New Skoda MPVs carry fight to VW

Skoda is about to go head-to-head with parent company VW. The Czech brand will expand its range to include a pair of practical new models.

First up is the Mini-Van, which arrives in 2010. It shares its platform with VW’s forthcoming up! city car, but true to Skoda form, will stand out from class rivals with its distinctive design.

There’s a high-set grille and van-like flanks, which will help it take the fight to models such as the new Vauxhall Meriva.

Meanwhile, the larger Skoda Van marks the firm’s debut in the proper MPV market – something which has been a long time coming.

When it arrives in 2010, this model will go up against the likes of the Ford S-MAX and Vauxhall Zafira. And as with its little brother, the Van has flared wheelarches as well as sharp, aggressive headlights to provide a dramatic, purposeful look.

A Skoda insider refused to be drawn on the plans, but told Auto Express: “When we do produce an MPV, it will be different to everything else that’s currently on the market.”