Skoda has seen a significant increase in their sales numbers after the launch of their first India-specific mid-size SUV Kushaq. Skoda has now stepped into the most heated segment in India, the Sub-4-meter SUV segment. Quality and equipment have always been a USP for Skoda. This new compact SUV will be no different. It is expected to stick to Skoda’s strength. Sales will be an obvious after-effect. We have tried to look deep into what is expected from the new car.
Design
Skoda cars have always been known for their elegant and clean designs. The new Compact SUV is expected to follow the same design language. Some spy shots have revealed the sophisticated, signature ‘butterfly front grille’. The new teased images highlight the butchy lines across the front bonnet and the wheel arches. The design will retain the typical Skoda SUV language in the front and add details like refined and precise DRL light signatures.
The rear section gives an idea about the tail lamps. There is nor light bar connecting the tail lamps. This is a very conventional approach from Skoda.
The design is mostly towards the more traditional style. The car looks to target a mass market. It will definitely be a fresh option in the segment with very elegant looks.
Platform
The upcoming compact SUV is based on the MQB-A0-IN platform present on Skoda’s 2.0 products. The MQB-A0-IN platform was developed specifically for India. It is a very safe and capable platform. Kushaq, Taigun, Slavia and Virtus are cars based on this platform that have earned a 5-star rating for adults and children in Global NCAP’s safety tests.
Naming
Skoda Auto India announced that they will name their new compact SUV on the people’s suggestions. They also announced a contest where the name chosen from all the suggestions would win the car. Skoda has shortlisted 10 names for their upcoming compact SUV. The 10 names are Kwiq, Kymaq, Kylaq, Kariq, Kyroq, Kosmiq, Kayaq, Kaiq, Kliq and Karmiq.
We see a pattern of starting with ‘K’ and ending with ‘Q’.
Localization Plans
Skoda India wants to get the SUV competitive in terms of pricing. They have decided to localize the parts. They also want to export the compact SUV made in India, to other neighbouring countries.
“The sub-four-metre SUV will have 75-76 percent localisation. Its pricing will use excise benefits and pass them on to customers. What we are going to do differently is to learn from the lessons so far.”, said the Skoda Auto CEO Klaus Zellmer.
Competition
The sub-4-meter SUV segment is very popular in India. Many of these cars appear on the top 10 selling cars list, every month.
The major competitors for the upcoming compact SUV form Skoda are:
- Tata Nexon
- Maruti Suzuki Brezza
- Mahindra 3XO
- Hyundai Venue
- Kia Sonet
- Nissan Magnite
- Renault Kiger
Engine
The car is expected to have a 1.0 Turbocharged petrol engine with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed Automatic gearbox. This combination is also available in the Slavia and Kushaq.
Power: 114 bhp
Torque: 178 Nm
This engine has been known for its reliability and efficiency. The new compact SUV will have smaller dimensions and less weight. This engine will feel much more peppy and efficient than the bigger Skodas with same engine.
However, the bigger 1.5-litre TSI engine and the 7-speed DCT gearbox are not expected in the SUV’s lineup.
