After a significant 2025 showcasing the new Kodiaq and Octavia RS, Skoda India is shifting its focus to the heart of the market. The coming year is poised to be a major refresh cycle, with substantial updates planned for its volume-selling models, the Kushaq and Slavia, alongside the potential introduction of all-electric vehicles. This strategic move aims to bolster Skoda’s competitive edge in India’s most hotly contested segments.
The Skoda Kushaq facelift, expected in early 2026, is gearing up for a comprehensive enhancement. While recent spy shots hint at refined front and rear styling—potentially with modern full-width LED lighting—the most compelling changes are anticipated inside and under the skin. Skoda is reportedly addressing earlier feedback, with significant improvements to air conditioning performance and the likely addition of a panoramic sunroof.
Where the update truly aims to stand out, however, is in technology and safety. The Kushaq is expected to introduce a segment-first rear-seat massage function and receive new-generation graphics for its digital displays. Crucially, it is set to make a substantial safety leap with the introduction of Level 2 ADAS and all-wheel disc brakes for the more powerful variants. Powertrains should remain the trusted 1.0L and 1.5L TSI petrol units, but a welcome upgrade from the 6-speed to an 8-speed torque-converter automatic transmission is strongly on the cards.
Following the Kushaq, the Skoda Slavia sedan is scheduled for its own rejuvenation later in 2026. Its arrival is well-timed, coinciding with updates for key rivals like the Honda City and Hyundai Verna. Visually, the changes will likely be evolutionary, focusing on elements like lighting clusters and alloy wheels rather than major sheet metal alterations.
The Slavia’s update, however, is expected to be more than skin-deep. Mirroring its SUV sibling, it should benefit from updated cabin tech and, most importantly, the addition of an ADAS suite. This would be a critical move to match rivals and elevate its safety credentials. Mechanically, the highlight could be the same transmission upgrade—an 8-speed automatic for the 1.0-litre TSI variant—promising smoother and more efficient performance.
Looking beyond internal combustion, 2026 might also mark Skoda’s decisive entry into India’s electric vehicle space with the Skoda Elroq. While yet to be officially confirmed, this compact electric SUV, built on Volkswagen Group’s dedicated MEB platform, is a strong candidate. Competing with the likes of the Hyundai Ioniq 5, it promises a blend of sharp, modern design, a spacious interior courtesy of its long wheelbase, and a tech-heavy cabin featuring a large 13-inch touchscreen and comprehensive ADAS.
In European spec, the Elroq offers multiple battery options, with the long-range variant capable of up to 560 km on a single charge. If launched, its introduction would signal Skoda’s commitment to a diversified electric future in India, offering a practical, feature-rich alternative in the growing premium EV segment.
Overall, Skoda’s 2026 roadmap for India reflects a balanced strategy: substantially refreshing its core, high-volume models with meaningful feature and safety upgrades while cautiously testing the waters for its global electric offerings. For customers, this means more advanced, competitive, and choice-rich options from the Czech brand.
