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As we reported last month, the Volkswagen-owned Czech brand is currently looking into expanding into new markets such as North America - a market that makes up 20 percent of the global car market. At the time, a Skoda spokesperson said there was no timetable for a final decision. We also said that Skoda could have a tough time in the U.S. as they don't have many crossovers and SUVs.
Speaking of SUVs
Later this year, Skoda will be introducing their first seven-seat SUV known as the Kodiaq. This new model will be available with a range of gas and diesel engines, along with the choice of front-wheel or four-wheel drive. It also could be the perfect launch model for the U.S.
“If we do decide to compete in the US, we will have one chance to make a good first impression. We feel that if we were there now, the Kodiaq would be a home-run car,” said Skoda CEO Bernhard Maier to Autocar.
Maier was quick to point out that the U.S. isn't in the company's immediate future, though. Currently, the company is interested in such markets as Iran, Singapore, and South Korea. But Maier isn't fully discounting the idea of the U.S.
“America is the one that we don't currently compete in with the biggest potential.”
Autocar notes that Skoda is doing a feasibility study as to whether it makes sense for the brand to enter the U.S.
More Trademark Filings
Meanwhile, Skoda has been busy with filing more trademarks in the U.S. The Truth About Cars reports the company has filed a trademark application for vRS, their performance brand. At the moment, Skoda offers the Octavia vRS which can be fitted with either a 217 or 227 horsepower turbo-four engine.
It should be noted that while Skoda has trademarked vRS in the U.S., that doesn't mean Skoda will actually bring it here.
Pic Credit: Skoda
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