Skoda Auto India is all set to announce the official name of its upcoming sub-4 metre SUV on 21st August 2024. This new model will come under the brand’s India 2.0 project in the first quarter of 2025. Similar to the Kushaq and Slavia, the new Skoda compact SUV will underpin the MQB-A0-IN platform but will have a shorter wheelbase. It’s likely to feature Skoda’s signature slatted grille and split headlamp setup at the front. The compact SUV will have a kinked glasshouse and will miss out on the front and rear overhangs.
Speculations suggest that the model might share some of its features with the Slavia and Kushaq. We expect it to come with a floating touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, ambient lighting, USB-C ports, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, multiple airbags, ABS with electronic stability control and EBD, traction control, auto start-stop function, rear parking sensors, Isofix anchors, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. Features such as a 360-degree camera and ADAS tech might also be on offer.
The engine setup will also be borrowed from the Kushaq. The new Skoda compact SUV will derive power from the 1.0L, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine, pushing out a peak power of 115bhp and 178Nm of torque. Buyers will get two gearbox options – a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic.
The company aims to sell around 60,000 – 90,000 units of the new Skoda subcompact SUV on an annual basis. When launched, it will compete against the sub-4 metre SUVs including Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Mahindra XUV300, and Tata Nexon.
Besides the all-new compact SUV, Skoda will update its existing Slavia sedan and Kushaq midsize SUV in 2025. Both models are expected to receive minimal changes inside and out, while the engine-gearbox combinations are likely to be retained.
