Skoda’s VisionS SUV Concept Mixes Rationality And Aesthetics

Going from strength to strength, Skoda is boldly going, for the first time, in the large SUV market.

Although we’ve seen it before, the VisionS Concept was officially launched at the Volkswagen Group Night a few hours before Geneva opens its doors for the Press.

The concept is displaying the brand’s new styling language that is purportedly influenced by “cubism and the tradition of Bohemian crystal glass art”.

Measuring 4.70 m long, 1.91 m wide, 1.68 m tall and with a 2.79 m wheelbase, the VisionS offers space for six passengers and previews the production model that will launch next fall, reportedly named the Kodiak.

“We already have a successful model in the compact SUV segment with the Yeti; now we are using our expertise in 4×4 technology to develop the new SUV model”, said Skoda CEO Berhard Maier.

“In terms of design, package and functionality, the VisionS bears some similarity”, he added. “This study also demonstrates our most important future technologies, such as the plug-in hybrid drive system; a similar drive system is also being tested for production cars.”

The plug-in hybrid powertrain comprises a 156 PS and 250 Nm 1.4-liter TSI petrol engine with an electric motor that’s integrated into the six-speed dual clutch DSG gearbox and adds 55 PS and 220 Nm.

The two power the front wheels, while a second electric motor with 116 PS and 270 Nm at the rear engages when required and makes for a “smart” all-wheel drive system that does away with mechanical coupling.

Total power output is 225 PS, making for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint in 7.4 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h. At the same time, fuel consumption is a meagre 1.9 lt/100 km and CO2 emissions at 45 g/km. Maximum range is 50 km on electric mode alone and 1,000 km in total.