Skoda Slavia facelift to launch tomorrow: All you need to know

The updated Slavia will get subtle styling changes, more features and a new 8-speed automatic gearbox for its 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine.Skoda Auto India is all set to launch the facelifted Slavia on August 18, 2026. The updated midsize sedan will receive a series of styling and equipment upgrades, while continuing with the existing 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engines. The biggest mechanical change will be the addition of an eight-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox for the smaller engine.The Slavia facelift has been spotted testing several times ahead of its debut, while Skoda has also released teasers highlighting some of the changes. Unlike a generation change, the update is expected to be evolutionary, with the sedan retaining its familiar overall shape and cabin layout.Skoda Slavia facelift: Exterior changesThe facelifted Slavia will get a sharper version of its existing design. At the front, the grille is expected to retain its broad shape but will feature revised chrome detailing. The headlamps will also receive updated detailing, while the front bumper is likely to be redesigned with revised fog lamp housings. Front of the facelifted Skoda Slavia (Photo: Rushlane) The side profile will largely carry over from the current car. However, Skoda is expected to introduce a new five-spoke alloy wheel design, while the chrome finish around the window line will continue. Rear of the updated Skoda Slavia (Photo: Rushlane) At the rear, the Slavia is expected to get tweaked LED tail-lamps and a revised bumper. Skoda could also introduce an illuminated SKODA lettering on the boot lid, giving the sedan a more contemporary look.It remains unclear whether the facelift will adopt connected tail-lamps similar to those seen on the updated Kushaq. New exterior colour options could also be part of the facelift package.More features inside the cabinThe Slavia's dashboard layout is expected to remain familiar, but the facelift will bring changes to equipment, trim and upholstery. One of the key additions could be the 10.25-inch fully digital driver's display borrowed from the updated Kushaq.Skoda could also revise the seat upholstery and introduce updated interior colour combinations. Higher variants are expected to gain additional convenience features, including front parking sensors.The Kushaq facelift's rear-seat massage function is another feature that could make its way into the Slavia. However, Skoda is yet to confirm its availability on the sedan.Other 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, powered and ventilated front seats and an eight-speaker audio system.The safety package is also expected to remain comprehensive, with features such as six airbags, electronic stability control, traction control, hill-hold assist, electronic differential lock, multi-collision braking and tyre pressure monitoring.New 8-speed automatic for 1.0 TSIThe most significant change to the Slavia's powertrain lineup will be the new automatic transmission for the 1.0-litre TSI engine. The three-cylinder turbo-petrol unit will continue to produce 116bhp and 178Nm, but is expected to be paired with an eight-speed torque-converter automatic instead of the existing six-speed automatic.The transmission has already made its debut on the updated Kushaq and is expected to improve low-speed refinement and make the Slavia better suited to stop-and-go urban driving. A six-speed manual gearbox will continue to be offered with the 1.0 TSI.The 1.5-litre four-cylinder TSI is expected to remain unchanged, producing 150bhp and 250Nm. It will continue with a six-speed manual and seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox.Skoda Slavia facelift: Price and rivalsSkoda is expected to announce the variant-wise prices of the facelifted Slavia at the launch on August 18. With the additional features, styling revisions and new automatic transmission, a modest price increase over the outgoing model is likely.The updated Slavia will continue to take on the Volkswagen Virtus, Hyundai Verna and Honda City in India's midsize sedan segment.Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine - EndsPublished On: Aug 17, 2026 12:03 IST