Skoda reveals VisionS SUV concept 17 | 02 | 2016
SKODA HAS GIVEN us a preview of its forthcoming 'Kodiaq' SUV by revealing its VisionS concept. The hybrid concept, which will come with three rows of seats offering space for six passengers and their luggage, will be officially unveiled at next month's Geneva Motor Show.
At 4700mm long, 1910mm wide, 1680mm tall, the VisionS is longer, wider and lower than the Kia Sorento. Skoda aims to pitch the Kodiaq as an upmarket alternative to both the Sorento and its sister model, Hyundai’s Santa Fe.
The concept — based on the VW Group’s MQB platform — is powered by a hybrid combination which marries a 154bhp/184lb ft 1.4-litre petrol engine with a 54bhp/162lb ft electric motor mounted within the six-speed DSG gearbox housing.
The rear axle houses a second 114bhp electric motor resulting in a combined output of 222bhp. The VisionS therefore has a so-called 'smart' four-wheel drive system which requires no mechanical coupling.
Skoda claims the VisionS will hit 62mph from standstill in 7.4 sec with a top speed of 124mph, and emit 45g/km CO2. The company also says VisionS can travel up to 31 miles on electric power alone, with a combined range of 621 miles.
Related: Skoda previews VisionS concept
Drivers — as is the case with most electric and hybrid vehicles — can choose to operate the VisionS purely on electric power, or activate the petrol engine to aid progress and recharge the battery.
When it enters production, the range will also include a number of four-cylinder engines already offered in the new Superb, which means a 1.6-litre turbodiesel will be the entry-level engine. There will also be a diesel-electric hybrid version, and four-wheel drive will be optional on most models.
Inside the VisionS, Skoda says there will be a large digital displays designed for "digital networking" and infotainment, allowing users to "connect to the network in several ways from each seat in the vehicle."
Though Skoda has yet to confirm the use of the Kodiaq badge for the production model, its long been speculated that will be the name used. When it goes on-sale in Scottish dealerships early in 2017, the SUV is expected to cost from around £24,000, significantly undercutting the £28,795 Sorento and £31,845 Hyundai.
Related: Seat unveils Ateca SUV
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Jim McGill