NEWS
Skoda contemplating Evoque rival
UK mag reports mid-sized crossover SUV to join Czech brand's product rangeSkoda is committed to expanding its line-up with a host of new models, and among them possibly a direct competitor for the Range Rover Evoque.
According to British magazine Autocar, the sporty crossover could be pitched as a budget-priced alternative to the BMW X4 and Range Rover Evoque.
The magazine reports that the Volkswagen-owned company, based in the Czech Republic, has set itself the goal of building 1.5 million cars prior to 2018. As a consequence, the article hints, Skoda is fast-tracking product development to grow sales exponentially.
Likely to be of great interest to mainstream Aussie buyers is the projected seven-seat SUV we have previously reported.
Due on sale in 2016, the all-new SUV will be priced to compete against the likes of the Hyundai Santa Fe, according to Autocar. Rather than sharing the PL73 platform that underpins the next-gen VW Touareg and Audi Q7, the big Skoda will use a stretched version of the VW Group's ubiquitous MQB architecture.
Autocar reports the Skoda SUV will be offered as standard in a five-seat format, with two additional third-row seats that can fold away into the boot floor available as an option.
As per the smaller Yeti, the proposed newcomer will be offered in front-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations, further broadening its target market.
Engineering sources quoted by Autocar have said the new SUV in all-paw form will have "lots of off-road capability", as well as the ability to tow decent-sized boats and caravans.
The large SUV will be a relative latecomer in Skoda's current product plans. Before the SUV's launch in 2016 there will be an all-new Fabia debuting this October, and Autocar suggests it will be followed three months later by a wagon derivative with class-leading luggage space.
The UK publication reports the next salvos in the arsenal will be an all-new Superb hatchback and wagon that will also use the MQB platform. Although not significantly longer than the existing model, a stretch in wheelbase and width is expected to boost passenger space and luggage capacity.
Styling-wise, the new Superb is said to draw from the Vision C concept (pictured), sporting sharper-edged lines and a more coupe-like profile. Autocar reports the third-gen Superb won't be offered with V6 engines, topping out with a 209kW 2.0-litre turbo petrol flagship.
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Written byGautam Sharma
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Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
If the price does not contain the notation that it is "Drive Away", the price may not include additional costs, such as stamp duty and other government charges.
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