2018 Skoda Yeti/Karoq spied with unique body panels
The replacement for the Skoda Yeti has been spied again, but this time it’s sporting unique body work.
The last set of spy photos we published, way back in the middle of 2016, showed the Yeti replacement looking virtually identical to its Volkswagen Tiguan sibling, except for a new grille and, potentially, new bonnet.
This latest prototype reveals how the two cars will share no exterior body panels, except maybe the roof.
Up front, the next-generation SUV features a completely unique treatment, which is essentially scaled down version of the Kodiaq’s face, complete with a split headlight arrangement.
Around the side, we can see the new Skoda crossover has its own set of door and fender panels, with the brand’s now characterisitic shoulder line crease positioned between the door handles and window frames. Unlike the Tiguan, the Skoda crossover doesn’t feature flag pole-style wing mirrors.
At the rear, the small SUV seems to feature styling that’s once again cribbed from the larger Kodiaq. It should be noted the rear side window is actually a black plastic panel and there are false white panels around the tail-lights, so there might be some surprises in store.
Despite featuring a unique body, Skoda’s new small crossover will share its mechanical package with the Tiguan, and will likely share its key dimensions with the short-wheelbase Volkswagen.
Motivation should come from a selection of familiar Volkswagen Group turbocharged four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. Buyers will be able to chose between manual and dual-clutch transmissions, as well as front- and all-wheel drive.
It’s not known, at this stage, whether the new SUV will continue the Yeti name. Rumours indicate the Yeti badge could be ditched in favour of the new nameplate, Karoq.
A leaked presentation slide laying out the brand’s crossover plans includes three new models: a Kodiaq coupe, and cars bearing the Model K and Model Q codenames.
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