A firm Favorit? Skoda creates another classic-inspired concept
Skoda takes on its boldest concept to date
The next instalment of Skoda’s classic-inspired concept series is here.
Following last month’s Slavia B concept - a modern take on the Laurin & Klement’s 1899 motorcycle - Skoda has now reimagined the Favorit hot hatch.
The classic Favorit originally went into production in 1987 after being developed in challenging conditions with limited resources in what was then Czechoslovakia. It went on to become one of Central Europe’s most popular cars and was exported to the likes of Russia, Israel and South America.
Its success grabbed the attention of Volkswagen, which, in conjunction with Skoda, developed the Favorit’s replacement in 1994 - the Felicia.
A striking, modern interpretation
Designer Ljudmil Slavov was tasked with reimagining the Favorit as a modern day car, while still retaining the spirit of the original. As with the majority of today’s hatchbacks, that means a bulkier overall - or Modern Solid, as Slavov later puts it - with smoother edges, and in concept terms, it’s as futuristic looking as you’d expect.
“I didn’t want to rely on current design elements like the Tech-Deck Face,” Slavov explains. “This is a tribute to the Favorit, so I carefully studied the original details, aiming to evolve and elevate them. Simplifying an already minimalistic shape into the Modern Solid style was genuinely challenging.”
Back in the 1980s, the large mass-produced headlamps available at the time were painstakingly worked into the front of the Favorit, and while ultra-slim LED strips are used at the front and rear for the concept, that large outline is mirrored in a nod to the original.
As with the Slavia B, the Favorit isn’t expected to head into production any time soon, if ever. However, with more concepts set to be revealed, it may provide a deeper insight into how Skodas of the future will turn out.
READ: Skoda Slavia B concept brings 1899 motorcycle into the future
words: Mike Booth
pictures: Skoda