A SERIES of changes is being introduced by Skoda as the Czech car maker goes about updating its model line up.

The features include new-look steering wheels, more efficient engines and extra assistance systems.

The new two- or three-spoke steering wheels from the latest Octavia - featuring the infotainment operating buttons and knurled wheels - are now being introduced across the range.

The Superb, Kodiaq and Karoq get additional assistance systems, while the Scala and Kamiq compact models are being further refined with subtle details.

Additionally, the Fabia and Superb combustion engines will be converted to the Euro6d emission standard by the end of the year, with some becoming more powerful.

The updates in detail are:

Superb The most powerful 2.0TDI diesel from the new EVO generation will deliver 200ps up from 190 and a new exhaust gas treatment which reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 80per cent.

In the range-topping 2.0TSI petrol version, power is increasing by to 280ps and the Skoda Area View system - which uses a 360 degree camera system - is being introduced as an option across the range as is Skoda's Trailer Assist set up for use when towing.

Kodiaq Predictive Cruise Control will be added to the Kodiaq's list of assistance systems.while the optional keyless vehicle entry system has been upgraded to work all doors. Leather upholstery with new air-conditioned sports seats and the option of extending the seat surface are available on request for the Kodiaq SportLine and Kodiaq vRS. The power of the 2.0TDI is increasing from 190ps to 200ps. The 2.0TDI model with an output of 150ps and seven-speed DSG complies with the Euro6d emissions standard while the equally powerful 1.5TSI will also be converted to Euro6d and will be fitted with a new-generation six-speed gearbox in the manual version.

Karoq The Karoq will be available with optional tri-zone Climatronic air conditioning for the first time and can now be equipped with Area View and Trailer Assist. The previous entry-level 1.6TDI diesel is being replaced with an equally powerful 2.0TDI from the new EVO generation. In terms of exhaust gas treatment, it uses a ‘twin dosing' process - just like the 2.0TDI delivering 150ps which is replacing the previous 1.6TDI and is available with all-wheel drive and a DSG transmission as well as front-wheel drive and a manual gearbox. The entry-level 1.0TSI petrol engine will generate 110ps.

Scala and Kamiq The engines fitted in the Scala and Kamiq will be converted to the Euro6d standard. The 1.5TSI produces 150ps), whilst the 1.0TSI is available with outputs of 95ps and later in the year with 110ps.

Optional silver-coloured 17-inch alloys are new on the Kamiq) as is the Simply Clever multifunction storage pocket underneath the boot cover for extra storage.

In the optional keyless vehicle entry system, the transmitter signal now deactivates if the key has not been moved for five minutes, instead of the previous 15minutes.

All Scala and Kamiq models are now equipped with an activated carbon filter that can also remove allergens from the air. The ScoutLine trim is also making its debut on Kamiq in the UK.

Fabia In the Fabia, the 95ps 1.0TSI will switch to the Euro6d emissions standard in the second half of the year. The three-cylinder direct-injection engine will then also be available with a seven-speed DSG in addition to the manual five-speed gearbox, which comes as standard.

The entry-level 1.0MPI model with an output of 60ps and manual five-speed gearbox will also be converted to Euro6d. Black polished 17-inch alloys are being added to the wheel portfolio. All Fabia models will also be fitted with an activated carbon filter and the new version of the optional keyless vehicle entry system, in which the transmitter signal is deactivated if the key is not moved for five minutes.