Skoda to launch two new SUVs in India by 2014!

Skoda will add two new SUVs: a compact SUV and a luxury SUV which are expected to hit the global markets (including India) by 2014. The company is also readying a seven seater version of the Yeti as well.

Skoda compact SUV

Skoda is planning to launch a compact SUV to take on the Ford EcoSport and Renault Duster which are expected to hit the Indian market during the second half of 2012.

Skoda’s compact SUV will be based on the Volkswagen A0 platform. The same platform is being used by Volkswagen for developing a compact SUV. However, it is yet to be known if these compact SUVs will have a sub-four meter length to qualify for the small car excise duty sops in India.

The Skoda’s compact SUV is expected to be powered by a 1.5-litre diesel engine and a direct injection petrol engine. The Skoda compact SUV will be positioned below its premium SUV, the Yeti which is priced in the range of Rs. 13.4 lakh – 16.8 lakh. Expect the compact SUV to be priced in the range of Rs. 7 lakh – 9 lakh.

Skoda premium SUV

Skoda is planning to develop a premium SUV which could be based on the Volkswagen Touareg. Expect Skoda’s version of the Touareg to have the Czech brand’s styling and design cues. The interiors too, can be expected to have top-notch quality.

The Touareg is powered by a 3-litre, V6 diesel motor that puts out 226 bhp of power. It is yet to be known whether Skoda will use the same engine for its premium SUV. With regard to pricing, expect the Skoda SUV to cost less than the Touareg which is priced at Rs. 51.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Skoda Yeti 7-seater

Skoda is readying a seven seat version of the Yeti 5-seater. Developing a seven-seater version makes sense especially in growing car markets like India where the demand for luxury SUVs with seven seats such as the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour is high.

At present, the Yeti 5-seater which is priced at around 15 lakh price turns down potential buyers due to its premium pricing and limited seating capacity (five passengers). The Yeti 7-seater with large dimensions could stir interest among potential buyers provided Skoda offers a spacious cabin and price this SUV competitively. Also see our Skoda Yeti Video Review.

(Source: Autocar India)