The Indian automotive market has been growing at a rapid pace, with more and more car manufacturers trying to establish their presence in the country. Skoda Auto India, with its over two decades of brand presence in the country, has been striving to revive the brand to its former glory in the Indian market. And with the launch of the 1.5L TSI engine in the Ambition trim of its popular Slavia and Kushaq models, the company has taken another step forward in achieving that goal.
Upgraded to Meet Stage 2 BS6 (RDE) Norms
Both the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq models are based on the India-specific MQB A0 IN platform. Skoda has upgraded them to meet the Stage 2 BS6 (RDE) norms, making them E20 compliant. These changes have made the cars about 7 percent more fuel-efficient, which is a significant advantage for cost-conscious buyers.
1.5L TSI Engine: Power, Torque, Technology, and Efficiency
The introduction of the 1.5L TSI engine to the Ambition trim of the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq models is a significant move. The engine is known globally for its power, torque, technology, and efficiency. It produces 147.51 bhp and 250 Nm of torque, making it a potent powertrain for both models.
TSI engines were first introduced in India in the legendary Skoda Octavia VRS in the early 2000s and have been a favorite of auto enthusiasts ever since. The introduction of this engine in the Ambition trim of the Slavia and Kushaq models is likely to be well-received by Indian car enthusiasts who are looking for a potent powertrain that delivers both power and efficiency.
Dual-Tone Paint Scheme
To make their offering even more appealing, Skoda is now providing a Dual-Tone paint option with the Ambition trim of both the Slavia and Kushaq cars. In addition to the existing colors, the Slavia Ambition is now available in Crystal Blue with a black roof and Carbon Steel with a silver roof. Similarly, the Kushaq Ambition is available for purchase in either Honey Orange with a black roof or Carbon Steel with a silver roof.
Lower Price Point
The availability of the engine in the Ambition trim at a lower price point makes these cars a very interesting proposition in the market compared to their competitors. The entry to the 1.5L TSI in Slavia Ambition MT now starts at Rs 14.94 lakh, while the entry to 1.5L TSI in Kushaq Ambition MT starts at Rs 14.99 lakh.
Skoda's 'Accelerated Growth' Strategy
Skoda Auto India has introduced the 1.5L TSI engine in the Ambition trim of its Slavia and Kushaq models as part of its ‘Accelerated Growth’ strategy for 2023 and beyond. Petr Solc, the Brand Director of SKODA AUTO India, commented that Skoda has always appealed to customers who value a car’s safety and driving dynamics. In response to customer demand and feedback, the company has decided to introduce this advanced engine with Active Cylinder-Technology and plasma-coated cylinder liners in its best-selling trim for the Kushaq and Slavia. As both cars are crucial volume drivers for the company, they will play a vital role in Skoda’s ‘Accelerated Growth’ strategy for 2023 and beyond.
Reviving Skoda's Brand in the Indian Market
Skoda Auto India has been working towards reviving its brand’s former glory in the Indian market. The launch of these two products brings the company one step closer to achieving this goal. As the new financial year begins, competition in the Indian automotive market is expected to be more intense. Skoda Auto India has been present in the country for over two decades and is renowned for catering to enthusiasts. The company has now introduced another exciting product to satisfy the auto enthusiasts in the country.
FAQ
1. What is the Skoda Kushaq Ambition's starting price with the 1.5L TSI engine?
- The entry to the 1.5L TSI in Kushaq Ambition MT starts at Rs 14.99 lakh.
2. What is the Skoda Slavia Ambition's starting price with the 1.5L TSI engine?
- The entry to the 1.5L TSI in Slavia Ambition MT now starts at Rs 14.94 lakh.
3. What are the upgrades made to the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq models?
- Skoda has upgraded them to meet the Stage 2 BS6 (RDE) norms, making them E20 compliant, and more fuel-efficient.
4. What is the power and torque output of the 1.5L TSI engine?
- The 1.5L TSI engine generates a power output of 147.51 bhp and a torque of 250 Nm.
5. What is Skoda's 'Accelerated Growth' strategy?
- Skoda's 'Accelerated Growth' strategy is aimed at expanding the company's market share in India and increasing sales volume.