Skoda Slavia facelift changes 8-speed auto and features

Skoda has refreshed the Slavia sedan with a focus on the 1.0-litre TSI engine and cabin comfort. The update brings an 8-speed automatic gearbox and several new features to an already popular midsize sedan. Owners and buyers in the segment should know what actually changed before deciding.

What the 8 speed auto changes

The biggest mechanical shift is the new 8-speed automatic paired with the 1.0-litre TSI. Published road tests note the extra ratios let the engine run at lower RPMs while cruising, making highway driving more relaxed than the old 6-speed automatic. The 1.5-litre TSI remains unchanged and stays the performance choice with 110KW and 250 Nm.

Fuel efficiency should also improve on the new gearbox since the engine does not need to rev as high at speed. This is the main reason Skoda made the switch for the smaller engine option.

New features and styling points

Outside, the headlights have new DRLs and the grille gets a refreshed dotted chrome pattern. Inside, the cabin gets a 10.25-inch MID, front ventilated seats and rear seats with massage functionality. Published testing also notes the ride is firmer than a Honda City but handles uneven roads well with its ground clearance.

• 360 degree camera added on the side profile
• Sequential turn indicators and full LED tail lamps
• Two new colours bring the total to ten options
• ADAS and electric tailgate still not available

Current model variants and on road cost

The existing model line spans from the Classic 10 Tsi Mt to the Prestige 15 Tsi Dct. On the road in Mumbai figures start around ₹11.57 lakh and go up to ₹21.91 lakh depending on the variant. Bangalore and Hyderabad show similar ranges at ₹12.00 lakh and ₹11.86 lakh respectively.

Safety remains consistent with six airbags across the range. The fuel tank capacity is 45 litres and the car runs on petrol with a claimed mileage of 20.3 kmpl for the manual version.

Have you driven the updated Slavia yet and does the 8 speed gearbox feel different from the 6 speed?