Skoda has officially unveiled the Slavia, a new B-Segment sedan designed for the Indian market, following the offensive that started Skoda Kushaq. Just like the Kushaq, the Slavia is based on the MQB-A0-IN platform that was developed by the Czech automaker for India. The model is measuring 4,541 mm long, 1,752 mm wide, 1,487 mm tall, and has a 2,651 mm wheelbase, making it larger than the first-generation Octavia. Following Skoda’s latest design language, the Slavia adopts a three-box sedan silhouette with a coupe-style roofline. While it has hints from the larger Octavia and Superb, it is nowhere near as large.
At the front, we find Fabia-inspired
full-LED headlights, a large hexagonal grille, and a complex set of air intakes
on the bumper. The rear end is characterized by the inclined roofline and the
high-mounted L-shaped “crystalline split” LED taillights. The model is
available in three trims (Active, Ambition, and Style) with five exterior
colors and wheels with a diameter of up to 16-inches.
Inside, the Slavia’s dashboard is mostly
derived from the Fabia supermini with less premium materials for the trim,
while other parts originate from the VW Polo/Virtus. Quality, tech, and design
are vastly improved compared to past offerings in the segment while
practicality is still the main focus. The cabin is quite roomy with plenty of
space for the rear passengers and a 521 lt cargo space.
The 10-inch infotainment touchscreen is
combined with an 8-inch digital instrument cluster behind Skoda’s signature
two-spoke steering wheel. Equipment includes ventilated front seats, keyless
entry, optional sunroof, and a variety of Simply Clever features like utility
recess on the dashboard, wireless charging pad, USB-C ports for the rear
passengers, rear cupholders, smartphone pockets, coat hooks, elastic bands, and
plenty of storage compartments. In terms of safety, the Slavia gets six airbags
and basic ADAS systems like multi-collision braking and hill hold control.
Under the bonnet, Indian customers have a
choice between a 1.0 TSI three-cylinder producing 113 hp, or
the more powerful 1.5 TSI four-cylinder producing 148 hp. The
smaller engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed torque
converter automatic, while the flagship is available with either a six-speed
manual or a seven-speed DSG. All variants are front-wheel-drive.
The Slavia is already available to order
in India, with deliveries scheduled for the first quarter of 2022. Besides
Skoda’s Kushaq and Slavia, VW Group’s strategy includes two more
closely-related future models for India wearing the Volkswagen logo.
