Škoda Auto India has revealed plans for its latest addition to its India lineup, an all-new compact SUV set to launch in the first half of 2025. This marks the third significant product announcement following the launches of the Kushaq and the Slavia. The company’s CEO, Klaus Zellmer, emphasised the importance of India in Škoda Auto’s global growth strategy, highlighting the significant increase in sales since 2021 and the intention to expand the model range to cater to both domestic and international markets.
Key to Škoda Auto India’s strategy is the MQB-A0-IN platform, introduced with the Kushaq in 2021. Developed between teams in India and the Czech Republic, the platform prioritises localization, cost-effectiveness, and production cycles. Dr Johannes Neft, from Škoda Auto’s Board of Management, praised the platform’s technical capabilities and adaptability, which have been integral to producing vehicles tailored for the Indian market. The MQB-A0-IN platform offers up to 95% localization and customers benefit from lower ownership costs and extended warranties.
The forthcoming compact SUV will go up against the likes of the Tata Nexon and Maruti Suzuki Brezza and emphasises Škoda Auto’s commitment to India and its pivotal role in the brand’s global expansion plans. With SUVs comprising over 50% of the Indian vehicle market, Škoda aims to bolster its presence by introducing this new offering alongside the existing Kushaq and Kodiaq models.
Manufacturing facilities in Chakan and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar are the backbone of Škoda Auto India’s production and sales strategy, supporting its ambitions for further growth in the Indian market. The company’s Next Level Strategy targets a five percent market share for all Volkswagen Group brands by 2030, with a focus on enhancing local production capabilities and expanding exports to ASEAN and Middle Eastern regions.
In line with its naming tradition Škoda Auto India has launched the #NameYourSkoda campaign, inviting suggestions for the new compact SUV’s name or vote for the shortlisted names by the brand: Kylaq, Kariq, Kyroq, Kymaq, and Kwiq. The campaign is live on Škoda India’s social media handles and website.
