Škoda Auto has unveiled the updated Slavia in India, bringing a refreshed design, enhanced comfort and new powertrain features to its popular saloon. Built on the locally developed MQB-A0-IN platform and manufactured in India, the Slavia has sold nearly 80,000 units since its launch, making it one of the best-selling models in its segment.
The updated Slavia introduces several segment-first features, including new LED headlamps, redesigned LED taillamps, an eight-speed automatic transmission for the 1.0 TSI engine and a Rear Seat Massage function. These upgrades are aimed at improving the car’s everyday comfort, technology and driving experience.
The Slavia is part of Škoda Auto’s ‘made in India, for India’ portfolio, alongside the Kylaq and Kushaq SUVs. India also serves as an important export hub for the model, with the Slavia being shipped to markets across Vietnam, the Middle East and Africa.
Škoda Auto CEO Klaus Zellmer said India remains a key global growth market for the company, highlighting the Slavia’s success and the strong trust it has built among customers. He added that the updated model will help strengthen the company’s growth momentum in the country.
Martin Jahn, Škoda Auto Board Member for Sales and Marketing, said the updated Slavia builds on the model’s established strengths while adding improvements in powertrain, comfort and connectivity. According to him, the combination of practicality, technology and comfort is expected to attract customers seeking a modern and capable saloon.
With the latest updates, Škoda Auto aims to further strengthen the Slavia’s position in India’s competitive saloon segment while supporting the country’s growing importance in its global operations.
Building on a long tradition of successful saloons
Following the Kushaq, the Slavia was introduced to the Indian market at the beginning of 2022 as the second model in Škoda’s localised model campaign. The name ‘Slavia’ builds a bridge between India and the Czech Republic and pays homage to the company’s founding fathers, Václav Laurin and Václav Klement. In 1896, they began designing and selling their own bicycles in Mladá Boleslav under the Slavia name. With nearly 80,000 units sold to date, the Slavia is one of the best-selling models in its segment in India. It thus continues Škoda’s long history of internationally successful saloons. Apart from the Slavia, the Octavia RS is currently part of Škoda’s saloon portfolio in India, with the Superb set to follow in 2027.
Sharper design and the dynamic Monte Carlo variant
The updated Slavia features a refreshed look and dynamic design language, along with new technologies that further enhance comfort and convenience. These include segment-first offerings such as a Rear Seat Massage function, as well as enhanced connectivity through a new-generation infotainment system featuring an AI Companion powered by Google Cloud’s Automotive AI Agent. For an even more distinctive appearance, the Slavia now features all-new LED headlamps, redesigned LED taillamps with sequential rear indicators and new alloy wheel designs. Furthermore, fresh interior colour schemes enhance the cabin. The popular Monte Carlo trim is available from launch with dual-tone exterior colours, characteristic black exterior accents, Monte Carlo badging and visual cues that pay homage to Škoda’s rally heritage.
Drivetrain portfolio: Segment-first eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission
The proven TSI powertrains remain available for the updated Slavia. For the 1.0 TSI, the introduction of an eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission represents a segment first. A six-speed manual transmission is also an option with this engine. The 1.5 TSI continues to be available with a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission, while models equipped with this engine now also feature rear disc brakes.
Enhanced comfort and smart technology features
The updated Slavia offers a range of new comfort features, including the segment-first Rear Seat Massage function. A 360° Area View camera, Park Pilot with front parking sensors and a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit further enhance comfort and convenience both in urban traffic and on longer journeys. The 10.1-inch infotainment system supports wireless smartphone integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and features an AI Companion powered by Google Cloud’s Automotive AI Agent. Developed to recognise Indian English accents, the system provides real-time access to information via voice commands and enables hands-free control of music, calls, climate settings and other functions.
Best-possible active and passive safety
The Slavia achieved five stars for both adult and child occupant protection in Global NCAP testing, reflecting its robust engineering and high level of safety. More than 25 active and passive safety features, including six airbags, are standard across the range.
Features such as a rear wiper, rear-window demister, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, an auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror and anti-glare exterior rear-view mirrors further enhance visibility and driver confidence in challenging conditions. Engineered with a comprehensive approach encompassing active, passive and preventive safety, the Slavia reinforces Škoda Auto’s commitment to offering a range of vehicles with five-star safety ratings in India.
