Skoda has officially confirmed the launch of a new compact SUV in India, aiming to capture a larger slice of the market and compete directly with established rivals like Maruti, Hyundai, Tata Motors and Kia. Currently, the Maruti Brezza and Tata Nexon lead India’s sub-4 meter compact SUV segment.
Render courtesy AutoExpress
Scheduled for a March 2025 arrival, the SUV will be based on the MQB A0-IN platform which is also utilized by the Kushaq, Slavia and Volkswagen cars. The teaser image released by Skoda hints at a new design language with modern and sleek elements. There is no information about what Skoda could name this SUV.
This strategic move into the sub-4 meter segment allows Skoda to save on the excise duty cut in India. This makes their Sub 4m SUV more competitive in terms of price and size compared to their mid-size SUV – Kushaq. This could potentially lead Skoda towards the mainstream marke especially considering the success of the Slavia and its competitor, the VW Virtus.
Key Features and Design:
• The new SUV will likely be smaller than the Kushaq, with a expected reduction in length of around 22 centimeters. This adjustment is expected to primarily affect the front end which means the nose will be shrunk down.
• The wheelbase may also be slightly shorter compared to the Kushaq’s 2651 mm.
• To keep the costs in control, the body panels will likely be simpler and lack the creases and fold seen on the Kushaq and Slavia. Curvy and sharp body panels cost much more to produce.
• Familiar engine options are expected, including the 1.0 TSI unit producing 115hp and 178Nm. Although the fuel efficiency could be better considering the reduction in the size and weight as compared to the Kushaq.
• Smaller wheels compared to the Kushaq are also anticipated.
• The transmission options will likely include the existing 6-speed manual and automatic gearbox.
• Visually, the teaser suggests a modern front-end design with elements like slim LED DRLs and a large air vent.
Positioning and Price:
• The compact SUV is envisioned as a global model which will be exported to various markets like South America, Southeast Asia, and Africa. This broader market reach is expected to contribute to the platform’s success.
• Skoda aims to achieve significant sales figures and they are targeting 1 lakh units annually and a 5% market share by 2030.
• Recognizing the importance of competitive pricing, Skoda CEO, Klaus Zellmer, emphasized the need to be very price competitive in India. This means we can expect a price range of Rs 9-14 lakh which means the SUV will compete with cars like Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV 300.
Skoda is aware of the learnings from Volkswagen’s previous attempt in the sub-4 meter segment with the Ameo which ultimately fell short due to various factors. This knowledge will likely guide Skoda towards a more well-equipped, competitively priced and visually appealing compact SUV. Should this worry the Maruti Brezza? Only time can tell!
The post Skoda’s Maruti Brezza Rival Confirmed For Launch In March 2025: Details first appeared on Cartoq.
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