Geneva show: Skoda reveals Vision X concept SUV

SKODA has revealed its Vision X compact SUV concept that uses a new hybrid petrol, natural gas and electric drivetrain, and previews a possible third Skoda crossover that could sit alongside the Kodiaq and upcoming Karoq.

While the Vision X is still yet to be confirmed for production, Skoda Australia general manager of corporate communications Paul Pottinger said Volkswagen Group Australia is keen to get its hands on as many new SUVs as possible.

Revealed overnight at the Geneva motor show, the Vision X uses a complex hybrid system that teams a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine running on both petrol and compressed natural gas (CNG) with an electric motor on the rear axle, for a combined power and torque output of 96kW/200Nm.

Using the combined technologies has resulted in a miserly carbon emissions figure of 89 grams of CO2 per km, as well as ensuring a 650km driving range and a zero to 100km/h time of 9.3 seconds.

The petrol/CNG engine drives the front wheels, while a belt-driven starter generator and the electric motor provide motivation for the rear wheels, the latter of which is mated to a pair of 48V lithium-ion batteries.

Electric power is only used to generate extra boost for accelerating or for additional traction in slippery conditions, while the driveline set-up is unique for Skoda, as the Vision X is the only all-wheel-drive model in its line-up to not require a propshaft.

Visually, the Vision X evokes the look of its SUV stablemates while also bearing a resemblance to the Volkswagen T-Roc compact SUV, revealed at last year’s Frankfurt motor show and slated to land in Australia mid-year, before being pushed back as late as 2020 due to global supply demands.

Measuring 4255mm long, 1537mm tall and 1807mm wide, the Vision X is 32mm longer and 14mm wider than the existing Yeti small SUV, while sitting 154mm lower to the ground. At 2645mm, its wheelbase is also 67mm longer than the Yeti.

A production version would likely be built on VW Group’s MQB modular architecture, shared by the Karoq and Volkswagen Tiguan.

The design language is typically Skoda with its double-slat radiator grille, tornado line along the vehicle’s flanks and slimline LED headlights made from hand-cut lead crystal.

Large 20-inch alloy wheels give the Vision X a muscular stance, while at the rear a silver rear bumper, lettered ‘Skoda’ badge and split LED tail-lights add visual flair.

The Vision X features a number of connected car features, including the ability to direct the driver to available parking spaces, offering car sharing opportunities and making it available for rental when it is not required.

It also features a digital instrument cluster and new infotainment system, projected onto a screen that sits above the centre console.

The interior of the concept also features anchoring systems in the 380-litre boot for two electric skateboard, as well as helmets and a camera drone to film skating footage.