Mumbai, July 15, 2024 – Škoda Auto India has shared a second design teaser for its first-ever compact SUV, scheduled for a world debut in India in 2025. This new vehicle marks a significant milestone for Škoda as it continues its growth trajectory in the Indian market.
In a statement accompanying the teaser release, Petr Janeba, Brand Director of Škoda Auto India, highlighted the brand’s commitment to India. “We began 2024 with the announcement of our all-new compact SUV. Midway through the year, we are on track with rigorous testing on Indian roads and refining the finer details. This compact SUV will democratize our European technology on Indian roads, offering a ‘big car’ feel within a compact footprint, which we believe will appeal to new car buyers.”
Design and Platform
The upcoming SUV is based on the MQB-A0-IN platform, developed specifically for India. This platform, used in larger cars like the Kushaq and Slavia, promises dynamics and handling akin to bigger vehicles while maintaining a compact size. The design incorporates Škoda’s Modern Solid design ethos, characterized by clear, simple lines reflecting the brand’s quality and solidity.
Bold and Muscular Design
The design team has focused on creating bold and muscular shapes, especially around the fenders, to enhance the vehicle’s stance and road presence. The SUV will feature high ground clearance and ample space around the wheels, making it suitable for uneven roads and emphasizing its SUV character. Key design elements include a typical Škoda front, refined DRL light signatures, and a hexagon pattern on the sides and rear.
Strategic Importance
This compact SUV will compete in the sub-4-metre segment, representing Škoda’s first venture into this market. The vehicle aims to attract new customers and expand Škoda’s reach in India. The MQB-A0-IN platform, a collaborative effort between teams in India and the Czech Republic, underpins the new SUV. Vehicles on this platform, like the Kushaq and Slavia, have achieved 5-star safety ratings under Global NCAP’s tests and are exported to 14 countries.
Future Prospects
Škoda Auto India is poised for further growth, leveraging a diverse product lineup including the Kushaq SUV, Slavia sedan, Kodiaq luxury 4×4, and Superb luxury sedan. With plans to expand customer touchpoints and introduce this new compact SUV, Škoda is strengthening its footprint in India, its most crucial market outside Europe.
