This stylish mid-size SUV is the Skoda Vision IN, a concept that closely previews an upcoming production model that will be developed for and sold exclusively in the Indian market.
It is the first model that will use the localised MQB A0 IN platform, a variant of the modular system that underpins several European models like the Skoda Scala and Kamiq. Riding on 19-inch wheels, the Vision IN has a rugged look and looks sharp with its bright orange paintwork. The exterior features upmarket details such as door handles that sit flush with the bodywork, and a brushed aluminium finish on the roof rails and the leading edges of the bumpers. Nestled between the roof rails is a panoramic glass roof that adds to the sense of space inside.
In keeping with Skoda's design language, the Vision IN is equipped with LED lighting that carries a crystalline design. The rear features a distinctive light bar that spans the lower section of the boot and is separate to the L-shaped lights.
In a bid to be more environmentally conscious, the interior uses more sustainable materials including rhubarb leather, an innovative organic leather, along with oak leather and Pinatex, a leather substitute that is made from waste pineapple leaves. The decor pays homage to the traditional Indian textile printing technique and carries classic motifs that are printed onto fabric using handmade East-Indian-rosewood stamps.
It is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with a 150hp and 250Nm output. Power is sent to the front wheel via a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission that employs shift-by-wire technology similar to that seen in the latest Volkswagen Golf. That gives it brisk performance including a top speed of 195km/h and a 0-100km/h time of 8.7 seconds.
Vision IN gets a spacious interior
The minimalist design and layout of the cabin give a sense of spaciousness to the Vision IN. By moving to the latest shift-by-wire setup for the DSG transmission, it frees up space in the centre console as only a smaller stubby drive selector is required. The three-spoke steering wheel is detailed and includes rotary controllers for certain operations. In front of the driver is a digital dashboard that is almost entirely free of buttons.
A 12.3-inch free-standing touchscreen infotainment system is set back just far enough to be able to rest your hand on the chin of the dashboard as you use it. A section below this is where the transmission rocker switch and electronic parking brake are located along with a large capacitive surface that cleverly has the controls for air conditioning and heated seats. Two seats in the rear are divided by a console that can extend forward to reveal a detailed inner wood section that incorporates two cupholders. The boot is detailed with two matching orange straps to tie down luggage.
The role that Skoda will play in India
Under the project name INDIA 2.0, Skoda has been tasked with leading the Volkswagen Group's operation in India since June 2018. That saw the consolidation of the three Volkswagen Group passenger car brands into a single entity named Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL) in October 2019.
Skoda CEO Bernhard Maier said: "India is one of the most exciting and most promising growth markets for Volkswagen Group. A year and a half ago, we set the course to help write this story of growth with our INDIA 2.0 project. Together with the Volkswagen brand, we are seeking a combined market share of five per cent by 2025, depending on market and segment development. For Škoda, India would thus become one of the five largest markets in the world. The first models being developed as part of the INDIA 2.0 project are on the home stretch, and - by unveiling the Skoda Vision IN - we are giving a concrete preview of the first production car."