Škoda Auto has unveiled the updated Slavia in India, bringing refreshed styling, new technology, additional comfort features and updated powertrain options to the popular sedan. Built on the locally developed MQB-A0-IN platform and manufactured in India, the Slavia has sold nearly 80,000 units since its launch. The updated model continues Škoda Auto’s “made in India, for India” strategy and strengthens the company’s local portfolio alongside the Kylaq and Kushaq SUVs.
The new Slavia features a redesigned exterior with new LED headlamps, updated LED taillamps with sequential indicators and new alloy wheel designs. The cabin receives fresh colour combinations and additional equipment. The Monte Carlo variant is available from launch with dual-tone exterior colours, black design elements, special badging and styling inspired by Škoda’s motorsport heritage.
One of the biggest changes is the introduction of an eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission with the 1.0 TSI engine. Škoda says this is a segment-first feature. The 1.0 TSI will also continue with a six-speed manual transmission. The 1.5 TSI engine remains available with a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission, while variants using the 1.5 TSI now receive rear disc brakes.
The updated Slavia also gains several new comfort and technology features. A segment-first Rear Seat Massage function is designed to improve passenger comfort. Other additions include a 360-degree Area View camera, Park Pilot with front parking sensors and a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit.
The 10.1-inch infotainment system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It also features an AI Companion powered by Google Cloud’s Automotive AI Agent. The system has been developed to understand Indian English accents and allows users to access information and control functions such as music, calls and climate settings through voice commands.
Safety remains a key feature of the Slavia. The sedan has received a five-star rating for adult and child occupant protection in Global NCAP testing. More than 25 active and passive safety features, including six airbags, are offered as standard across the range. Additional features include rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, a rear wiper, rear-window demister, an auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror and anti-glare exterior mirrors.
Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto, said India remains one of the company’s most important growth markets and that the updated Slavia builds on the success of a model that has earned strong customer acceptance. Martin Jahn, Škoda Auto Board Member for Sales and Marketing, said the update focuses on powertrain improvements, comfort and connectivity while retaining the sedan’s practicality and safety.
The Slavia was launched in India in 2022 following the Kushaq and has become one of the company’s key models in the country. India also serves as an important export base for the sedan, with the model shipped to markets including Vietnam, the Middle East and Africa.
Škoda Auto has been present in India since 2000, when it became the first Volkswagen Group brand to enter the market. Over the years, India has evolved into one of the company’s key growth markets outside Europe and a strategic pillar of its global internationalisation strategy.
Following its assumption of responsibility for Volkswagen Group activities in India in 2018, Škoda Auto launched a dedicated “Made in India, for India” product strategy. The initiative began with the Kushaq SUV, followed by the Slavia sedan and, most recently, the Kylaq SUV, strengthening the company’s presence across important segments of the Indian automotive market.
The Kylaq has been particularly successful in India’s highly competitive sub-four-metre SUV segment. Strong customer demand for the model contributed to Škoda nearly doubling its vehicle deliveries in India in 2025 compared with the previous year. India’s importance to Škoda extends beyond its domestic market. With a growing product portfolio, established manufacturing capabilities and a strategically positioned operation, the country serves as an important hub for the company’s activities across the wider ASEAN region, the Middle East and other international markets. Through its continued investment in India, Škoda Auto is strengthening its position in one of the world’s most dynamic automotive markets while using the country as a platform for broader international growth.
