Skoda Slavia and Kushaq 1.5 manual variants discontinued, only DSG on offer
In a move that may surprise automotive enthusiasts, Skoda has discontinued the manual transmission variants of the 1.5L EVO TSI engine for Slavia and Kushaq. This development limits buyers who favour the performance-oriented 1.5L engine to only the automatic DSG option.
A Shift in Skoda’s India 2.0 Strategy
The Slavia and Kushaq, both built on the MQB A0 IN platform, have been pivotal to Skoda’s growth in India under the brand’s India 2.0 strategy. These models, alongside Volkswagen’s Taigun and Virtus, have given buyers access to modern design and advanced engineering tailored to the Indian market. The 1.5L EVO TSI engine, known for its power output of 148 BHP and peak torque of 250 Nm, has been a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking a more thrilling driving experience.
However, Skoda’s decision to remove the manual transmission option for this engine has sparked mixed reactions. Manual gearboxes are often preferred by driving purists who enjoy greater control over their vehicle’s performance. With this change, the 7-speed DSG becomes the sole transmission option for the 1.5L engine, while the 1.0L TSI engine continues to offer both manual and automatic variants.
Impact on Buyers and Market Dynamics
This move could force some potential buyers to reconsider their options, as the automatic DSG variants come with a higher price tag. Customers who are looking for a manual transmission paired with the powerful 1.5L engine may now gravitate toward Volkswagen’s Virtus or Taigun, which still offer the 1.5L EVO TSI MT combination.
Skoda’s decision could have a significant impact on its sales figures, especially in comparison to Volkswagen, which saw higher monthly sales in August 2024 with around 3600 units compared to Skoda’s 2800 units. Discontinuing a popular configuration might help Volkswagen boost its market share further, especially among buyers looking for a combination of affordability and performance.
Looking Ahead: New Editions for the Festive Season
Despite this shift, Skoda remains optimistic about its prospects in the Indian market. The recent launch of the Slavia Monte Carlo and Sportline Editions is expected to attract new buyers during the upcoming festive season. Both editions, however, also lack the 1.5L EVO TSI MT option, signalling Skoda’s intention to focus on its automatic offerings.
For those still interested in manual transmissions, the 1.0L TSI engine, which produces 114 BHP and 178 Nm of torque, is available with both manual and automatic gearbox options.
Skoda’s discontinuation of the 1.5L EVO TSI manual transmission for the Slavia and Kushaq is a strategic move that may have both positive and negative consequences. While it aligns with the global trend towards automatic gearboxes, it may alienate a section of driving enthusiasts who value the hands-on experience of a manual gearbox. However, with new editions and the continued availability of the 1.0L TSI engine, Skoda remains committed to offering a range of options for Indian buyers.
