Skoda has teased the much-awaited Slavia facelift ahead of its launch on August 18. Being a mid-lifecycle update, it is expected to bring design changes, new features and an automatic gearbox upgrade for the 1.0 TSI engine.
Skoda Slavia facelift: What to expect
New headlights and tail-lights, redesigned front grille
Going by the spy shots from before, the sedan is expected to feature updated headlamp units, fog lamp housings and bumpers, along with a new grille with integrated lighting elements, similar to those on the Kushaq. A design refresh for the alloy wheels is likely as well.
Inside, Skoda is expected to keep the dashboard layout largely the same, but the facelift could bring a larger 10.25-inch digital driver’s display and new seat upholstery. It remains to be seen if the carmaker will also add a rear-seat massage function, which was introduced with the Kushaq facelift earlier this year.
Features such as a sunroof, wireless phone charger, automatic climate control with rear AC vents, six airbags and tyre-pressure monitoring system are expected to be carried over.
1.0 TSI can get a new 8-speed automatic
The carmaker is most likely to continue offering 115hp 1.0-litre and 150hp 1.5-litre direct-injection turbo-petrol engine options with the Slavia. While the 6-speed manual could continue to be on offer with the 1.0 TSI, Skoda could upgrade the current 6-speed automatic gearbox unit (AQ250) with an 8-speed unit (AQ300). This gearbox made its debut with the facelifted Kushaq. The 1.5 TSI, meanwhile, is expected to continue with the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT).
At the time of writing, the Skoda Slavia has a price bracket between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 18.19 lakh, ex-showroom, and a slight increase is expected with the upcoming update next week. The Skoda Slavia will continue to rival the Hyundai Verna, Honda City and the Volkswagen Virtus.