Skoda Auto is ready to foray into the highly competitive subcompact SUV with an all-new model by March 2025. The upcoming new Skoda compact SUV, currently in its initial testing phase, is essentially the smaller version of the Kushaq. Here, it will be positioned against the cars like Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV 3XO. Let’s take a look at key details of the vehicle that we know so far.
The new Skoda compact SUV will have shorter wheelbase, measuring 2,566mm, than the Kushaq. However, it will underpin the same MQB A0 IN platform that’s used for its elder sibling. Designed specifically for the Indian market, this architecture has been localised up to 82 percent (excluding the powertrains) that makes it cost-effective.
Compared to the Kushaq, the new Skoda subcompact SUV will have shorter front and rear overhands. Additionally, its rear quarter glass area appears different from its sibling. The model is likely to carry Skoda’s familiar front grille, headlamps with split setup and slim LED DRLs. Some of its other design highlights will include roof rails, a roof mounted spoiler with integrated brake light and wraparound LED taillamps.
Interior layout could share resemblance with the Kushaq. The new Skoda compact SUV is expected to come with layered dashboard with integrated 8-inch freestanding touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a new semi-digital instrument cluster, automatic AC, rear AC vents, a multi-functional steering wheel, reverse camera and more.
The company has already confirmed that its upcoming subcompact SUV will use the 1.0L, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine that’s good enough for 115bhp and 178Nm. It can be had with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox.
Prices of the new Skoda compact SUV are likely to start around 9 lakh for the base variant and go up to Rs 14 lakh for the top-end trim.
