Skoda to introduce new compact SUV in India in the first half of 2025, set to challenge Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, and Hyundai Venue.

New Delhi: Skoda Auto India has announced that it will be launching a sub-4 metre compact SUV in the first half of 2025. This new model, which will be developed and manufactured in India, aims to compete with popular vehicles such as the Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and Mahindra XUV300.

Similar to the Skoda Slavia mid-size sedan and the Skoda Kushaq mid-size SUV, the upcoming compact SUV from Skoda will be based on the India-specific MQB-A0-IN platform. This platform has been collaboratively developed by teams in India and the Czech Republic, and it places a strong emphasis on localisation, cost-effectiveness, and efficient production processes. Interestingly, this marks the first time that Skoda has developed a platform outside of Europe.

One notable aspect of Skoda’s approach to this launch is their decision to involve customers in the selection of the compact SUV’s name. The official announcement regarding the chosen name is expected to be made later this year.

Skoda has also stated their commitment to passing on the benefits of excise pricing to customers. As the brand’s entry-level offering in the Indian market, the compact SUV is anticipated to be a high-volume seller. With a target of selling 100,000 units annually in India by 2026, Skoda is determined to become the leading European brand in the country by 2030 and secure a 5% market share for all Volkswagen Group brands.

These endeavors in the Indian market align with Skoda’s Next Level Strategy, which aims to further strengthen the company’s global growth. Skoda CEO Klaus Zellmer emphasized the significance of India due to its robust market potential and its role as a development and manufacturing hub for expanding into new markets, including ASEAN and the Middle East.

“We have more than doubled sales in India since 2021 and we are now taking the next step by further expanding the range of models designed for customers in India and internationally. The all-new compact SUV, due in 2025, will add an important segment for customers. I’m confident the expanding Skoda portfolio will contribute to our India growth target of achieving a market share for the Volkswagen family of brands of around 5% by 2030,” he added.

In summary, Skoda Auto India is preparing to introduce a sub-4 metre compact SUV in India, designed to rival prominent players in the segment. This vehicle will be built on the India-specific MQB-A0-IN platform, emphasizing localisation and cost efficiency. Seeking to engage customers, Skoda is involving them in the selection of the SUV’s name. By leveraging the Indian market and its production capabilities, Skoda aims to achieve substantial growth both regionally and globally, underlining the importance of India in their strategic plans.