Skoda Snowman :: preview of new seven-seat SUV

Our computer-generated image is a "pretty accurate" of the upcoming production model, according to our well-informed graphic artist.

The Skoda Snowman – as the big brother to the compact Yeti has been unofficially christened – looks to share much with the Volkswagen CrossBlue concept, which is also set to make the transition from show car to showrooms in 2016 to give both brands a seven-seater SUV option.

Prominent, squared-off wheel arches and expansive side panels give the new, full-size SUV a muscular, substantial appearance.

The front-end wears a conservative interpretation of Skoda’s current design language, incorporating rectangular headlights and the brand’s signature grille with vertical black blades.

A radar for the car’s adaptive cruise control and other advanced safety systems will sit in the centre of the lower air intake.

The Skoda Snowman is set to be built at the Czech brand’s plant in Kvasiny alongside the Yeti, Roomster and Superb. It will be based on the Volkswagen Group’s versatile MQB architecture. Front- and all-wheel drive layouts will be available along with a range of turbocharged four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines familiar from other models in the VW Group family.

The SUV is said to be capable off-road too, and will reportedly borrow components and technologies from the more expensive Volkswagen Touareg.

Rendering by Milos Dvorak.