Škoda sales increased by almost a quarter in April compared to the same month last year.

The fastest-growing markets were Russia (14,231 vehicles, up 75.3% compared to last year), India (6,396 vehicles, up 50.4%) and China (22,032 vehicles, start-up period).

Škoda's bestselling model, Octavia, with 25,475 vehicles, is up by 42.9 per cent on April last year.

"We are very happy about the positive sales trends, especially as we are now waiting for the launch of the new Superb,” said Fred Kappler, Škoda Auto’s Head of sales and marketing.

"Russia, China and India accounted for 11 per cent of Škoda Auto's total sales in 2007.

"Considering the first four months of this year, the trend to grow in new markets is likely to continue in 2008," Kappler added.