Skoda Slavia : Skoda has just injected a breath of fresh air into the mid-size sedan space with the launch of the Slavia, and boy it’s not just a looker.
Based on a contemporary platform, adequate features and an enthusiast tuned product, the Skoda Slavia aims to take on the SUVs by giving India something different – something more sophisticated and focused at driving.
On the outside, the Slavia appears self-assured and expensive. Subtly angular yet muscular; sleek yet aggressive.
At a time when most buyers are moving toward high-riding crossovers, Skoda is doubling down on what it does best-making engaging, well-built sedans with a European flavor.
Exterior appearance: Sharp, Bold and European
Skoda Slavia’s design does not deviate much from Skoda’s contemporary identity. Up front, there’s the signature butterfly grille with acute LED headlamps that have crystalline details on either side.
The aggressive lines continue the length of the car, for a long, wide stance that feels more upscale than its segment implies.
There’s some chrome on the grille and around the windows and rear bumper to give it a touch of class.
The Slavia’s long bonnet and coupe-like roofline give it sporty proportions, while the 16-inch dual-tone alloys add striking flair. It is sporty-looking without trying too hard, and classy-looking without being dated.
Interior: Comfort Tied to High-Tech Innovation
Step inside the Slavia and it’s equally modern, yet focused on hand-craftsmanship, as it is high-tech.
The dashboard gets dual-tone treatment with textured inserts; there is also a free-standing 10-inch infotainment touch screen and a full digital instrument cluster in the top trims.
Soft-touch materials, options like leatherette upholstery and ambient lighting, make the cabin feel like a proper premium sedan.
Both rows offer plenty of space, and then some legroom and headroom, even for taller passengers.
The front seats are also ventilated, and the rear seats get AC vents along with a central armrest and plenty of foot space. With a 521-litre boot, this one is also practical for road trips and airport runs.
Engine & Performance:Gen III Optimized for Power and Performance
The Slavia comes with two TSI petrol engines, a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo and 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo, from Skoda.
Performance and frugality are built into both engines, but it’s the 1.5 TSI that is particularly well served by this.
Developing 150P S and 250Nm, it is strong and has a good pick up and also feels calm on the highway.
It even gets active cylinder technology, deactivating two cylinders at low load to improve mileage.
The gearbox choices are a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed torque converter automatic (on the 1.0-litre) and a 7-speed DSG dual clutch automatic (on the 1.5-litre).
The Slavia rides with the composure of something a little more mature, soaking up bumps while maintaining composure at high speed.
The handling is precise and the car is fun to drive for those who like getting into the corners.
Pros
Elegant and bold design
Sharp lines, chrome embellishments, and LED lights give a premium midsize European sedan appearance.
Spacious and comfortable interior
One of the most spacious sedans in its class, with nice touches and quality materials.
Strong engines; refined and comfortable ride; good fuel economy with the diesel engine; available long-range fuel tank.
Powered by a 1.5L TSI engine – the epitome of high-performance power – you’re in for one thrilling ride.
Loaded with premium features
Ventilated seats, sunroof, digital cluster, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, the works.
Solid build quality
Skoda doesn’t just have a reputation for solid construction—every panel you touch feels well fit, too.
Cons
No diesel variant
Someone who spends a lot of time on the road might want a diesel engine.
Touch-sensitive controls
Some people might not like the touch-enabled climate and audio settings as much.
DSG transmission can be expensive to service
Smooth though it is, the 7-speed DSG is a notorious wallet-drainer if not well maintained.
Prices inch up at top trims
The top-end 1.5 TSI model takes its price tag quickly into competition with entry-level luxury cars.
Rear headroom is cramped for taller passengers
And the sloping roofline, though it looks cool, might make it just a little uncomfortable for anyone, rear seat, taller than 6 feet.
Skoda Slavia Final Thoughts
IN SHORT: The Skoda Slavia combines traditional sedan enjoyments with modern-day convenience and tech. It is constructed to be both efficient and fancy but also functional.
For people sick of unwieldy SUVs and looking for something that’s more driver-focused yet still family-friendly, the Slavia provides an appealing change of pace.
It won’t be to everyone’s tastes — especially diesel fans — but as a complete package, the Slavia does the job. It’s handsome, fast, comfortable and rich with features, and it’s one of the segment’s strongest sedans.