The Czech brand responsible for the Superb is finally entering the 3-row market with a large SUV. As promised, a preview study called VisionS was presented today at the Geneva Motor Show, although with less fuss than we've come to expect from the Volkswagen Group.
At first glance, the design is the same as in any other Skoda concept. However, that's actually not the case. The VisionS has a grille that's about four times longer than it is tall. The headlights are very slim and connect directly to the chrome of the grille, resulting in a wide stance. Both are brand new design features that will be seen on the upcoming 7-seat crossover SUV production model.
The lower grille is also one big, uninterrupted piece of plastic and metal, as the fog lights sit higher up on the bumper. The side features two pronounced character lines (similar to 2015 Fiesta) and a roof that gently slopes towards the trunk without curving.
Around the back, the VisionS borrows the 3D LED taillight design from the new Superb and triumphantly boasts two oval exhaust pipes. It's not bad at all. In fact, we'd say it's better than the SEAT Ateca SUV, though the comparison is not fair.
The power comes from a plug-in hybrid system, similar to what Volkswagen's GTE models have. A 1.4-liter TSI turbo engine is linked to two electric motors and a 12.4 kWh battery pack. Together, they offer a combined 225 PS and can accelerate the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds. One of the motors makes 55 PS and slots between the TSI engine and the six-speed DSG gearbox. The other makes 115 PS and goes at the back, giving this SUV its 4x4 capabilities.
So far, Skoda has remained silent about the production potential of the VisionS. We know they plan to offer a 7-seat crossover (the concept is a 6-seater) next year. Both "Kodiak" and "Snowman" have been rumored to be the name of the vehicle. However, plug-in hybrid engines have been ruled out by the Skoda brand due to their cost. Could that change due to emission regulations coming into effect towards the end of the decade?
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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