Skoda, a Czech automaker under the Volkswagen Group, released teaser images of its upcoming flagship electric SUV. This new model is expected to compete directly with the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV9.
The SUV, likely named Space, will become Skoda’s most expensive model. It will be the first production vehicle to adopt the brand’s next-generation Modern Solid design language.
Skoda targets a 2026 launch for the Space. The model will play a key role in Skoda’s long-term growth strategy. The vehicle is based on the Vision 7S concept car, which was revealed in 2022.
Design and Dimensions
Skoda has not revealed the full silhouette or grille design. The teaser images show only parts of the front, rear, and rear-side profile. These include the hood, trunk hatch, D-pillar, and T-shaped LED headlights and taillights. The design suggests an expanded version of Skoda’s existing SUV style.
The Space will be similar in size to the Kodiaq, Skoda’s top-tier internal combustion engine SUV. It is expected to be approximately 4,900 mm (193 inches) long.
It’s 250 mm (9.8 inches) longer than the Enyaq. The Space will likely have a seven-seat configuration and provide more interior room.
Performance and Technology
Skoda will build the Space on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB+ electric vehicle (EV) platform. The model will offer both rear-wheel drive with a single motor and all-wheel drive with dual motors. Performance is expected to be similar to that of the Volkswagen ID.7. The Space is projected to feature an 86 kWh battery and a 210 kW (282 horsepower) rear motor, offering up to 709 km (440 miles) of driving range.
The interior will feature a 14.6-inch touchscreen, an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, an augmented reality head-up display, and a two-spoke steering wheel.
Skoda is also expected to include a child seat integrated into the second-row center console to appeal to families.
Market Strategy and Brand Aspirations
The Space will compete with the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV9, Tesla Model Y, Volvo EX90, Peugeot e-5008, and Mercedes-Benz EQB. Skoda plans to price the Space competitively while offering upscale features and practical performance.
The brand aims to attract family-oriented customers with a spacious cabin and long-range driving capabilities.
Last year, Skoda recorded €2.1 billion in operating profit and sold 936,600 vehicles worldwide, achieving 6.9% growth compared to the previous year. With the Space launch, Skoda now aims to surpass 1 million global vehicle sales annually for the first time in its history.
