Skoda SUV confirmed for 2017
Czech brand locks-in Tiguan-based soft roader for Oz
Skoda is set to finally add a conventional SUV to its local lineup in 2017.
The Czech brand, which only offers its Octavia wagon-based Scout as an SUV alternative at the moment, has confirmed it will join the soft-roader set with a twin-pronged attack on the medium segment in a move that it beleives will unlock further sales potential in Australia.
Speaking to Drive at the launch of the second-generation Fabia in Sydney this week, Skoda Australia director Michael Irmer admitted the company is "working on the extension of its SUV range at the moment" and that its upcoming SUV is "clearly earmarked for Australia."
"The SUV will be a genuine SUV that will fit well into the segment and open Skoda to new buyers," added Irmer.
It is understood the yet-to-be-named vehicle – but rumoured to be called Snowman – will sit above its current Yeti small car and will share its underpinnings and engine line-up with the second-generation Volkswagen Tiguan that is expected to be revealed at the Frankfurt motor show in September and due in local showrooms by mid next year.
The Skoda version isn't due to be revealed until 2016 and has been pencilled to go on-sale in Australia in 2017.
Like the Tiguan, Irmer confirmed the Skoda SUV will be offered in both regular five-seat and an extended wheelbase seven-seat configuration but will feature a unique body design.
Irmer also indicated a new-generation Yeti is in the development pipeline and is confirmed for Australia but also hinted the company has further SUV options on the drawing board.
"Two are safe, but I know they are working on other projects as well," he said.