Škoda Unveils All-New Compact SUV for India, Accelerates Internationalization Strategy
After the global success of Kushaq and Slavia models, Skoda is all set to get ready for yet another successful venture as it unveils an all-new compact SUV as the next step of its product offensive in the country. This car is developed and manufactured in India, the strategically significant new vehicle will improve Škoda Auto's market position and expedite the company's globalization drive. In the first half of 2025, the sub-4-meter SUV is scheduled to make its debut in India.
"India is crucial to the global growth of Škoda Auto, both because of its market strength and as a development and manufacturing base for our expansion in new markets including ASEAN and the Middle East," stated Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto. Additionally, By 2030, the business wants the Volkswagen family of brands to have about 5% of the Indian market.
"With the all-new compact SUV, we are underlining our commitment to India and its importance to our internationalization plans," said Martin Jahn, a board member of Škoda Auto responsible for sales and marketing. They believe to have an even greater SUV portfolio for India with the Kushaq and Kodiaq, which account for over 50% of all vehicle sales in the country.
After the Kushaq and Slavia, the next small SUV will be the third Škoda vehicle to be built on the MQB-A0-IN platform. Developed together by teams in the Czech Republic and India, the platform prioritizes fast turnaround times, cheap cost of ownership, and high localization.
This is the company's first platform designed for the Indian market that was created outside of Europe.
With the Kushaq and Slavia receiving perfect 5-star ratings for adult and child occupants in Global NCAP crash tests, the MQB-A0-IN platform has already shown its mettle in India and around the globe. These vehicles were the first in India to undergo testing using the then-newer, more stringent Global NCAP test standards, and they were also the first to receive five stars for both adult and Children's safety.
Skoda has confirmed that the compact SUV will be equipped with a robust 115hp, 178Nm, 1.0-liter, three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine. This engine will be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission, promising a dynamic and efficient performance on the road. Additionally, being lighter than the Kushaq, the compact SUV is expected to deliver enhanced performance and fuel efficiency, catering to the needs of modern drivers.
New spy photos have revealed interesting design elements for the tiny SUV. Interestingly, the SUV's rear door is marginally shorter than the Kushaq's because of its 85mm shorter wheelbase. To comply with the sub-4m mark requirement, the rear glass area has been altered, and the front and back overhangs have been adjusted.
Additionally, a unique design language from Skoda featuring a butterfly grille, split headlight configuration, and smooth surfaces is anticipated. To cut costs, the small SUV won't share body panels with the Kushaq, but it should still have a family resemblance, maybe looking like a smaller Kushaq.
Skoda's commitment to satisfying the wide range of market demands is demonstrated by its aim to provide a feature-rich, economical, and compact SUV at a competitive price
Skoda's commitment to satisfying the wide range of market demands is demonstrated by its aim to provide a feature-rich, economical, and compact SUV at a competitive price. Skoda's next compact SUV, which focuses on innovation, performance, and design, is expected to have a big impact on the competitive SUV market.
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