Mumbai: Škoda Auto has unveiled the updated Slavia in India, giving its mid-size saloon a refreshed design, a segment-first eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission for the 1.0 TSI engine, new technology and additional comfort features including a Rear Seat Massage function.
Built in India on the locally developed MQB-A0-IN platform, the Slavia has recorded nearly 80,000 sales since its introduction in early 2022, according to Škoda. The updated model will continue to be offered with 1.0 TSI and 1.5 TSI petrol engines, while bringing significant changes to transmissions, equipment and styling.
Among the most notable mechanical updates is the introduction of an eight-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox with the 1.0 TSI engine, which Škoda describes as a segment first. A six-speed manual transmission will continue to be available with the engine.
The more powerful 1.5 TSI retains its seven-speed DSG automatic transmission. Cars equipped with the 1.5-litre engine will now also receive rear disc brakes.
New LED lighting and redesigned exterior
Visually, the updated Slavia gains all-new LED headlamps, redesigned LED taillamps with sequential rear indicators and new alloy-wheel designs.
Škoda has also introduced fresh interior colour combinations as part of the update.
The Monte Carlo variant remains part of the range and will be available from launch with dual-tone exterior colours, black exterior detailing, Monte Carlo badging and styling elements inspired by Škoda’s motorsport heritage.
The changes are evolutionary rather than an attempt to reinvent the saloon — probably sensible when nearly 80,000 customers have already voted with their wallets.
Rear Seat Massage function among new comfort features
Škoda is putting considerably greater emphasis on rear-seat comfort with the updated Slavia.
The car introduces what the company describes as a segment-first Rear Seat Massage function, alongside a 360° Area View camera, Park Pilot with front parking sensors and a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit.
The updated model also receives a 10.1-inch infotainment system supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
More unusually, the infotainment system incorporates an AI Companion powered by Google Cloud’s Automotive AI Agent. Škoda says the technology has been developed to recognise Indian English accents and can provide real-time information through voice commands.
The system can also be used for hands-free operation of music, telephone calls, climate settings and other vehicle functions.
For drivers accustomed to repeating voice commands until the car finally understands them, recognition of Indian accents may prove to be one of the less glamorous but more useful upgrades.
Six airbags standard across range
Safety equipment remains a major part of Škoda’s positioning for the Slavia.
The saloon previously received five-star ratings for both adult and child occupant protection in Global NCAP testing.
Škoda says more than 25 active and passive safety features will be standard across the updated Slavia range, including six airbags.
Additional equipment includes 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.
The company says these systems form part of a broader combination of active, passive and preventive safety technologies.
Slavia remains important to Škoda’s India strategy
The Slavia arrived in India at the beginning of 2022 as the second vehicle under Škoda’s heavily localised India model programme, following the Kushaq SUV.
Its name also reaches considerably further back than the current car. Škoda says “Slavia” pays tribute to company founders Václav Laurin and Václav Klement, who began designing and selling bicycles under the Slavia name in Mladá Boleslav in 1896.
With nearly 80,000 units sold, Škoda says the Slavia has become one of the best-selling saloons in its segment.
“India remains one of our most important global growth markets and a great example of what Škoda Auto can achieve when we listen closely to our customers. The new Slavia builds on this approach. It strengthens a model that has become a real success story, earning the trust of customers and establishing itself as one of the best-selling saloons in its segment. This success belongs to our teams, our dealer partners and, above all, our customers. Together, we have built strong momentum. With a clear strategy and a strong local presence, I am confident that we are writing the next chapter of our growth story in India.”
Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto
Martin Jahn, Škoda Auto Board Member for Sales and Marketing, said the changes were intended to build on the model’s established position in India.
“This update of the Slavia is the next step for our well-established and successful saloon for India. With nearly 80,000 sold cars to date, the Slavia has established a strong position in this dynamic segment. Building on its proven qualities, we are introducing targeted improvements in powertrain, comfort and connectivity that further enhance its appeal. We are convinced that the combination of everyday practicality, state-of-the-art technology and outstanding comfort will attract new customers looking for a modern, compelling saloon.”
Made in India, exported overseas
Along with the Kylaq and Kushaq SUVs, the Slavia forms part of Škoda Auto’s locally produced “made in India, for India” portfolio.
However, the Slavia’s role extends beyond the domestic market. The India-produced saloon is also exported to markets including Vietnam, the Middle East and Africa.
Škoda has operated in India since 2000 and was the first Volkswagen Group brand to establish a presence in the country. In 2018, it took responsibility for Volkswagen Group activities in India and subsequently expanded its localisation programme.
The Kushaq was followed by the Slavia and, more recently, the Kylaq sub-four-metre SUV. Škoda said strong demand for the Kylaq helped the company almost double its deliveries in 2025 compared with the previous year.
India is also being positioned as a production and export base for the wider ASEAN region, the Middle East and other international markets.
Škoda currently offers the Slavia alongside the Octavia RS in its Indian saloon portfolio, while the Superb is scheduled to return in 2027.
With SUVs continuing to dominate much of India’s passenger-vehicle conversation, the updated Slavia represents Škoda’s effort to keep the traditional three-box saloon relevant through additional technology, comfort and drivetrain choices. Whether buyers are persuaded by an eight-speed automatic, AI-powered infotainment or the increasingly rare pleasure of a proper boot, the update shows that Škoda is not ready to let the saloon quietly surrender the road to SUVs.
