The compact SUV will launch in H1 2025
- Slots in below Kushaq
- Third made-for-india model
- Likely to get 1.0 TSI engine
Skoda has unveiled plans for a new compact SUV made for the India market. Along with revealing the teaser sketch, it also announced future plans for the brand as well as a new EV to be launched later this year.
Skoda Compact SUV
According to Skoda, the new compact SUV will be based on the same MQB-A0-IN platform which also underpins the Kushaq and Slavia. This platform, developed specifically for India will be the brand’s mainstay in India for the near future. Further, the new SUV will measure under 4 metres in length to avail of the lower excise duty and hence, expect it to be priced competitively. Being the new entry-level model, it will slot in below the Kushaq and is likely to be powered by the 1.0 TSI turbo-petrol powertrain with automatic and manual transmissions. With this model, Skoda aims to target Tier 3 cities to increase market penetration. When launched, it should compete with other sub 4 metre crossovers such as the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue and Kia Sonet.
Notably, this will remain exclusive to the Skoda brand and won’t spawn a Volkswagen derivation in the near future. While the name has not been decided, there are 4 names under consideration- Kwiq, Kylaq, Kariq, Kymaq and Kyroq. Skoda fans can participate in the contest by sharing their name suggestions on social media, choosing from the provided options or proposing a new name. The winner of the contest will receive a brand-new Skoda Sub 4m SUV for free, while 10 lucky participants will be awarded a trip to Prague to visit the Skoda manufacturing plant.
Skoda targets 5 percent marketshare; EV plans
Along with these plans, Skoda also revealed its future target of selling 1,00,000 cars annually by the year 2026 and garnering atleast 5% marketshare. Skoda also said that the last two years were the best in its history with more than 1,00,000 units sold over a two-year period. With the MQB-A0-IN platform, Skoda has also achieved up to 95% localisation which has helped in making the cars more competitive. The Kushaq and Slavia are also built in india and exported to ASEAN and middle-eastern markets in significant numbers.
Skoda also shared that they are considering launching the Enyaq iV which is currently being tested, in the near future. Notably, the Enyaq iV is one of the best selling fully-electric cars in Europe and will be the Volkswagen group’s first foray into the EV space in India. Internationally, the Enyaq iV gets powered by a 265HP motor backed by an 82kWh battery in its highest specification. 0-100 Kmph timings are rated at just 6.9 seconds with a 502km claimed range.
Kushaq Explorer Edition
At the event, Skoda also had a special Explorer edition concept on display. The Explorer edition gets many cosmetic changes such as a matte green paint, blacked out exterior trims, orange inserts and revised skid plates. Inside, the Explorer edition gets a similar matte green insert on the dashboard as well as orange stitching on the seats. Feature additions include a heads-up display and 360 degree camera.
The Explorer edition remains mechanically unchanged and gets powered by the 1.5L TSI turbo-petrol engine making 150HP and 250NM while being paired to a 6 speed manual gearbox. It also features all-terrain tyres. Skoda is considering launching this based on public response and if launched, it will be the third special edition based on the Kushaq after the Monte Carlo and Matte Editions.
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