Skoda is presenting its VISION IN concept study at the Auto Expo 2020. The study gives a concrete preview of a new mid-size family SUV and is the first model ever to use the MQB-A0-IN variant of the MQB car platform, which has been specially adapted for the Indian market.
As part of the INDIA 2.0 project, Skoda has been responsible for leading Volkswagen Group’s model campaign on the Indian market since June 2018. The consolidation of the three Volkswagen Group passenger-car companies previously represented in India to form the new Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL) in October 2019 marked an important milestone for the project. It enables coordinated, faster decision-making and increases efficiency by exploiting existing synergies.
The Czech car manufacturer will proceed with its SUV campaign in the rapidly growing Indian market by launching the production version of the VISION IN in early 2021. It will be the first production model to use the new, localised MQB-A0-IN platform. The VISION IN offers an optimum amount of space, perfectly combined with the highest degree of versatility and state-of-the-art technologies.
The 4,256-mm-long concept study has a wheelbase of 2,671 mm and is powered by a 1.5 TSI petrol engine that delivers 110 kW (150 PS). Its elongated lines and long wheelbase make the mid-size SUV concept study appear larger and, alongside the large bonnet and 19-inch alloy wheels, bring out the extroverted and incredibly rugged exterior design of the Skoda VISION IN.
Featuring a distinctive front and large bonnet, the VISION IN’s Skoda SUV family resemblance is clear at first glance. The wide Skoda grille features striking double slats; both the frame and the slats are made of lead crystal, and their elegance is additionally enhanced by eye-catching LED illumination.
The two-part LED headlights also exhibit crystalline structures. In the upper part, which reaches as far as the Skoda grille, stunning glass elements create the LED dipped beam, LED high beam and an L-shaped LED module for the daytime running lights and indicators.
The LED fog lights are arranged below this. The upper section of the sculpted bumper has been given added depth, is body-coloured and incorporates a wide, crystalline, mesh effect air inlet. The lower section consists of a rugged, aluminium front spoiler.
The straight roofline with panoramic glass roof and buffed aluminium roof rails convey a sporty appearance at first glance. A three-dimensional tornado line makes the vehicle look longer, while the powerful wheel arches make it appear brawny and self-assured on the road. This impression is reinforced by the car’s bold, sculptured plastic side trims in matt anthracite; 19-inch alloy wheels with polished surfaces create a manifold of light and shade effects.
The side profile of the chrome-framed windows extends all the way to the D-pillar and, exhibiting a slanted rear window and ‘SKODA in block lettering, the rear is powerful and uncluttered. Razor-sharp, L-shaped LED tail lights together with horizontal reflectors form the Skoda-typical ‘C’ of the light cluster.
A crystalline strip of light between the reflectors provides yet another visual touch, further splitting the rear into individual sections and lending it a more structured overall appearance; a rugged aluminium diffuser completes the lower section.
In the interior of the VISION IN, Skoda has combined state-of-the-art technologies and innovative vegan materials with traditional Indian design and Bohemian crystal glass art. The decorative trim on the dashboard has drawn inspiration from Kalamkari, an Indian textile printing technique that uses hand-carved wooden stamps to print traditional fabric patterns.
The interior also makes use of rhubarb leather, an innovative organic leather, as well as oak leather and the leather alternative made from waste pineapple leaves, Pinatex, for the seat covers, for example. The concept study’s roof lining is made from recycled plastic fibres and – owing to the transition from black to orange that is drawn across the entire roof – provides another distinctive visual highlight, whilst the decorative strips are made of genuine crystal.
A crystalline assistant in the centre of the dashboard acts as a bridge to the digital world, as do the free-standing central display with a 12.3-inch (31.24-cm) screen and the individually customisable Virtual Cockpit.
The VISION IN’s modern technological comforts also include shift-by-wire technology. The gear selector is no longer connected to the 7-speed DSG mechanically. Instead, it relays which gear has been chosen electronically. The classic selector lever has been replaced with a small rocker switch for operation.
The convenient electromechanical parking brake means the familiar handbrake lever is also no longer required. This creates a new sense of spaciousness and makes it possible to keep the centre console much smaller and tidier. The gained space resulting from this has – in typical, Simply Clever Skoda fashion – been used for several new storage compartments. The three-spoke steering wheel is another important component of the new interior concept.
Thanks to its large wheelbase and the MQB-A0-IN platform, the VISION IN provides an extraordinarily generous amount of space. Furthermore, it is also possible to effortlessly transform the variable back seat from a three-seat configuration into two comfortable single seats with a centre console between them. Catering to the premium look coveted on the Indian market, genuine chrome-free leather is used for the seat upholstery as well as real wood for the decorative trims.
Alongside the Karoq featuring a 1.5 TSI engine with a power output of 110 kW (150 PS) as a newcomer to the Indian market, Skoda is also showcasing a Superb L&K and a Kodiaq L&K, each fitted with a 2.0 TSI delivering 140 kW (190 PS), at the Auto Expo 2020 in New Delhi. The sporty Octavia RS 245 producing 180 kW (245 PS), the Rapid 1.0 TSI in the Monte Carlo trim level and Matte Concept, as well as a 2.0 TDI Superb Sportline outputting 140 kW (190 PS), round off the Skoda models on display at the exhibition.
In addition to current models, Skoda will also exhibit a 1948 Skoda Superb OHV at its stand. The vehicle equipped with bodywork manufactured in the Kvasiny plant has been lovingly restored over the last three years.
2020 Skoda VISION IN Images:
