Skoda CitiJet Concept: The Playful Speedster Designed by Students

Skoda amazed the Wörthersee Festival in 2014 with a unique concept, blending urban practicality and sporty fun in a rooftop-free design.

From City Car to Convertible

The CitiJet Concept was based on the Skoda Citigo, the Czech brand’s compact city car, “cousin” to the Volkswagen up! and SEAT Mii. Sixteen students from Skoda’s vocational schools, guided by former design chief Jozef Kaban, transformed it into a two-seat speedster by removing the roof, installing robust roll bars for safety, and giving it a sporty stance. Its white-and-blue paintwork, 16-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, and dual exhaust tips integrated into the diffuser emphasized the car’s playful, dynamic character.

Performance Remains Urban-Friendly

Under the hood, the CitiJet retained the stock 1.0 MPI 75 hp three-cylinder engine, ensuring city-friendly performance while keeping costs and complexity low. The concept prioritized fun and style over raw speed, proving that an everyday urban car could be transformed into an attention-grabbing, engaging machine.

A Cabin Alive with Music

Inside, the concept borrowed elements from the Citigo Sport trim: three-spoke leather steering wheel, red stitching, sports seats, and two-tone inserts. The highlight, however, was the multimedia system paired with a 300W sound system and dynamic LED lighting that changed color in sync with the music. The cabin effectively became a “rolling disco”, showcasing how technology and creativity could redefine the urban driving experience.

Innovative Design and Safety

The CitiJet’s design wasn’t just about aesthetics. The oblique side windows and compact two-seat layout emphasized its sporty intent, while the reinforced roll bars guaranteed occupant safety in an open-top configuration. This careful attention to detail made it a credible, functional concept despite its playful appearance.

Legacy of Creativity

Although the CitiJet Concept never entered production, it remains a powerful example of student-driven innovation. Skoda demonstrated how creativity and hands-on learning can transform a simple urban car into a unique, dreamlike vehicle, inspiring future designers and car enthusiasts alike.