Skoda’s Hyundai Creta rivaling compact SUV: Reveal just months away

Skoda will unveil the all-new compact SUV based on the Vision X design in March 2019. This compact SUV will sit on the MQB A0 platform, and will rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta and Renault Duster. Skoda plans to launch this SUV in India by early 2020.

Production is expected to happen at Volkswagen’s Chakan factory, and the former will also get its own iteration of this SUV. Volkswagen’s version of the Skoda compact SUV could be launched a few months later though. The new Skoda and Volkswagen compact SUVs will have extensive localization.

Moreover, the MQB A0 platform – a low cost derivative of the MQB platform – is meant for emerging markets such as India and Brazil. Skoda India is working on reducing costs to levels that will make the compact SUVs quite affordable, with pricing bang in Hyundai Creta territory.

While engines and gearboxes have not yet been officially revealed for the new Skoda and Volkswagen compact SUVs, we anticipate that the new, 1 liter-3 cylinder TSI turbocharged petrol engine will be the mainstay of both vehicles. This motor will make about 120 Bhp-200 Nm, which is sufficient for use on compact SUVs.

6 speed manual and 7 speed, twin clutch DSG automatic gearboxes are likely to accompany this engine. A diesel motor is unlikely to be a part of the equation considering the tightening emission norms. Besides, both the Skoda and Volkswagen compact SUVs will arrive at a time when the much more stringent Bharat Stage 6 (BS6) emission norms come into effect in India.

As for safety features and creature comforts, expect both the compact SUVs to be well equipped. A classy interior design that’s spartan, and robust to the touch is likely. Twin airbags, ABS, speed alert, seat belt reminder, ISOFIX child seat provisioning and reverse parking sensors will be standard across the range. As for infotainment, Volkswagen’s Mirrorlink touchscreen system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is expected. Both SUVs are likely to start at under Rs. 10 lakhs in terms of pricing.

Via AutoExpress