Skoda has unveiled a dramatic looking concept that previews a new five-door lifeback model currently undergoing production development. The production model is slated to join its line-up in 2016. And with this, Skoda has clearly signaled its intent to reach beyond its existing range of practical mainstream offerings.
Christened the VisionC, the new concept is set to get its first public airing at Geneva motor show starting next week, paving the way for the introduction of the new liftback, which has been conceived to fill the gap between the Octavia and Superb in Skoda’s existing range. The move is aimed at providing the Czech car maker, which produced 920,800 cars in 2013, greater sales reach and exposure to new customers.
The new Skoda, sister car to a proposed second four-door coupe style offering from parent company Volkswagen, is based on the same hot-formed high-strength steel MQB (Modularen Querbau or modular transverse architecture) platform as the Octavia.
The latest one, in a long line of Skoda concepts, is still undergoing the final stages of design development at the company’s design centre at Mladá Boleslav in the Czech Republic. While the basic silhouette and five door liftback layout is expected to be brought over into production with little or no change, the detailing and rear end will be further refined.
Many of the VisionC’s design cues, including its bold chromed grille, taut surfacing treatment, precisely structured flanks and triangular theme to its lamps, will be reflected on other future Skoda models also.
While official dimensions are yet to be revealed, Skoda suggests the VisionC runs to around 4,700mm in length and 1,820mm in width, allowing it to offer what they describe as “more than sufficient space for four adults and their luggage”.
Among the perceived rivals for the new car is the Mercedes-Benz CLA. It is intended to provide Skoda with a timely image boost following the recent expansion of its line-up with more run-of-the-mill models. “We think it is time for a Skoda model that combines traditional practical qualities with a bold new design direction,” says Skoda boss, Winfried Vahland.
The VisionC is powered by the same engine used in the recently introduced Volkswagen Golf TGI and Audi A3 G-Tron. The 108bhp, 1.4-litre four-cylinder turbocharged direct injection engine can run on either petrol or natural gas.
Word is, the production version of the new Skoda will eventually offer a wide range of transversely mounted four cylinder petrol and diesel engines ranging in capacity from 1.4 to 2.0-litres. Alongside a standard front-wheel drive, it will also offer four-wheel drive in combination with a range of more powerful engines, according to company officials.
Skoda also hints the VisionC will provide the basis for a new 280bhp, 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol powered four-wheel drive performance flagship that will form the basis of a revised line of Skoda vRS models.
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