Skoda bets big on 2022, six launches in the pipeline

Skoda Auto India has big plans for 2022 as the company looks to build on the growth it witnessed in 2021. Plans include new models, updates to existing ones including new variants and enhanced focus on customer satisfaction.

In 2021, Skoda registered sales of 23,858 units marking a 130 per cent growth over its tally of 10,387 in 2020. For 2022, the company intends to triple its 2021 tally on its way to the mid-term target of 1,00,000 units set for 2025. Helping achieve this will obviously be new model launches with six planned for this year.

2022 Skoda Kodiaq India launch will take place on January 10.

First up, India will get the facelifted 2022 Skoda Kodiaq SUV in January which gets updated interiors and exteriors along with a new 2.0-litre petrol motor replacing the older version’s 2.0-litre diesel mill. In March, the Skoda Slavia that made its debut in December 2021 will be launched. Skoda is betting big on the sedan as it will play a pivotal role in helping the company realise its target of tripling sales.

Aside from new products, the company has confirmed that existing ones will get new variants and trims as well including the Skoda Kushaq, Octavia and Superb. While there is no confirmation from Skoda yet, the Enyaq iV all-electric crossover could also be on the cards for the Indian market brought in via the CBU route. The Skoda Karoq facelift revealed for global markets might make its way to India as well.

Zac Hollis, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India said, "I am very happy to share that 2021 has been a year of growth for Skoda Auto India. The growth is due to the team’s commitment and approach towards building a strong customer centric brand. Despite challenges of the pandemic and a global chip shortage, Skoda Auto India stuck to its outlook and recorded a 130 per cent growth in 2021."

Skoda Auto India intends to focus on its certified pre-owned and corporate sales initiatives as well in 2022 to boost sales along with a focus on increased penetration in rural markets. According to the company “The brand is seeing a surge in the contribution from rural markets. From around 5% in 2020, the share of sales from rural markets grew to around 10% in 2021. With the rapid network expansion across the country, there will be further contribution from the rural markets in 2022.”

Skoda has also promised to continue focussing on after sales and service promising to increase trained skill force and improving service quality, introducing new after sales programs (loyalty offerings) and building customer confidence through greater transparency.