Skoda is ready to increase the number of its available models with the introduction of a new SUV, scheduled for this fall, during Paris Motor Show. Until then, during this year Geneva Motor Show, we had the chance of seeing the new Vision S concept, a true work of design and technology.
The prototype has a length of 4.70 metres, a 2.79-metre wheelbase, a width of 1.91 metres and a height of 1.68 metres. Based on Volkswagen Group’s modular transverse matrix (MQB), this is the first Skoda with six seats spread over three rows. This means the production version will seat seven people. Depending on the position of the seats, the boot has a capacity of up to 460 liters.
“The lines of the Skoda VisionS have evidently been inspired by the tradition of Bohemian crystal glass art and a touch of cubism: all sections are precise, sharp and clean-cut. On the strikingly contoured surfaces, the distinctive play of light and shade creates strong effects that are emphasised even further by the colour Iceland Green”, said Skoda Head of Design Jozef Kaban.
Inside the cabin we have a real demonstration of technology. The second screen in the Skoda show car is a novelty for the brand: the straight instrument panel is designed for the front seat passenger as well as for the driver. At its front, the two large, flat 16-inch displays stand out as striking geometrical objects. Vertically positioned air outlets surround the displays.
A third display is located in the centre console of the Skoda VisionS; the displays for the passengers in the second and third row of seats can be found in the head rests. A Phone Box is integrated into every door, where the passengers’ smartphones can be charged inductively; each individual can access their personal settings and the smartphone’s data and information, using their own display.
The Skoda VisionS provides a glimpse into the Czech manufacturer’s electric future: with a power output of 225 hp, the show car accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and has a top speed of almost 200 km/h. 1.9 litres of petrol is all the car needs to travel 100 km (45 g CO2/km). The Skoda VisionS can cover up to 50 km on electric mode alone, and travels up to 1,000 km with both systems combined.
The petrol engine is a 1.4 TSI with 156 PS and 250 Nm of torque. It works alongside an e-motor that provides 40 kW of continuous power and a peak torque of 220 Nm. It is integrated with the engine’s six-speed DSG which transfers the power to the front wheels. A second electric motor with up to 85 kW and 270 Nm of torque drives the rear axle. It works independently from the front-wheel drive, meaning the show car has clever four-wheel drive, which requires no mechanical coupling.
The 21-inch wheels feature 275/40 tyres. The five-spoke wheel design is aerodynamically inspired. Many components of the MacPherson strut front suspension have been manufactured from aluminium, the elaborately designed four-link rear axle absorbs longitudinal and transverse forces independently from one another.
The progressive steering has increased steering lock and yet is more responsive. The adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) controls the tasks of the shock absorbers, and allows the driver to select the desired driving mode (Standard, Comfort or Sport).
