Mladá Boleslav/Mumbai, 18 August 2026 – Škoda Auto has unveiled the updated Slavia. Based on the locally developed MQB-A0-IN platform and produced in India, it ranks among the best-selling saloons in its segment, with nearly 80,000 units sold to date. The update introduces several firsts for the segment, a refined design, new powertrain options and additional comfort features. Highlights include new LED headlamps and redesigned LED taillamps, an eight-speed automatic transmission for the 1.0 TSI engine and a Rear Seat Massage function. Alongside the Kylaq and Kushaq SUVs, the Slavia forms part of Škoda Auto’s localised ‘made in India, for India’ model portfolio. Beyond its domestic market, the Slavia is also exported to growth markets including Vietnam, the Middle East and Africa, underlining the role of India as a second strong pillar for Škoda Auto outside Europe and its importance to the company’s internationalisation strategy.
“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
“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.”
Martin Jahn, Škoda Auto Board Member for Sales and Marketing
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.
Škoda Auto in India
Škoda Auto has been active in India since 2000, when it became the first Volkswagen Group brand to establish a presence there. Since then, this dynamic growth market has become a second pillar outside Europe and a cornerstone of Škoda’s internationalisation strategy. After assuming responsibility for the Volkswagen Group’s activities in India in 2018, Škoda launched a ‘made in India, for India’ model campaign: first the Kushaq SUV, followed by the first version of the Slavia saloon and, at the beginning of last year, the Kylaq SUV. Strong demand for the Kylaq in the popular sub-4-metre segment helped Škoda almost double its deliveries in 2025 compared to the previous year. With its current model range and geographical position, India also serves as a strategic hub for the wider ASEAN region, the Middle East and other markets.
