Skoda to reclothe VW T-Roc to battle JUKE

Skoda is readying its own version of the Volkswagen T-Roc to battle the hot-selling Nissan JUKE.

Set to be on sale by 2019, the new model will share the same Volkswagen Group MQB A0 platform as the recently revealed Volkswagen T-Roc and is almost certain to borrow design cues from both the small Karoq (pictured) and mid-size Kodiaq.

Being co-developed with the forthcoming Rapide Spaceback wagon, the little Skoda has been designed as a direct rival for not only the Nissan, but other small SUVs like the Mazda CX-3.

The entry-level SUV from Volkswagen Group's Czech brand will share an engine line-up with its German sibling, the T-Roc -- including the 85kW/200Nm turbocharged 1.0-litre petrol powerplant.

Seeking more grunt? The 110kW/250Nm 1.5-litre from the Golf 7.5 and a Golf GTI-sourced 140kW/320Nm 2.0-litre TSI will oblige.

Turbo-diesels for some markets will also be offered, most likely including a 85kW/250Nm 1.6-litre oil-burner.

In Europe, a plug-in hybrid could also be offered after launch.

Unlike the T-Roc, all-wheel drive will be off the menu, presumably to help distance the small Skoda SUV from its more expensive VW cousin.

Instead, the pint-size Czech SUV is likely to major in cabin and luggage space and be more keenly priced.