The 2002 Škoda Tudor Concept marked a significant departure for the Czech automaker, venturing into the realm of two-door coupes, a segment previously unexplored in Škoda's lineup under VW ownership. The Tudor Concept debuted at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show, captivating audiences with its elegant design and innovative features.
Based on the first generation of the Superb sedan, which had been introduced just a year earlier, the Tudor Concept embodied a blend of sophistication and sportiness. Named after the historic Škoda 1101 Tudor of 1948, this concept car was not conceived with the intention of mass production but rather as a challenge posed by Škoda's then Head of Technological Development, Wilfried Bockelmann, to push the boundaries of design.
Designed by Zdeněk Cibulka under the supervision of design boss Thomas Ingenlath, the Tudor Concept was initially a 1:4 scale model. It later evolved into an actual-size plastic model and eventually the final car. Notably, the design incorporated elements from the Superb sedan, seamlessly integrating its front fascia and rear section into the coupe's aesthetic, with a focus on maintaining a production-ready appearance.
One of the most distinctive features of the Tudor Concept was its pioneering design cues, including the signature C-shaped taillights, now synonymous with the Škoda brand. The exterior profile boasted a smoothly descending roofline and intersecting rising lines, exuding timeless elegance and a hint of sportiness.
Inside, the Tudor Concept showcased top-quality materials sourced from the Superb sedan, with onyx- and ivory-colored upholstery complemented by a three-spoke sports steering wheel and a horizontal matte-aluminum strip on the dashboard. The interior also featured three displays for navigation, climate control, and multifunctional information between the instrument dials.
Powering the Tudor Concept was a robust 2.8-liter, 30-valve six-cylinder gasoline engine generating 190 horsepower, the most potent power plant available in the Superb at the time. Paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, the Tudor Concept promised spirited performance and driving dynamics.
Despite being a concept, the Škoda Tudor left a lasting impression with its captivating design, innovative features, and seamless integration of Škoda's design language. Its brief brush with theft in India only underscored the admiration and attention it garnered, reflecting the success of Škoda's bold foray into the realm of two-door coupes.
Source & Images: Skoda
