Skoda announces all-new Skoda compact SUV for the Indian market

All-new Skoda compact SUV: Skoda Auto India has declared its latest move in the Indian automotive market with the announcement of an upcoming compact SUV, marking the next phase of its product expansion strategy in the country following the launches of the Kushaq and Slavia models. The introduction of this strategically significant vehicle, developed and manufactured in India is poised to fortify Škoda Auto’s presence in the market. Scheduled for a debut in the first half of 2025, the sub-4-meter SUV is anticipated to be introduced in the compact segment.

The forthcoming compact SUV is positioned to appeal to a broader spectrum of customers, particularly targeting the compact segment. By leveraging the benefits conferred to sub-4-meter vehicles under Indian tax regulations, Skoda Auto aims to offer competitive pricing, further enhancing its appeal among buyers.

In a bid to foster direct engagement with its audience, Skoda Auto India has launched the #NameYourSkoda campaign, inviting customers to contribute to the naming process for the upcoming SUV. While the company has put forth seven registered names for consideration, it eagerly welcomes suggestions from the public. The final name, chosen through this participatory initiative, is slated for unveiling later this year.

The new compact SUV represents the third offering from Skoda based on this architecture. Engineered collaboratively by teams in India and the Czech Republic, the platform prioritizes high localization, cost-effectiveness, and agility in development. Designed specifically to meet the unique demands of the Indian market, it integrates efficient powertrains and cutting-edge safety technologies to comply with the nation’s stringent regulatory standards, the company claims.

Notably, Skoda's preceding models, the Kushaq and Slavia has already received full 5-star ratings for both adult and child occupants in Global NCAP crash tests conducted in October 2022 and April 2023, respectively.

"The initiative in the Indian market aligns seamlessly with Skoda Auto’s overarching Next Level Strategy, which aims to achieve significant milestones by 2026, including annual sales of 100,000 vehicles, leadership as the best-selling European brand by 2030, and a five percent market share for all Volkswagen Group brands," said the company.