This few digital sketches gives the world their first preview of an upcoming new model from Czech automaker Skoda, due to be unveiled (where else?) at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show next month. Despite being called the Vision X and no doubt to be labelled a concept, there’s little doubt that it’ll be in showrooms before long.
Visually, even the sketch’s exaggerated proportions fail to detract from the similarities to the larger Karoq and Kodiaq. However, it would seem that Skoda wishes to place emphasis elsewhere since the majority of the differences lie with its interior and hybrid powertrain.
There’s no denying that, should Skoda put it into production soon, there will be some overlap with the Karoq, with similar dimensions, handling characteristics, and levels of practicality. Like that model, this Vision X is to sit on the same Volkswagen MQB platform (MQB A0, specifically) that underpins most other smaller vehicles within the VW Group umbrella.
Perhaps this is to be a more posh Karoq for the rest of the world as they’re pegging this as being both sportier and catered to the so-called ‘active lifestyle’ crowed. To hammer in this association, the Vision X has some decidedly real world features such as a panoramic glass roof, two-tone exterior, and 20-inch alloys. Its inclusion in a concept car isn’t surprising so much as Skoda’s decision to detail it in the press material.
Inside, there’s a more modern dashboard defined by a single contoured surface. Out of this sprouts a large and wide freestanding infotainment display, and a continuous climate control vent similar in concept to the ones seen on the newest generation of Audis.
In keeping with this minimal theme, switchgear along the centre stack reduced to just a couple of knobs and what seems to be a lone start button. The flat-bottomed steering wheel and sculpted seats hints at some GTI-like performance and the all-digital instrument cluster further feeds the Audi homage narrative.
Possible candidates for the production model’s powertrain sources should closely mirror that of the Karoq and Volkswagen T-Roc, meaning a amalgam of either 1.0-litre or 1.5-litre TSI turbocharged petrol units will likely serve as the primary means of thrust, at least until VW’s smaller hybrid unit is more convincingly proliferated.
For more on Skoda cars, check out our Showroom.
