The interior of the production-spec Skoda Slavia mid-size sedan has been a firmly guarded secret until now. But as we head towards its global premiere on November 18, the automaker has shared design sketches of its cabin. A few days we have also seen the exterior profile of the car.
At the first glimpse, the Slavia's interior looks quite similar to the Kushaq SUV, featuring a layered dashboard with a piano black bar dividing the top and bottom portions. What's most striking is the use of brown accents that runs throughout the length of the dash. It also gets a two-spoke steering wheel and rectangular air-con vents with a wide floating touchscreen infotainment system (probably of 10-inch) in the centre. However, unlike the Kushaq, it features rounded side AC vents and a fully-digital TFT instrument cluster. Skoda has also provided multiple storage options behind the gear lever.
While the central control panel isn't clearly visible, it could get touch controls for the automatic climate system and a wireless charging pad underneath along with USB Type-C charging ports.
The Skoda Slavia is likely to share its features list with the Kushaq that majorly includes wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, connected car tech, height-adjustable driver's seat, rear AC vents, a single-pane electric sunroof, front & rear armrest, passive keyless entry with push-button start, a premium sound system, etc.
In terms of safety, it will be equipped with up to six airbags, ABS with EBD, hill hold assist, a tire pressure monitoring system, electronic stability control, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and rear parking sensors with a rearview camera.
Based on the exterior design sketches, the Slavia will feature well-balanced proportions with cleaner side profiles, a bold butterfly grille upfront, sharp LED headlamps with integrated daytime running lamps, a sporty V-spoked alloy wheels, slanted roofline, and Skoda's signature C-shaped LED taillamps.
Skoda has already confirmed that the Slavia will be offered with the choice of 110PS 1.0-litre TSI and 150PS 1.5-litre TSI turbocharged petrol engines. While the former will come with 6-speed manual and torque-converter automatic transmissions, the bigger will get the option of a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT) along with a standard 6-speed manual unit.
The Skoda Slavia is expected to launch in early 2022, with prices ranging from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 16 lakh (ex-showroom). Once launched, it will go up against the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, fifth-gen Honda City, Hyundai Verna, and the upcoming Toyota Belta.
Skoda Slavia First Drive Impressions: –
