What's the news?
Skoda is drip-feeding us a few more details about the upcoming Kodiaq seven-seat SUV, which will make itd public debut at the Paris Motor Show in September. We've already seen the C-SUV concept car (which is said to be pretty close to the final production version) and now Skoda's head of design, Jozef Kabaň, has been talking us through some design sketches of the car that have been released.
"As the design sketch already shows, all lines are clear, precise and sharp; the highly recessed shoulder line highlights the large Skoda SUV's robust character. Flat, raked headlights are positioned on both sides of the wide Skoda grille. Their crystalline structure pays homage to Czech crystal glass art, which is steeped in tradition" said Kabaň.
"The extensively sculptured rear section also accentuates the Skoda Kodiaq's sporty, robust SUV character. The LED rear lights are designed in the brand's typical C-shape, continuing the Skoda SUV design lines in great detail. The side view is equally as strong. The long wheelbase and short overhangs point to the spacious interior. The SUV is available with two extra seats in the third row as an optional extra.
"The Skoda Kodiaq is a pioneer for our brand in two respects. We are entering a new segment with our first large SUV above the Yeti. And at the same time, the Kodiaq is the first model with the new Skoda SUV design language. It is powerful and emotive, but also timeless.
"Strong vertical elements, like the four large air vents, are characteristic of the interior. The large display splits the instrument panel into two equal sections for the driver and passenger. The front of the instrument panel is three-dimensional and divided into two areas. The door trims carry on this design approach. Finely cut, crystalline features add a special touch. We are carrying the exterior's wide, clear lines forward into the interior. And the emphasis here is on the harmony between form and functionality, on calm and clarity. For me, a car has to function perfectly and also radiate aesthetics. An interior should spark feelings of trust and well-being. From this philosophy, we have created an atmosphere that is also elegant, comfortable and functional at the same time."
Anything else?
It's expected that the Kodiaq will spawn the next-generation five-seat Skoda Yeti SUV, so watch out for that in 2017.