Video: Skoda Unveils Slavia Facelift, Superb Diesel, Plans CNG & EV - Ashish Gupta

Skoda Auto India has launched the facelifted Slavia, reinforcing its commitment to the premium sedan space even as utility vehicles dominate consumer demand. In this conversation with Autocar Professional, Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, explains how the updated Slavia aims to protect and expand the brand's 30% segment share with refreshed styling, class-leading dynamics, and higher ground clearance.

With the Slavia facelift, Skoda is targeting a 25% to 30% growth in its monthly volumes by broadening its appeal to executive and enthusiast buyers alike. Gupta outlines why sedans remain central to Skoda's brand identity, the growth outlook for the overall passenger vehicle industry toward a 5-million-unit year, and the company's projected 8% to 10% annual growth.

The discussion also delves into Skoda's powertrain diversification plans amid shifting fuel economics, including a strong push for CNG on models like the Kylaq, the planned reintroduction of the Superb diesel through expressions of interest, and the strategy to import global electric vehicles like the Elroq and Epiq ahead of local EV manufacturing.

Watch the full conversation here.