Škoda Vision O: new design, technology, and approach

​The newly unveiled Škoda Vision O concept builds on the brand’s long tradition of estate cars and demonstrates how these versatile vehicles may evolve in terms of design, technology, and user experience. While it offers an attractive appearance, the emphasis is firmly placed on everyday usability and sustainability.

​Vision O also represents the next evolution of the Modern Solid design language, first introduced with the Vision 7S concept in 2022. At the same time, it showcases advanced technologies, with a wide range of possible drivetrains and electrification at the forefront. Vision O has been conceived as a multi-purpose vehicle for a broad customer base, meeting the needs of both family and business users.

​ "At Škoda, our commitment to our customers - who have trusted us as leaders in the estate segment since 2016 - drives us to deliver the Vision O: a blend of innovative design, over 650 Liters of luggage space, autonomous driving capabilities, and an intuitive AI assistant. This vehicle transforms every journey into an effortless, empowering experience while advancing our sustainability goals and elevating our ‚modern solid ¢ design principles.” says Klaus Zellmer, CEO of the Mladá Boleslav-based carmaker, on the launch of the concept.

boot image skoda vision o

​Vision O illustrates how Škoda intends to enhance the appeal of estate cars while maintaining its leadership in this popular European segment. The concept combines practical features, such as a luggage capacity exceeding 650 litres, with sustainable materials, advanced technologies, and innovative manufacturing processes designed to deliver economical operation and easy handling. 

Future meets tradition

Its exterior design immediately captures attention with a bold, confident presence. The evolution of Modern Solid introduces a new Tech-Loop front mask, replacing the previous Tech-Deck Face. This design integrates the vehicle’s front elements into a visual “O,” directly referencing the concept’s name. 

The illuminated front section flows into a design where aesthetics also serve top-notch aerodynamics. At the front, active grille shutters are integrated, while dedicated channels guide airflow around the wheels. The bonnet features two vents that help reduce drag and simultaneously direct rainwater away from the windscreen. Naturally, the wheels are aerodynamically optimized as well.

rear view of skoda vision o

Project Manager Daniel Edr explained: “In my view, the car’s simple, functional appearance draws inspiration from the first and second generations of the Octavia, returning to the core principle of functionality. Additional details highlight the link between future and tradition. Vison O also features a number of sophisticated details such as hidden door handles, a B-pillar inspired, according to designer Jounggeen Kim, by iconic Škoda models such as the Yeti and Roomster, and a panoramic roof all of which help to create a sense of space and character.  

The pillar, combined with the panoramic roof, emphasizes the vehicle’s spaciousness and features a playful detail referencing the hook in the carmaker´s logo. The sloping roofline and angled rear further refine the car’s elegant profile, finished at the back with T-shaped LED taillights—a signature element of the Modern Solid design language. A highlight is the new Circadian Hue body paint, which creates an unusual shimmering effect, shifting in colour from sandy beige to blue depending on the light and viewing angle.

roof view of skoda vision 0

Impressive display and buttons

Inside, the Škoda Vision O continues to embrace simplicity and minimalism, with a strong focus on practicality. Alongside the generous space for passengers and luggage—something Škoda owners have always appreciated—it offers a range of smart, thoughtful solutions. The centrepiece is a clear and intuitive cockpit layout with a sleek monochromatic aesthetic, complemented by a completely new approach to the user interface.

skoda vision o dashboard

A full-width horizontal display integrates key driver information directly within the field of vision, customizable to individual preferences. In addition to touch input, the system features the tactile Smart Dial controller for intuitive operation. Steering wheel buttons provide further convenience. “These solutions and interaction methods used in the study feel natural, timeless, and refined,” noted infotainment designer Daniel Hájek.

skoda vision o steering wheel

Artificial intelligence enhances usability through the Laura digital assistant, capable of managing not only vehicle functions but also tasks such as scheduling appointments, suggesting local activities, or even telling children’s stories. 

Passenger comfort is enhanced by circadian lighting, which adjusts the cabin’s illumination to natural daily cycles, supporting the body’s biorhythms. The vehicle also includes a standard 230V socket for laptops and other devices. 

Smart sustainability

The Škoda Vision O emphasizes sustainability not only in its exterior but especially within the interior. Extensive use of recycled and recyclable materials enhances the cabin’s overall atmosphere. Sustainability goes hand in hand with functionality and high quality. “We are experiencing a shift in how we perceive materials. In my view, the beauty of a material is revealed through its recyclability,” notes Peregrina Iglesias from the Color & Trim department.

 
The seats and interior elements are made from 100% recycled polyester flat knit, a material that allows components to be tailored precisely to size, producing no waste. It also enables easy variation of texture within a single material. The headrests, on the other hand, are crafted from Ultrasint TPU, and their production generates no waste either.

interior view of skoda vision o

​Large interior surfaces are covered with Ultrasuede nu, a material containing 65% plant-based components. It features a translucent finish with pearlescent pigments, creating subtle colour transitions and stain resistance. The floor is covered with NABORE, made from recycled leather offcuts.

A Segment Leader

Estate models have played a defining role in Škoda’s modern history. A key milestone came in 1998 with the introduction of the first Octavia Combi, followed by the Superb Combi in 2008. Since then, Škoda has sold almost 3.8 million estate cars, with the Octavia alone accounting for more than 3 million units.