Skoda A-Plus SUV to launch in 2017 - Australia

16/07/2015 - 17:53 | ,   | Aravind Jayachandran

Will be built on the 2016 VW Tiguan's platform.

Skoda will soon add to its global range, a flagship SUV, which will sit above the Skoda Yeti. Codenamed as the 'A-Plus', it will be based on VAG's MQB platform that also underpins the upcoming VW Tiguan, and is expected to be unveiled by the end of this year, reportedly.

Skoda Snowman three-row 7 seat SUV rendering
The exterior of the Skoda A-Plus will draw design cues from Skoda's latest models, such as the new Superb.

Speaking to Go Auto, Skoda Australia director, Michael Irmer, said that the A-Plus is "100 per cent appealing" and that the local subsidiary is working hard to finalise the model for the Australian market. He also added that the SUV would almost certainly arrive in Australia in 2017, following the launch of the third-gen Superb next year.

Skoda is yet to choose a name for the SUV, which contradicts reports that it will be called the 'Skoda Snowman'. The SUV will offer a 7-seater option as well, which could have an extended wheelbase like the upcoming VW Tiguan 7-seater version.

The SUV is expected to source its engine lineup from the next generation VW Tiguan, which could include a fuel efficient range of TSI and TDI engines such as a 1.0-liter 3 cylinder TSI and a revised 2.0 TDI engine. Higher trims will be equipped with an AWD system as standard.

2016 Volkswagen Tiguan front three quarter could be based on the MQB platform
The Skoda A-Plus will be based on the MQB platform that also underpins the upcoming VW Tiguan.

Also Read: IAB reader snaps the 2016 Skoda Superb in Pune

For the Indian market, Skoda has indicated that it will cater to the premium segments with the likes of the Octavia and Superb. Hence, the brand could consider introducing the SUV as a rival to the Toyota Fortuner as well as the SUV it's based on, the Volkswagen Tiguan, due for its launch next year.

2016 Skoda Superb - Image Gallery (Unrelated)

[Source/Image Source: Go Auto/Autobild]

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