Skoda Head of Design Jozef Kabaň on the upcoming Kodiaq SUV

Production Cars 27 Jun 2016
Skoda Head of Design Jozef Kabaň on the upcoming Kodiaq SUV

Škoda has published the first design sketches of its first SUV ever, the Kodiaq. We report an official interview with Head of Design Jozef Kabaň.


The new Kodiaq SUV will be characterized by generous dimensions which allow a seven passengers capacity. The design is characterized by the clear, precise and sharp lines that are at the core of the brand’s aesthetic DNA.

Skoda Kodiaq Design Sketch Render

Flat, raked headlights are positioned on both sides of the wide grille. Their crystalline structure pays homage to Czech crystal glass art.

The surface treatment aims at expressing a sense of robustness while maintaining a sculptural quality for the surfaces – which is for example visible in the highly recessed shoulder line.

Skoda Kodiaq Design Sketch Render

The sculptured rear section features LED rear lights with the typical C-shape

In particular, the look of the Kodiaq is based on the VisionS Concept, first introduced at the past Geneva Show.

Skoda VisionS Concept Design Sketch Render

The VisionS Concept

The new Kodiaq will be based on VW’s MQB modular platform, and will be equipped with a range of TDI and TSI engines

Below we report the official interview with Head of Design Jozef Kabaň., along with a selection of images of the VisionS Concept.

Interview with Jozef Kabaň, Škoda’s Head of Design

Škoda is becoming much more emotive. Mr Kabaň, what does the design of the Škoda Kodiaq mean for the brand?

Kabaň:  The Škoda Kodiaq is a pioneer for our brand in two respects. We are entering a new segment with our first large SUV above the YETI. And at the same time, the Kodiaq is the first model with the new Škoda SUV design language. It is powerful and emotive, but also timeless.

Skoda VisionS Concept

What is special about the design language of your large SUV?

Kabaň:  The Škoda Kodiaq is extremely versatile. It is exceptionally spacious and with compact external dimensions, it delivers the best overall package in its class. It is also robust, suits all types of terrain and offers the best flexibility and functionality.

Skoda VisionS Concept

We wanted to visualize this in the exterior design as well as the interior. Form and functionality are therefore in harmony in the Škoda Kodiaq. The crystalline and striking appearance also underlines the strength and character of the Škoda Kodiaq.

How does one combine design and functionality?

Kabaň: We aspire to combine the highest degree of aesthetics with maximum functionality in such a way that one no longer speaks of different criteria. We are searching for beauty in simplicity, without disregarding functionality or ergonomics. A good design makes functionality attractive. This balance of functionality and aesthetics makes our Škoda Kodiaq special.

What role does Czech crystal glass art play in this?

Kabaň: Every detail of our models tells a story, that is the emotive power of the brand. We were inspired by traditional Czech crystal glass art for the crystalline elements of the Škoda Kodiaq. The lines are clear, precise and sharply drawn. The distinctive interplay of light and shade on the strongly contoured surfaces is distinctive. The crystalline structure is also present in the details, such as the headlights or decorative trims.

You can see the creativity and great attention to detail that also went into designing the interior. What do you consider the most interesting design feature of the Škoda Kodiaq’s interior?

Skoda VisionS Concept Interior

Kabaň: We are carrying the exterior’s wide, clear lines forward into the interior. And the emphasis here is on the harmony between form and functionality, on calm and clarity. For me, a car has to function perfectly and also radiate aesthetics.

Skoda VisionS Concept Interior Design Sketch Render

An interior should spark feelings of trust and well-being. From this philosophy, we have created an atmosphere that is also elegant, comfortable and functional at the same time.

Skoda VisionS Concept Interior Design Sketch Render

(Source: Škoda)

 

Image Gallery

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Skoda Head of Design Jozef Kabaň on the upcoming Kodiaq SUV - Image 13
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Skoda Head of Design Jozef Kabaň on the upcoming Kodiaq SUV - Image 14
Skoda Head of Design Jozef Kabaň on the upcoming Kodiaq SUV - Image 4

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