Škoda Auto accelerates growth in India with announcement of new compact SUV

Škoda Auto has announced plans for an all-new compact SUV, slated to debut in the first half of 2025. This announcement marks the company’s third major product initiative designed specifically for the Indian market, following the successful launches of the Kushaq and the Slavia.

The upcoming SUV, built on the MQB-A0-IN platform shared with its predecessors, underlines Škoda’s commitment to catering to Indian consumers’ needs. Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto a.s, emphasized India’s pivotal role in the brand’s global growth strategy, citing the country’s market strength and significance as a development and manufacturing base. Dr Johannes Neft, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development, highlighted the platform’s technical prowess, which prioritizes high localization and low ownership costs. Martin Jahn, Member of the Board of Management for Sales & Marketing, reiterated Škoda’s commitment to India’s automotive landscape, aiming for a market share of around 5 percent by 2030.

Piyush Arora, Managing Director and CEO of Škoda Auto Volkswagen India (SAVWIPL), emphasized the company’s focus on local production and expansion, supported by a robust supplier base. Additionally, a naming contest, #NameYourSkoda, has been announced to engage consumers in christening the new SUV.