Skoda-VW ‘India 2.0’ Future Cars Might Switch To MQB A0 37 Platform

Key Takeaways

• Kushaq, Slavia, Taigun, Virtus currently underpinned by MQB A0 27 architecture
• Rumors suggest the larger MQB A0 37 platform is to be localized
• Hybrid powertrain is a possibility 
• Seven seater SUV likely to be launched

What We Know So Far

Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited have nearly finalized their next phase of expansion and investments for our country. They have been discussing upcoming vehicles for our market with numerous potential collaborators and are considering new models which also include electric vehicles.

Sources say talks have already commenced with suppliers for localising the MQB A0 37. This platform has already spawned cars like the Skoda Octavia, Kodiaq, Karoq, Superb and VW Passat, Jetta, Tiguan to name a few.

Issues With MQB A0 27

The existing VW-Skoda cars and the upcoming ‘India 2.5’ sub-four-metre SUVs are built on the smaller second generation MQB A0 27 platform which was introduced globally in 2016. The MQB A0 27 was chosen for ‘India 2.0’ vehicles at the time as it was the latest evolution of the MQB architecture available, but it is limited in length and width as it was meant for the smaller range of global products: current VW Polo, T-Roc and Skoda Kamiq.

One of the main issues with the Skoda Kushaq and VW Taigun is that they look smaller and have a narrower back seat as compared to their rivals. The limited width of the rear seat was done deliberately to keep a wide gap between the seat base and the rear door for a safe margin during side impact crash tests.

Reasons For The Switch

This larger platform allows more flexibility with design and might introduce a seven seater SUV, as part of a growing segment. However, the MQB A0 37 has a first generation electrical architecture and will require a heavy investment to upgrade.

MQB A0 37 is also compatible with hybrid powertrains, giving the flexibility to opt for a cleaner and more efficient alternative in comparison to the current line-up available for sale in the country.

Future Of Present-Day Vehicles

As it stands now, four new vehicles are being explored on this architecture: the next generation Slavia, Virtus, Kushaq and Taigun. It was reported earlier this year that the next phase of investment for India has been approved and the company has been studying the viability of MQB A0 37 platform ever since. The discussions are in the final stages and the likely launch of these new vehicles will be between 2027 to 2030.

How Much Investment Are We Talking About?

Reportedly the VW Group is intrested in investing at least €1 billion (more than ₹9,000 crore), either alone or in a joint venture with a partner. The company is keen on participating in the government’s new EV policy which might possibly require a minimum investment of €400 million (roughly ₹3,650 crore).

Source: AutoCar India