Your Unquenchable Demand for SUVs is Undermining Skoda’s Aspirations for Exciting Sports Cars, Yet There’s Still Hope | Carscoops

      Skoda's CEO has indicated that the brand may consider entering more thrilling segments once its mainstream models achieve their sales goals.

      The company is presently concentrating on mainstream markets, particularly in crossover production.

      This approach may evolve over the next decade if sales objectives are met successfully.

      Skoda is known for showcasing student-designed concepts freely but tends to play it safe with its production models. The current range is heavily dominated by crossovers and SUVs, supplemented by a few hatchbacks, sedans, and estates. CEO Klaus Zellmer has acknowledged that while the mainstream market remains the brand's priority, there is still room for a slightly more daring model in the future.

      Despite the ongoing transition to electric vehicles, Skoda has maintained its performance-focused RS badge, although its current sportiest offering is a coupe-style SUV. However, the 2022 Vision GT concept, which has recently appeared in the Gran Turismo game set for 2024, provided a preview of a potentially more expressive and performance-oriented direction for Skoda.

      Zellmer commented on the Vision GT in an interview with Car Magazine, referencing the classic 1957 1100 OHC: “These are small experiments – they help to invigorate the brand a bit, but, unfortunately, the business rationale is very limited.” This reflects the challenge of moving from exciting concept ideas to viable production.

      He further explained why Skoda hasn't progressed with a more thrilling vehicle, acknowledging that the brand is currently focused on profitable, mainstream models with powertrains for every consumer, including electric, hybrid, and traditional combustion engines, while putting niche models on hold for now.

      “Unfortunately, we currently do not have the financial luxury or the capacity for that,” he said. “I wish we could. I would love to see a car that resonates emotionally, like a convertible or something similar – but at the moment, our complete focus is on a portfolio that caters to a broad market. Those would be niche offerings.”

      Mainstream models take precedence over passion projects for now.

      Skoda has emerged as one of the VW Group's success stories, enhancing its brand image and increasing sales over the last twenty years. In 2024, the automaker achieved record-breaking results, generating €28 billion ($32.8 billion) in revenue and selling 926,600 vehicles. Given these successes, many are curious when Skoda might approve a model driven more by passion than by sales volume.

      Zellmer does not dismiss the idea but emphasizes that it will not happen immediately. In the short term, the focus remains on strengthening the brand's electric vehicle lineup. Nonetheless, he is hopeful that they will expand their offerings in the next decade.

      “Once we have streamlined our portfolio to a set number of cars, where each body style sells over 100,000 units annually – then we can start considering additional concepts,” he stated. “We are already selling more than 200,000 Octavias each year.”

      Could a niche electric vehicle become a reality?

      Skoda’s CEO also suggested that creating a niche model might not be as resource-heavy as it appears. With an appropriate platform already established, the brand could simply design a new body on an existing performance electric vehicle setup. Given the specifications of the Enyaq RS, which produces 335 hp (250 kW / 340 PS), an electric sports car built on that foundation would certainly have ample power.

      However, Zellmer’s thoughts aren't solely focused on sports cars. He also mentioned the Yeti, the boxy crossover that Skoda manufactured from 2009 to 2017, which retains a dedicated fan base. “I would love to see a Yeti again, as I think that car has a unique character, a great name, and a loyal following. It's impressive how many people still discuss it with me.”