Vision of next-gen Skodas 02 | 03 | 2011

THIS MAY be a concept, but the Vision D gives a clear hint at the styling cues which will make their production appearance in the next generation Octavia.

It's therefore no coincidence the Vision D is Octavia-sized and Skoda sees the new look as an evolution rather than a revolution of the company's current design language.

Aspects of the concept — including the widened lower air intake and an enlarged gloss-finished front grille — have been borrowed from parent company Volkswagen. But the Vision D also gets slimmer headlights plus a more distinctive design for the C-pillars and an integrated taligate.

Inside, the cabin benefits from the concept's longer wheelbase which creates more interior space, and the feel of space is further enhanced by the clear glass on the centre console and a reduction in the amount of switchgear.

The futuristic look is finished off by the stylish dials, seats and steering wheel while most of the interior controls appear to be carried out by a small touchpad facing the driver and positioned on the edge of the centre console.

The styling cues will begin appearing on the next generation of Skodas which are due next year. At the same time, Skoda will also introduce its new, revised corporate badge which has been esigned to be much larger and more visible. It now features brighter colouring and chrome rim to give it more of a modern flair.

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Jim McGill