Skoda India, apart from confirming the launch of the Enyaq iV in 2024, announced at a recent media gathering that it will introduce its new sub-4m SUV by March 2025. To that end, the latter has been spotted for the first time undergoing road testing. The new Skoda Compact SUV will be based on the MQB A0-IN platform that serves as the backbone of the Slavia and Kushaq; however, it will have a shorter wheelbase than the Kushaq's, measuring 2,566mm. Moving to its design, we can see wraparound LED tail lamps, a spoiler-mounted brake light, a shark-fin antenna, and faux roof rails, although the camouflage hides many details.
The front is not visible, but based on the teaser released by the company, it can be said that the new Skoda SUV will get the brand's signature grille, split LED headlamps with daytime running lights, a large air vent, and a muscular bonnet with creases similar to that of the Kushaq. In profile, the vehicle will have smaller wheels than the Kushaq's as well as beefy wheel arches.
Skoda Compact SUV: Powertrain
The new Skoda SUV will use the same 1.0-litre, three-cylinder, TSI petrol engine as the Kushaq and the Slavia. This made-in-India engine belts out 115bhp and 178Nm of peak torque. On offer will be a six-speed manual and a six-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.
Skoda Compact SUV: Price, Rivals
Skoda's new SUV will be priced competitively in India, according to Klaus Zellmer, CEO, Skoda Auto. Though the price announcement is some time away, we expect it to be offered in the range of Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom). At this price point, the car will compete against the Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Mahindra XUV300, Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue, and more in the segment. Skoda also says this SUV will not be limited to the Indian market; it will subsequently find its way to South America, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
With the upcoming compact SUV, Skoda India aims to achieve sales of 1 lakh vehicles in India by 2026 while targeting a 5 per cent market share by the end of the decade.
Skoda Kushaq, Slavia Facelifts to Get ADAS Tech
In other news, the facelifted Skoda Kushaq and Slavia SUVs will be updated with ADAS 2.0 technology, to keep pace with rivals like the Honda City, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and others. A 360-degree camera, which is currently missing from both models, is also on the cards.
This suggests that Skoda's upcoming Compact SUV, a part of the company's India 2.5 strategy, could get these premium features when it arrives next year.
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