5 Facts About Skoda's Upcoming Sub-4m SUV in India

 

Skoda has prioritised its development in the Indian automotive market in recent years. Following the introduction of two well-received models in 2021, Kushaq and Slavia, the Czech brand intends to enter the hotly contested sub-4m SUV segment as well. Here's everything we already know about the upcoming Skoda:

First sub-4m offering on the MQB A0 IN platform

When it comes to the development of the MQB A0 platform, Skoda is ahead of the rest of the Volkswagen Group. It has already debuted two products on the heavily localised MQB A0 IN platform, and the new SUV will be added to the list. It will, however, be the first sub-4m offering on this platform, as part of Skoda-"India VW's 2.5" strategy. Furthermore, it will be a global offering rather than just for the Indian market.

It will be offered with just one engine

The Skoda-VW compact car lineup is currently powered by two turbo-petrol engines, and only one will fit the pricing of the sub-compact SUV space. That would be the 1-litre TSI turbo-petrol unit, most likely tuned to the same 115PS output. It will be available with the same 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmissions.

Will feature new design language

Skoda announced at its annual conference that it will launch a new design language called 'Modern Solid' in the second half of 2022. While it is expected to make its debut on new EVs and premium vehicles, the India-centric sub-4m offering will most likely use the same design language. As a result, don't expect it to resemble a mini-Kushaq or a micro-Kodiaq.

Will be ready for electrification

A new sub-compact offering for developing markets like India must be future-proof. As a result, the next SUV will almost certainly be compatible with electric components. This includes mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, the latter of which can provide EV-only driving modes over short distances.

Likely to offer similar feature-set as the Kushaq

While the next compact SUV from Skoda is expected to look a lot different on the outside, it is likely to have commonalities with the current models on the inside. The upcoming Hyundai Venue rival is expected to get a similar feature-set as the Kushaq, especially equipment like the 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It would likely get added conveniences such as rain-sensing wipers, ventilated front seats, and six airbags.

Expected launch and pricing

A subcompact SUV based on the MQB A0 IN platform could be ready for production by 2024. We can expect an early concept to debut as early as 2023, just in time for the next Auto Expo. Skoda's pricing will, of course, be on the higher end, with a target range of Rs 8 lakh to Rs 14 lakh (ex-showroom). It would compete with the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Maruti Vitara Brezza, Renault Kiger, Nissan Magnite, Toyota Urban Cruiser, and Mahindra XUV300.