Skoda’s India 2.0 strategy saw the launch of the Kushaq SUV and Salvia mid-size sedan as its initial offerings. Now, with both models having completed over two years in the market, the carmaker is gearing up to update them with enhanced features. This information was shared by Skoda India Brand Director, Petr Janeba, during an interview with a media publication.
According to the report, the new Skoda Kushaq and Slavia will be equipped with Level 2 ADAS (autonomous driver assistance system) technology, positioning them competitively against rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Hyundai Verna, and Honda City, respectively.
Skoda plans to introduce the ADAS tech across its entire MQB A0-IN platform-based models, including the upcoming compact SUV slated for release in the first half of 2025. Alongside the ADAS suite, the new Skoda Kushaq and Slavia will feature a 360-degree camera and a range of additional features currently absent in the model lineup.
Discussing the forthcoming Skoda compact SUV, Janeba affirmed that it would be one of the most feature-loaded cars in its segment, with outstanding driving dynamics as one of its distinguishing characteristics. Official details about the model are yet to be disclosed, although it’s anticipated to share design elements, body panels, components, and engines with the Kushaq SUV.
Under the hood, the new Skoda compact SUV is expected to house the same 1.0L, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine found in the Kushaq. Paired with manual and automatic gearboxes, this motor delivers a maximum power output of 110bhp and 200Nm of torque.
The new Skoda compact SUV is likely to enter the market at competitive pricing to rival models such as the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Maruti Brezza, and Mahindra XUV300. Skoda aims to manufacture nearly 90,000 units of the model annually for both domestic sales and export markets, including North Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
