The anticipation is over! The 2025 Skoda Felicia pickup is here, and it’s set to redefine what we expect from an affordable, powerful pickup truck.
Renowned digital artists have already provided us with stunning renderings, showcasing an incredibly rugged design that follows Skoda’s latest design language. Let’s dive into what makes this new Felicia so exciting.
Design Upgrades
The new Felicia pickup embodies the brand’s latest design language with distinct headlights and a bold grill, paired with aesthetic solutions that characterize genuine off-roaders.
Massive tires, a wide stance, and a full load of black plastic cladding are just the beginning. The renderings also reveal massive skid plates and bumpers designed to maximize approach and departure angles.
Despite these rugged features, it’s unlikely that Skoda will pursue this exact direction. Although being part of the Volkswagen Group gives Skoda access to Ford’s pickup platform that underpins the new Amarok, Skoda’s vision for a pickup is a bit different.
Historical Reference
The Skoda Felicia Pickup, introduced in 1995, was a part of the Felicia range under Volkswagen’s management. It came with three engine options: a 1.3-litre petrol, a 1.6-litre petrol, and a 1.9-litre diesel, all mated to a five-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive. Known for its practicality, it featured a load area of 2.02 square meters and a payload of 530kg.
In 1997, the Felicia Fun was launched, offering a unique design with fold-out rear seats and a sliding rear wall, making it versatile for both work and leisure. Its bright yellow color and sporty rear spoiler highlighted its adventurous nature.
Production of the Felicia Pickup continued until 2001, with about 18,500 units also built for Volkswagen under the Caddy nameplate. The Pickup helped improve Skoda’s reputation for quality and reliability, earning the ISO 9002 certificate and setting the stage for future models like the Skoda Fabia.
Customer Expectations
Times have changed, and customers are now recognizing the benefits of an open cargo area. The new 2025 Skoda Felicia pickup is expected to cater to these needs, offering work-oriented single cab variants that could also come as panel vans. Additionally, it’s anticipated to come as a double cab pickup, spacious enough to accommodate smaller families.
Platform and Technical Details
The 2025 Felicia will continue Skoda’s tradition of affordability. The chosen platform is likely the MQB architecture and its A0 variation, underpinning various small and affordable cars within the Volkswagen Group. Skoda has also introduced a simplified version of this platform for the Indian market, making it even more cost-effective.
Suspension Setup
The 2025 Skoda Felicia will feature a sturdy, durable, and reliable unibody platform, characteristic of Volkswagen Group’s rigid construction standards. The suspension setup is expected to include a simple McPherson strut at the front and a solid rear axle, beneficial for hauling and towing. This setup ensures durability and reliability, even if it’s not the most refined.
To keep costs down, some sources speculate that the new Felicia might feature drum brakes on the rear wheels, a rare but not unprecedented choice in modern vehicles.
Powertrain and Performance
Affordability doesn’t mean compromising on performance. The new Felicia will rely on familiar powertrain options from other Skoda models. It’s likely to start with a 1.0 L turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine, available in variants ranging from 95 to 115 horsepower. To further enhance affordability, a base version with a 5-speed manual might be offered, though most variants will probably come with a six-speed unit.
Transmission Options
For those seeking more power, the Felicia will likely offer a 1.5 L turbo 4 engine, a well-known unit within the Volkswagen Group. This engine’s most popular version delivers 150 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, more than enough to move the small pickup. Higher-end variants might even include an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, elevating performance with lightning-fast shifts.
Drivetrain Options
The new Felicia could be offered with an all-wheel-drive system, though it would likely remain a front-wheel-drive biased unit based on a Haldex differential. While this may not match the off-road capabilities of some competitors, it still offers solid performance for most users.
Diesel and Alternative Fuel Options
Given its commercial orientation, the new Felicia will probably include a diesel version, likely a 1.6 L turbo diesel. This engine, updated to meet strict emission standards, would be available in variants up to 95 horsepower. Considering markets like India and South America, CNG variants might also be an option.
Interior Design
One of the most important aspects of the new pickup is the interior design. Skoda’s “Simply Clever” slogan represents their commitment to practical and convenient features. The new Felicia pickup will come with a host of smart solutions, including various storage compartments, convenience features, and a thoughtfully designed interior.
The 2025 Skoda Felicia Pickup features a luxurious interior with high-quality leather seats, wood and metal finishes, and a spacious layout designed for comfort and sophistication. Advanced connectivity and a premium sound system enhance the driving experience.
Additionally, it includes state-of-the-art driver assistance systems like collision warning and parking assistance, ensuring both safety and convenience. The infotainment system supports satellite navigation and smartphone integration, making the cabin both modern and user-friendly
Modern Design
Modern Skodas are more than just functional—they’re also stylish. The new Felicia is expected to feature a similar dashboard to the Kushaq, balancing hard plastics and elegant design. High-tech features like a 10-inch infotainment screen, USB ports, and wireless charging will be available, with higher trims adding chrome inserts and ventilated leather upholstery.
Practical Features
Practicality remains a key focus, especially for the double cab version, which will be perfect for small families. Despite its compact dimensions, the Felicia will offer ample passenger room and a flexible cargo bed. A midgate connecting the cargo bed to the cabin seems like a logical addition for this pickup.
2025 Skoda Felicia – Release Date and Price
As for the release date, while Skoda has not officially confirmed the exact date for the 2025 Felicia, it is expected to launch in November 2024 alongside other new models like the Skoda Enyaq iV.
This aligns with Skoda’s broader strategy of rolling out multiple new models, including electric vehicles, by that year. The Felicia’s arrival is highly anticipated, particularly in the context of Skoda’s evolving lineup and their push towards more sustainable and innovative vehicle options.
Pricing for the 2025 Skoda Felicia has not been officially announced yet, but it’s likely to be competitive within the market. Drawing comparisons with other upcoming Skoda models, such as the Enyaq iV, which is expected to be priced under $220,000, the Felicia could become one of the more affordable options in its segment.
Competitors to consider
The 2025 Skoda Felicia pickup will face strong competition in the market. The Ford Maverick, known for its compact size and efficient hybrid powertrain, offers an affordable and practical option for buyers.
The Hyundai Santa Cruz combines SUV comfort with pickup utility, featuring advanced safety and a stylish design aimed at urban adventurers.
Lastly, the Toyota Tacoma, renowned for its durability and off-road capabilities, remains a solid choice for those needing a rugged and reliable vehicle. These models highlight the diverse options in the pickup segment, setting a high bar for the new Felicia.
0-60 Time
The 2025 Skoda Felicia is projected to have a 0-60 mph time of around 9 to 10 seconds, significantly improved from earlier models. This performance enhancement is expected due to advancements in engine technology and vehicle dynamics, reflecting Skoda’s commitment to blending efficiency and power.
Historically, Felicia models had 0-60 mph times ranging from 11.6 to 16 seconds, so the 2025 model shows notable progress. It will likely feature efficient petrol and hybrid powertrains, aiming to provide a balance of acceleration and fuel economy.
