Skoda Auto has announced that the brand will now be responsible for developing the Volkswagen Group’s existing MQB-A0 Global Platform. The Group will use the platform to develop Skoda and Volkswagen’s new entry-level models. The new models based on the MQB-A0 platform will make their debut in India, Russia and Africa. Furthermore, the brand will also use the MQB-A0 platform for ASEAN countries as well as Latin America. The brand has already introduced a new iteration of the MQB-Ao-IN for the Indian market.
Skoda has announced that the brand will be utilising its ability to coordinate complex Group projects and experience in entry-level segments. The brand has also revealed that the company will implement this project in individual regions. This will help the brand take even more responsibility within the Volkswagen Group and at the same time strengthen its European headquarters as an important centre for the Group. The MQB-A0 platform will help bolster the Group’s position in the entry-level segments, revealed the brand.
The Skoda Kushaq was the first vehicle from Skoda Auto to use the MQB-A0-IN platform. Skoda Auto developed the Indianised version of the MQB-A0 with the help of local engineers. The brand also managed to localise 95% of the vehicle for the Indian market as well as sales abroad. The Kushaq measures 4225mm in length, 1760mm in width, 1612mm in height, and comes with a wheelbase of 2,651 mm. The brand also offers a 385-litre of boot space with the Kushaq.
The sedan is likely to be underpinned by the MQB-A0-IN platform. Skoda is also developing a premium mid-size sedan which has been christened as the Skoda Slavia. The Slavia will position itself above the Skoda Rapid, bridging the gap between the Skoda Rapid and the Octavia. Skoda will soon start the road testing of the Slavia in the Indian market, using the latest award-winning camouflage.
The second Indian vehicle to use the MQB-A0-IN platform is the Volkswagen Taigun. The SUV starts with a price tag of INR 10.49 lakh ex-showroom. The Taigun also boasts multiple safety features. Volkswagen is also planning to introduce a new sedan in the Indian market to position itself above the Vento.
Also Read: Skoda’s new premium mid-size sedan named as SLAVIA