Skoda Slavia facelift to launch next week: Know what's new

Skoda Slavia facelift is set to launch in India on August 18, bringing subtle styling changes, added features and a new eight-speed automatic gearbox for the 1.0-litre TSI engine.Facelifted Skoda Slavia (Photo: Rushlane)Skoda Auto India is set to launch the facelifted Slavia on August 18, 2026, with the midsize sedan expected to receive a refreshed exterior design, more technology and features, and a new automatic gearbox for the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine.The 2026 Skoda Slavia facelift has been spotted testing on Indian roads several times over the past few months, revealing some of the key changes planned for the updated sedan. While this is not a major redesign, Skoda is expected to give the Slavia a more contemporary look while improving its equipment list and transmission options.Subtle exterior changes Front of thre udated Skoda Slavia (Photo: Rushlane) The Slavia facelift is expected to get a redesigned front grille, revised LED daytime running lights and an updated front bumper. Test cars have largely been camouflaged at the front and rear, suggesting that the sedan's side profile will remain mostly unchanged.The facelift could also bring newly designed alloy wheels and fresh exterior colour options. Rear of the facelifted Skoda Slavia (Photo: Rushlane) At the rear, the sedan is expected to receive revised LED tail-lamps and a redesigned bumper. An illuminated SKODA wordmark could also be added to the boot, giving the Slavia a more modern appearance and bringing it closer to the styling seen on newer Skoda models.Cabin likely to get more featuresThe overall dashboard layout of the Slavia is expected to remain largely unchanged, but Skoda is likely to add several new features and technology upgrades. The facelift could borrow some of the equipment introduced with the updated Kushaq, including a larger fully digital driver's display. Revised seat upholstery is also expected, while higher-spec variants could get front parking sensors.Another feature that could make its way to the Slavia is a rear-seat massage function, which was introduced with the Kushaq facelift. However, Skoda has not yet confirmed whether this feature will be offered on the sedan.Existing features are expected to continue, including the 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless smartphone charging, automatic climate control with rear AC vents, a single-pane sunroof and an eight-speaker audio system.Safety equipment is also expected to remain comprehensive, with six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-hold control, electronic differential lock, traction control, multi-collision braking and a tyre pressure monitoring system likely to continue.New 8-speed automatic for 1.0 TSIThe biggest mechanical update could be the introduction of a new eight-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox with the 1.0-litre TSI engine.The new transmission, which recently debuted on the facelifted Kushaq, is expected to replace the existing six-speed automatic. It should offer smoother shifts and improved drivability, particularly in city traffic.The 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine will continue to produce 116bhp and 178Nm, with a six-speed manual expected to remain available.The more powerful 1.5-litre four-cylinder TSI engine is also expected to remain unchanged. It produces 150bhp and 250Nm and will continue to be offered with a six-speed manual and a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox.Skoda Slavia facelift: Expected price and rivalsThe additional features, styling updates and new automatic transmission are likely to result in a modest price increase over the outgoing Slavia. Skoda is expected to announce the full variant-wise pricing at the launch on August 18.The facelifted Slavia will continue to compete in India's midsize sedan segment against the Volkswagen Virtus, Hyundai Verna and Honda City.With the facelift, Skoda is aiming to give the Slavia a fresher design, a more feature-rich cabin and a more convenient automatic option without changing the core powertrain lineup that has been central to the sedan's appeal.Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine - EndsPublished On: Aug 10, 2026 11:43 IST