Could break cover in 2017, if approved for production.
With a sudden interest in hatchback-based crossovers rising, especially in India, manufacturers are slowly joining the bandwagon to secure a slice of the market. According to Auto Express, Skoda will soon add a compact crossover to its range, which could be based on the latest Fabia hatchback.
With Skoda bosses setting a target of 1.5 million units global sales, it comes as no surprise that they're investigating every segment for their product expansion plan. To help achieve that figure, Skoda will be betting on a strong SUV lineup in the future, which includes the next generation Yeti in 2017, a flagship 7-seater SUV for 2016, and the Fabia-based crossover by the end of 2016.
The report suggests that the unnamed crossover will likely be based on VAG's MQB platform, rather than the NSF (New Small Family) platform in the VW Taigun. Like with any hatchback-based crossover, it could feature a raised ride height, slightly larger dimensions and tough body cladding. Skoda offered a similar Fabia 'Scout' in the last generation, but the variant has more distinguishing it this time from what the rendering implies.
Power could be sourced from the Euro-spec Fabia's powerful engines: 1.2 TSI, 1.4 TDI, or a larger 1.6 TDI. Transmission options could likely be a choice between a 6-speed manual or a DSG gearbox. To keep costs as low as possible, Skoda will, reportedly, not equip the crossover with an AWD system.
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Since the Skoda Fabia is plotting a return to the Indian market, we could see the Czech brand also warming up to the idea of introducing the crossover version as well, given the sudden growth of the segment in the country.
[Source: Auto Express]
