Skoda-Volkswagen India has plans to introduce a new 8-speed torque converter automatic gearbox across its India 2.0 models – Kushaq, Slavia, Taigun and Virtus by 2026. The gearbox, sourced from Japanese supplier Aisin, will replace the existing 6-speed automatic unit (AQ250) currently offered with the 1.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine. This update is set to roll out approximately six to eight months after the mid-cycle updates scheduled for 2025.
The new gearbox, referred to as the AQ300, will mark a step forward in terms of efficiency and compliance with upcoming Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFÉ) III norms. While the current 6-speed gearbox is also Aisin-sourced, it is not locally produced in India. Skoda is actively exploring the localisation of the 8-speed unit, but low production volumes pose a challenge to the viability of this initiative.
Skoda’s brand director for India, Petr Janeba, highlighted the company’s approach to achieving economies of scale. Once they find the scale with the next-generation gearbox, they will invite other automakers to join the party to get it done in India.
To bolster the business case for local production, Skoda-Volkswagen is hoping that other automakers in India, such as Maruti-Suzuki and MG Motor India, which also use the AQ250 gearbox, will adopt the new AQ300 unit.
Beyond India, Aisin plans to produce the new gearbox in Brazil, leveraging economies of scale to make manufacturing more cost-effective. With rising demand for automatic transmissions globally, this additional volume from India could further enhance production efficiency.
The adoption of the new gearbox aligns with Skoda-Volkswagen’s strategy to meet the stringent CAFÉ III regulations set to take effect in India. The 8-speed gearbox features closer gear ratios, enabling smoother transitions and minimising fuel wastage during acceleration and deceleration. This contributes to better fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions, especially in standardised driving conditions.
While the exact timeline for the AQ300’s integration into the India 2.0 cars is still uncertain, it is unlikely to coincide with the 2025 facelifts. The new gearbox is expected to be introduced in 2026, marking a significant update for the Skoda-Volkswagen lineup.
This shift not only reflects a commitment to improved efficiency and regulatory compliance but also indicates a potential collaboration within the automotive industry to localise advanced technology in India.
