Skoda officially unveiled the mass production version of its new high-end mid-size sedan Slavia. The latest Skoda badge sedan is based on the MQB-AO-IN platform and is the second Skoda model in the India 2.0 project. Interestingly, Skoda claims that Slavia benefits from a localization level of up to 95%, which leads us to believe that it might make its debut at a lucrative price when it is launched in the country. The upcoming Slavia mid-size sedan will replace the Skoda Rapid that will be launched in the Indian market.
Skoda Slavia is a pure charmer, characterized by a sensual design. On the surface, Slavia seems to have drawn inspiration from the recently launched fourth-generation Skoda Octavia. What you see in the picture is metallic crystal blue, which is one of two exclusive colors for the Indian market, and the other is tornado red paint. In addition to these two, Slavia also offers candy white, reflective silver and carbon steel color options. The instrument panel accentuates the strong seriousness, as it has a slanted hood, and the prominent lines flow down to the chrome-profiled hexagonal grille, with glossy black vertical pillars. The stylish headlights use an integrated L-shaped LED DRL to highlight its sporty elements. In addition, the lower air intake grille on the front bumper uses a honeycomb mesh grille, which is twisted upward to accommodate the circular fog lights.
As for the sides, Slavia has a shiny black Skoda badge embedded on the fender. The high-end sedan has a mature and strong shoulder line and a coupe-like sloping roof line, giving it a sporty posture. In addition, Slavia is also equipped with a stylish aerodynamic ORVM with turn indicators. The side profile looks completely new with 16-inch two-tone alloy wheels and chrome inserts in the window waistline.
At least it can be said that the silhouette at the back has attracted people's attention. The vehicle has the striking Skoda lettering on the trunk lid between the stylish LED taillights. The lower part of the bumper has a neatly positioned chrome insert that extends from one end to the other. The spoiler-like design elements on the trunk lid further enhance the sporty characteristics. In general, Skoda Slavia has clear proportions and mature styling elements, which will definitely attract some attention on the road.
Slavia's interior is based on the latest design concept of Skoda's European models. The vehicle uses a two-tone theme and high-quality interior, thereby increasing the premium quotient. The two-tone instrument panel uses soft-touch materials and provides a neat fit and finish to provide a quality experience. The center of the dashboard is highlighted by a 10-inch independent infotainment system. It is believed that the lines below the infotainment screen are inspired by the outline of the Skoda grille and provide an armrest when operating the display. The circular air outlets at both ends of the instrument panel demonstrate its sporty characteristics. The vehicle has large rectangular vents in the center, which are neatly located under the large touch screen infotainment unit.
Skoda Slavia has a unique leather-wrapped two-spoke steering wheel with one-button media control. Behind it is a large all-digital instrument panel that can read out all important information. The center console also provides multiple buttons for seat ventilation, door locks, etc. The vehicle is equipped with a fairly basic but fully functional dual tone door panel. Provide sufficient storage space for residents. It is worth noting that starting from the Ambition trim, the touch-sensitive Climatronic with air care function has been provided as part of the standard configuration, while comfort functions (such as the ventilated front seats with leather trim) are only available in the high-end Style Variants.
In terms of safety, Skoda Slavia provides up to six airbags, ISOFIX anchor points on the rear seats and top tether anchor points, ESC, multiple collision braking, mountain control, rear-view cameras and tire pressure monitoring Device. For more convenience, this car is equipped with a power sunroof, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ambient lighting, wireless charging, rain and light sensors, and cruise control.
Skoda Slavia will offer two TSI gasoline engine options. The 1.0-liter three-cylinder TSI engine can produce 114bhp and 175Nm of torque. The engine has a six-speed manual transmission and a six-speed automatic transmission to choose from.
Alternatively, customers can also choose the EVO 1.5-liter four-cylinder TSI engine with active cylinder technology. The engine can produce 148bhp and 250Nm of peak torque. The engine offers six-speed manual and seven-speed DSG options. Active cylinder technology automatically shuts down both cylinders when the engine load is low, thereby reducing fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions.
The price of Skoda Slavia will be announced in early 2022. After its launch, this high-end mid-size sedan will compete with Honda City, Hyundai Verna and Maruti Suzuki Ciaz. Skoda Slavia has indeed become a promising competitor in its market segment, but pricing will be a decisive factor in its success in the Indian market.
We have driven the prototype, and you can read more about it here.
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