- The mid-size SUV concept will preview the India-spec Skoda Kamiq.
- The production version is likely to be launched in India by mid-2021.
Under its India 2.0 project, Skoda India is working on a mid-size SUV for the domestic market. And now, we can confirm that Skoda will showcase their mid-size SUV concept at the upcoming Auto Expo 2020. According to the company, the concept will be a design study that previews the Skoda mid-size SUV, which is expected to be launched in India around mid-2021.
The mid-size SUV is expected to be called the Skoda Kamiq and will be Skoda’s version of the Volkswagen T-Cross, which too is expected to be launched in India in 2021. It will be based on the MQB A0-IN platform, which has been highly modified for India. Compared to the European-spec model, the Indian version of the mid-size SUV will be bigger and will have a longer wheelbase. This should result in a spacious cabin with increased knee and legroom.
Interior and exterior styling are expected to be largely similar to the European-spec Skoda Kamiq. However, the Indian-spec model will likely have larger doors and windows. Under the hood, it is expected to be powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder EVO TSI petrol engine that produces 130bhp. This engine features cylinder-deactivation technology, which helps in achieving better fuel efficiency. Lower variants could get a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol unit that develops 115bhp. Skoda India is also looking at introducing a CNG version of the car. However, there’s no word on a diesel derivative at present, and the company is expected to take a call in due time.
The Skoda mid-size SUV will rival against the likes of the Kia Seltos, next-gen Hyundai Creta, Tata Harrier, MG Hector, Nissan Kicks and the upcoming Volkswagen T-Cross. It is expected to be priced in the bracket of Rs 15-20 lakhs (on the road).