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Skoda confirmed it’s working on a new SUV for the Indian market that will hit the roads in the first half of 2025. The yet-unnamed model will measure under 4 m (157.5 inches) long, serving as the entry-level SUV for the region.

Skoda has been considering a smaller SUV offering since 2021, but this is the first official confirmation. The new model will be the third Skoda developed specifically for the Indian market following the Kushaq SUV and the Slavia sedan. The reason that the automaker chose this smaller and “strategically important” segment is the local legislation for sub-4m models that allows them to be offered at a more affordable price point, helping it win new customer groups.

The announcement was joined by a teaser sketch that focuses on the front end of the upcoming model. The slim LEDs are reminiscent of the European Skoda Kamiq, but the bumper has larger intakes following the lines of the grille. We can also see the sharp edges of the hood and roof rails which is a typical styling trait of many high-riding models.

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Skoda Teases New Entry-Level SUV For India, Will Debut In 2025

The SUV will ride on the MQB-A0-IN architecture, a low-cost version of the VW Group’s MQB platform developed by Skoda for emerging markets. This means it will share its underpinnings with the Skoda Slavia / Kushaq and the VW Virtus / Taigun, albeit with a smaller footprint. The aforementioned models are available with 1.0-liter and 1.5-liter gasoline powertrains, mated to six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG transmissions, exclusively offered in FWD form.

With a sub-4m length, the SUV will be the smallest offering in Skoda’s global portfolio, sitting below the EU-spec Fabia (4,108 mm/ 161.7 inches), the Indian-spec Kushaq (4,225 mm / 166 inches), and the EU-spec Kamiq (4,241mm / 167 inches). Rivals in India will include the Citroen New C3, Hyundai Venue, Nissan Magnite, Toyota Raize, and Tata Nexon.

The name of the new model will be decided later this year as part of the #NameYourSkoda campaign on social media. Skoda customers and fans from India will choose one of seven registered names including the Kymaq, Kariq, KwIQ, Kylaq, and Kyroq. As you can see, all of the options start with K and end with Q, in line with Skoda’s global SUV naming strategy.

Klaus Zellmer, CEO Škoda Auto, said: “India is crucial to the global growth of Škoda Auto, both because of its own market strength and as a development and manufacturing base for our expansion in new markets including ASEAN and the Middle East… The all-new compact SUV due in 2025 will add an important segment for customers. I’m confident the expanding Škoda portfolio will contribute to our India growth target of achieving a market share for the Volkswagen family of brands of around 5 percent by 2030.”