Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jan 24: After rolling out the Kushaq facelift in the Indian market, Skoda Auto India is now gearing up to update its popular sedan Slavia, with the refreshed version expected to be unveiled by 2026. Brand officials confirmed the timeline during an interaction with NDTV Automate.

The upcoming Slavia facelift has been spotted testing multiple times, offering glimpses of the changes in store. One of Skoda’s strong-selling models, the Slavia competes in the mid-size sedan segment with rivals such as the Volkswagen Virtus, Hyundai Verna and Honda City, all of which are also lined up for updates in the coming years.

Spy images suggest the sedan will receive a redesigned front fascia featuring a vertically slatted grille, revised headlamps and fog lamps, along with a reworked bumper sporting a web-style air dam. At the rear, updates are expected in the taillight design and rear bumper, giving the car a fresher look.

Inside the cabin, the Slavia facelift is likely to borrow several upgrades from the Kushaq. Expected enhancements include refreshed upholstery, an upgraded infotainment system, a redesigned digital instrument cluster and the possible addition of a panoramic sunroof. Higher variants could even introduce segment-first features such as rear seat massage functionality.

Mechanically, the facelifted Slavia is expected to retain its current engine lineup. This includes the 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 115 hp with manual and automatic gearbox options, and the more powerful 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine delivering 150 hp paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. However, Skoda may introduce an eight-speed torque converter automatic, similar to what is offered on the updated Kushaq.