In a significant move to expand its footprint in the Indian automobile market, Skoda Auto is reportedly planning to introduce a new compact-SUV. This upcoming model is set to rival the popular Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and the Tata Nexon marking a new chapter in the fiercely competitive compact-SUV segment.
Skoda’s decision to venture into the compact-SUV market comes at a time when the segment is witnessing unprecedented growth. The Hyundai Venue, with its impressive features and competitive pricing, has been a dominant player. The Kia Sonet too with its recent facelift is raking in good sales along with the Tata Nexon, which closely competes with the Hyundai Venue. Skoda’s entry could potentially shake up the market dynamics.
Skoda has been steadily increasing its presence in India, with the Kushaq and the Slavia under the India 2.0 program. The introduction of a compact-SUV is seen as a strategic move to tap into the growing demand for smaller SUV vehicles. The compact-SUV will be brought the internal code name India 2.5 program. The sub-4 metre SUV will use the same platform as the Kushaq. This will be Skoda’s first compact-SUV after they stopped production of the Fabia.
While specific details about the new compact-SUV are yet to be officially announced, it is expected that Skoda will equip the compact-SUV with the 1.0L TSI engine that makes 115 PS and 175 Nm of torque. This will enable Skoda to avail the lower GST bracket for SUVs at less than 1200 cc and that are less than 4 meters in length. This will allow Skoda to price the car competitively.
The SUV will also be equipped with all the features that are offered on the Skoda Kushaq – cruise control, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 7-inch infotainment screen, and wireless charging, to name a few. It will also get the 6-speed manual and the 6-speed automatic transmission, like the Slavia and the Kushaq.
In terms of pricing, we can expect the upcoming India 2.5 SUV to be priced very competitively. An aggressive starting price of ₹7.5 – ₹8 lakh could shake-up the segment.