Skoda is taking a surprising approach to car customization, allowing its customers to decide on new paint colors through social media polls. This stands in stark contrast to other automakers who are increasingly simplifying color options to save money. The latest result? A vivid shade called Dragon Skin, chosen by fans over alternatives like Storm Blue and Tangerine Orange.
The Rise of Customer Choice
The Dragon Skin color will be available starting March 4th as an £855 ($1,152) upgrade for select Octavia models. This includes the vRS hatchback and estate versions, as well as a limited run of 130 Octavia Sportline cars later this year. This isn’t a one-off move either: Skoda previously let fans vote for Waterworld Green and Space Violet, adding them to the lineup last year.
The trend is significant because automakers are generally reducing customization options. Vibrant colors, in particular, are often cut to streamline production. But Skoda is betting that its customers want something different. Photos suggest Dragon Skin is a mix between yellow and green, likely to look even bolder in person.
Bright Colors and Manual Transmissions: Skoda’s Unexpected Popularity
Skoda buyers clearly enjoy standing out. In 2023, blue was the most popular color in the UK, with 30% of all new Skodas sold in that shade. Grey (26%), black (17%), and white (12%) trailed behind.
But Skoda’s defiance of industry norms doesn’t stop at paint. The brand also sees a high demand for manual transmissions, a segment where most automakers are pushing automatics. A remarkable 69% of Fabia cars sold in 2024 were manual, and even the Octavia had a 20% manual take rate. The Scala and Kamiq also saw strong manual numbers at 45% and 35%, respectively.
Skoda continues to cater to customers who want personalization and a more engaging driving experience in a market that is increasingly moving towards uniformity.
These preferences demonstrate that some buyers still value choice and control, even as the automotive industry trends towards simplification. This makes Skoda a standout player, betting on what its customers actually want rather than what’s most cost-effective for the manufacturer.
