SPECIAL editions of Skoda's bigger models are being released to mark the Czech car firm's role as the support vehicle supplier for the Tour de France cycle race.

With the first three stages this year's event taking place in Britain, Skoda will be producing special versions of the Yeti, Octavia and Superb decked out in red, white or blue paint jobs.

Only 198 examples of each will be available - the number of cyclists entered in the race - and each will come with Tour de France badging and cycle-friendly features such as waterproof seat covers and bike wheel bags.

Priced at £23,490, the Yeti TdF is based on the Outdoor SE 2.0-litre TDI 140PS 4x4 model. Additional specification includes an Amundsen satellite navigation system with DAB digital radio, Keyless Entry and Start System, floor mats and an internal bike rack.

The Superb TdF is priced at £28,490 and is based on the Estate Outdoor 2.0-litre TDI 140PS 4x4 and has the same enhancements as the Yeti, along with a space saver spare wheel and boot net.

The special Octavia is based on the 2.0-litre TDI 150PS 4x4 SE estate. It has the same enhancements as the other Tour de France cars with the addition of roof bars and a roof-mounted bike carrier and costs £24,290.

This year's Tour de France kicks off in Leeds on July 5 with a stage to Harrogate followed by a run from York to Sheffield on July 6 with stage three travelling from Cambridge to London on July 7. After that the racers cross the Channel to France with race finishing in Paris on July 27.