Skoda is preparing to introduce significant updates for its Kushaq SUV and Slavia sedan both integral to the brand's India 2.0 strategy. These models, which have been on the market for 2.5 and 2 years, respectively, are set to receive a series of feature enhancements, leading up to facelifts that will include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Upcoming Special Editions and Feature Updates
Skoda plans to roll out special editions and expand the feature sets of the Kushaq and Slavia. Petr Janeba, Skoda's brand director, acknowledged the need to catch up in terms of features and confirmed that this gap would be addressed not only with the facelifts but also with interim updates. Among the anticipated additions is a 360-degree camera, a feature that is currently absent in these models.
Inclusion of ADAS Technology
Level 2 autonomous ADAS is a notable feature available in competitors like the Honda City, Hyundai Verna, Creta, Kia Seltos, and Honda Elevate. Skoda's midsize offerings currently lack ADAS, but Janeba assured that this technology would be gradually introduced across the entire MQB A0-IN platform with the upcoming facelifts. This means that the forthcoming Skoda compact SUV, part of the India 2.5 strategy and also based on the same platform, is expected to launch with an ADAS suite in March 2025.
Skoda Compact SUV: Focus on Driving Dynamics
While Skoda's compact SUV may not initially boast the most extensive feature list, the brand aims to differentiate it through superior driving dynamics and manoeuvrability. Janeba emphasized that while the compact SUV might not have all the features from the start, Skoda is closely monitoring market trends and competitor offerings to ensure that its new model is competitive in terms of both packaging and pricing.
Skoda is gearing up to enhance its Kushaq and Slavia models with a series of updates including the addition of ADAS technology and other premium features. These updates along with the launch of the new compact SUV are part of Skoda's strategy to strengthen its position in the Indian market and offer vehicles that are both feature-rich and competitively priced.