face and grille were previewed on the Vision D concept at Geneva.

Read the full story on Skoda's Vision D concept

"I'm not saying that the Vision D will exactly be repeated on all our cars, but the new grille and separate badge are the way for the future," said Kaban.

Kaban also wants to ensure the next range of models retain "their own character" as does the current range in which models like the Fabia and Roomster feature distinctively different looks.

"I am trying my best to keep Skoda special and different," says Kaban.

Skoda is entering an intense phase of new model launches and starting in 2012 there will be a new or revamped model every six months.

Coming 12 months after the city car is a small saloon, based on the Fabia and positioned between the supermini and Octavia.

Dubbed the "small family saloon", it will be launched in 2012 and be in the UK a year later.

Julian Rendell

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