Skoda Vision X-based SUV to use low-cost version of VW’s MQB platform
Skoda showcased the Vision X SUV concept at the Geneva Motor Show, and this vehicle will be the inspiration for Skoda’s next big mass-market offering for the Indian market. The automaker will build an SUV that will rival the Hyundai Creta, and introduce it in India sometime in 2020. It will use a low-cost version of the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform and will be a derivative of the Vision X SUV concept.
Oliver Stefani, Skodaís head of design, said, “What we are looking at is a car that will draw inspiration from the Vision X, but, after my recent visit to India, I have realized we would need to offer more space in the rear.”
The new Skoda SUV will also become the base of a new offering from Volkswagen, but with different styling and body panels. Both the Skoda and Volkswagen SUVs for India are expected to use the same platform and engines. This is to keep costs low and give the Volkswagen group volumes of scale in the Indian market. Skoda is expected to take over the Volkswagen factory at Chakan and lead the charge as the group’s big bet for the Indian market.
In terms of engines for the new Skoda Vision X-based compact SUV, nothing is sure at the moment. However, with Volkswagen unwilling to invest energies and resources into bringing the 1.5-liter TDI EA189 turbocharged diesel engine in compliance with the Bharat Stage 6 emission norms, the focus shifts to the 2-liter EA288 diesel engine for powering the upcoming Skoda compact SUV for India. As for petrol engines, the SUV is expected to use a turbocharged, direct injected unit from Volkswagen’s TSI range. The 1 liter-3 cylinder TSI turbocharged petrol motor is likely. Both manual and twin-clutch automatic gearbox options are likely to be available with the petrol and diesel engines. Similar hardware is expected on the Volkswagen-badged compact SUV, which will also launch in 2020.
[“Source-cartoq”]