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Skoda to launch three-row, seven-seat SUV in new model offensive

Skoda will launch a large SUV by the end of 2016 as part of a blitz of new models.


Internal sources have told both Autocar and Auto Express that Skoda is a developing a new large SUV based on the Volkswagen group's MQB architecture.

The as-yet-unnamed SUV (which is rumoured to be known as the Skoda Snowman) will be available in both two-row five-seat and three-row seven-seat configurations. In seven-seat models, the third row can be folded away into the boot floor when not in use.

Depending on the model, the new Skoda SUV can be had with either front- or all-wheel drive. Propulsion will come from the familiar cast of turbocharged Volkswagen four-cylinder diesel and petrol motors, with entry-level models powered by a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine.

The new car is said to include styling elements from the Yeti, as well as the brand's new edgier design language. In Europe, the new car will be aimed squarely at the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento.

Aside from its people and cargo carrying duties, the new SUV is said to be capable off-road too. As such, all-wheel drive variants are likely to borrow components and technologies from the much more Volkswagen Touareg.

Skoda has been set a target of selling 1.5 million cars annually by 2018, which is quite a step up from its current sales rate. The brand managed to shift around 522,500 vehicles in the first half of 2014 — already a record for the company.

In order to get there, the next generation Skoda Fabia hatch will debut at the 2014 Paris motor show at the beginning of October. This will be joined a few months later by a wagon variant.

Next year will also see the launch of a new generation Superb, which is said to look like the VisionC concept car (above). The new Superb is said to be around the same size as the current car and will be spearheaded by a 2.0-litre turbo petrol model with around 209kW of power.

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