So the Skoda Superb replacement is to be an SUV?

pburns

First I heard of it...

Skoda is working on a more sporting, Range Rover Evoque-inspired version of its upcoming seven-seat SUV. Development of the new SUV — which is based on the biggest version of VW Group’s new MQB platform — is racing ahead, but the sporty version is said to have “already come off the drawing board”. The big SUV will replace the Superb as the firm’s flagship model and is likely to bear the same name.

http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/frankfurt-motor-show/skoda-rapid-spaceback-revealed-alongside-new-model-plans

So it seems the next Superb will be a Sante Fe-type yoke and a sportier version will be developed off the same platform? Not that surprising I guess but sad to lose the first big exec from a mass market brand since the demise of the Scorpio, Omega etc. With the new Octavia now a little bigger maybe the models are too close for comfort?

A Skoda Evoque rival (without input from Mrs Beckham I presume) could be interesting...

MetzgerMeister

This SUV will replace the Superb as the flagship model but the Superb will continue to be produced.

A flagship model means the most important car in the Skoda product range. It was the superb but now it will be this SUV.

Anan1

MetzgerMeister wrote: »

This SUV will replace the Superb as the flagship model but the Superb will continue to be produced.

A flagship model means the most important car in the Skoda product range. It was the superb but now it will be this SUV.

Why did you edit out and is likely to bear the same name?

pburns

If that is the case would they not say it slots in above the Superb?

The big SUV will replace the Superb as the firm’s flagship model and is likely to bear the same name.

h3000

MetzgerMeister wrote: »

This SUV will replace the Superb as the flagship model but the Superb will continue to be produced.

A flagship model means the most important car in the Skoda product range. It was the superb but now it will be this SUV.

autocar wrote:

The big SUV will replace the Superb as the firm’s flagship model and is likely to bear the same name.

A Superb class car may exist within the Skoda range but according to the article the SUV may be called the Superb.

MetzgerMeister

I didn't read the article, I just based by comment on what the OP had quoted.

Anan1

MetzgerMeister wrote: »

I didn't read the article, I just based by comment on what the OP had quoted.

Read the first post again.

pburns

h3000 wrote: »

A Superb class car may exist within the Skoda range but according to the article the SUV may be called the Superb.

So they replace the Superb but switch the name to the SUV? I don't think there's any evidence of this and it sounds like a bad idea from a marketing/branding viewpoint.

Besides is there really room for a huge saloon AND a big SUV in a volume brand line-up? Are they competing with Volvo or Hyundai? Skoda has been a huge success for VAG over the last 15 years. It doesn't mean they can't start making bad decisions and **** things up though!

Jesus.

pburns wrote: »

Besides is there really room for a huge saloon!

I wouldn't go that far mate. The Superb is big, no doubt about it.

But huge? Na.

Tea 1000

pburns wrote: »

So they replace the Superb but switch the name to the SUV? I don't think there's any evidence of this and it sounds like a bad idea from a marketing/branding viewpoint.

Besides is there really room for a huge saloon AND a big SUV in a volume brand line-up? Are they competing with Volvo or Hyundai? Skoda has been a huge success for VAG over the last 15 years. It doesn't mean they can't start making bad decisions and **** things up though!

Not necessarily switch. It could be called the "Superb Snooty" or something Superb related.

h3000

pburns wrote: »

h3000 wrote: »

A Superb class car may exist within the Skoda range but according to the article the SUV may be called the Superb.

So they replace the Superb but switch the name to the SUV? I don't think there's any evidence of this and it sounds like a bad idea from a marketing/branding viewpoint.

I never suggested there was and I agree it would be a bit mad. It would not be the first time VAG have done something mad with their model names though.

Larbre34

VAG have history with naming leaps. The SEAT Toledo has been various different sizes

Not directly replacing the Superb makes some sense corporately, as it must have taken serious sales away from Passat and possibly even A4, given the interior space advantage. However the current Superb is an excellent all rounder and has a good following, those buyers may leave the VAG brands altogether in favour of a Mondeo or i40 etc. Good opening for SEAT to replace the Exeo with a purpose built stylish sporty saloon and estate, although the success of new Leon up against the Golf may make them think twice

Alun

In those photos it doesn't look at all "SUV" like, especially in terms of height ... more like an estate.

h3000

Alun wrote: »

In those photos it doesn't look at all "SUV" like, especially in terms of height ... more like an estate.

It is, it's the Rapid estate

They are no photos of the SUV.

Alun

h3000 wrote: »

It is, it's the Rapid estate

They are no photos of the SUV.

Ah, that would explain it ... a bit confusing though linking to an article showing a car that isn't actually the car being discussed