Škoda will launch an all-new compact SUV in the Indian market in the first half of 2025: the brand's internationalization is gaining momentum and is aimed at an annual target of 100,000 vehicles.
Škoda should achieve this figure in India by 2026. The car will be produced locally and will be a continuation of the product offensive after the launch of the Kushaq and Slavia models in that market.
A compact SUV based on the MQB-A0-IN platform is regarded by the manufacturer as the brand's entry-level product for the Indian market. Adding to the appeal is the fact that the SUV's promotion will be helped by excise benefits for sub-4 meter vehicles available in India. Customers will definitely take advantage of these benefits, since such pricing will stimulate purchases.
The new compact SUV will be the third Škoda product based on the MQB-A0-IN platform. It shares the same DNA with superior performance and safety as the other two models Kushaq and Slavia, which are locally designed and manufactured.
“India is critical to Škoda Auto's global growth. We have more than doubled our sales in India since 2021 and are now taking the next step by expanding our range of models designed for customers in India and abroad. All-new compact SUV will add an important segment for customers. The expansion of the Škoda portfolio will contribute to our growth target in India to achieve a market share of around 5 percent for the Volkswagen family of brands by 2030,” said Škoda Auto CEO Klaus Zellmer.
The SUV is being built on the MQB-A0-IN platform. The manufacturer did not disclose any more details about the newcomer.. Photo: Škoda
The platform is jointly developed by teams in India and the Czech Republic with an emphasis on high localization, low cost of ownership and fast turnaround time. Brand managers emphasize that this is the first platform developed by the company outside of Europe and created specifically for the Indian market. This framework enables efficient engines and advanced safety systems, and is designed specifically for the Indian market and to meet the country's emissions requirements.
The MQB-A0-IN platform has already proven its strength in India and the world with the Kushaq and Slavia receiving a full 5 stars for adults and children during Global NCAP crash tests in October 2022 and April 2023 respectively.
The SUV has not yet received its own name. The car manufacturer has only shared seven names with the public and is encouraging fans of the brand to submit their name suggestions. It will be officially approved a little later.