The sedan market in India currently holds a relatively small share compared to its heyday when sedans followed hatchbacks as the favored choice among Indian consumers. Despite the overwhelming preference for SUVs, sedans still retain their appeal when it comes to driving experiences. In this context, let's delve into our first impressions of the Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI after our initial test drive.
Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI Exterior
The Skoda Slavia boasts a striking and muscular design, in line with Skoda's signature style. It's evident that the Slavia draws inspiration from its elder sibling, the Octavia. The front grille, in particular, stands out and grabs attention. Equipped with projector headlamps featuring LED technology, the Slavia exudes a stellar visual presence.
Skoda Slavia's design manages to captivate more than the new Verna, making it a worthy choice for those who value aesthetics. While some may reminisce about the Rapid, rest assured that the Slavia carries forward the DNA of its predecessor.
Choosing between the Skoda Slavia and the Volkswagen Virtus is a tough call, as both sedans boast captivating designs. Skoda has adopted a new rear logo, and the taillamps contribute to the car's overall stylish appearance.
Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI Interior
The interior of the Skoda Slavia surpasses that of the Volkswagen Virtus, particularly with its two-spoke steering wheel. While it was disappointing to see the discontinuation of the 10-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the Anniversary edition of the Slavia reintroduces the same screen. We tested the 8-inch unit on the style variant, and it delivered exceptional responsiveness.
The air conditioning system in the Slavia proves powerful and efficient at cooling the cabin, which is particularly appreciated during scorching summers. Skoda also offers ventilated seats that work effectively to keep occupants comfortable.
For those in search of a spacious rear cabin, the Slavia delivers with ample space and large windows that prevent a claustrophobic feel. Music enthusiasts will also appreciate the sound system, providing phenomenal audio quality.
Slavia 1.5 DSG Drive Impressions
Driving the Slavia with the 1.5-litre TSI engine and DSG gearbox is an exhilarating experience. The cabin remains remarkably quiet, showcasing the excellent refinement of the 4-cylinder engine. When compared to the Verna, the Slavia exhibits better low-end grunt, thanks to the fast-shifting DSG gearbox. The DSG transmission operates smoothly, adding to the fun factor during city driving.
In terms of performance, the Slavia 1.5 petrol accelerates swiftly. Skoda includes paddle shifters that enhance the driving experience, allowing the driver to take manual control. However, it's worth noting that the 1.5-TSI engine prioritizes performance over fuel efficiency, as we observed around 9 km/l during our test drive.
Slavia 1.5 DSG Ride and Handling
The Skoda Slavia impresses with its well-rounded sedan attributes. It exhibits confident body control on the road, leaving drivers favorably biased. The steering feels light at lower speeds and doesn't understeer when pushed harder, providing better body control than the Verna's new generation. Minimal body roll is evident, thanks to the well-tuned suspension.
Braking performance is commendable, offering a reassuring response during hard braking maneuvers. Skoda's cars tend to leave a lasting impression, and the Slavia is no exception, offering a rewarding driving experience.
Safety Ratings
For those concerned about safety, the Skoda Slavia boasts a 5-star rating from Global NCAP. The car's build quality is notably robust, evident in the solid thud when closing the doors, surpassing many rivals in this aspect.
In conclusion, our first impressions of the Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI are positive. However, we recommend taking a test drive to form your own opinions about the 1.5-TSI engine and the overall driving experience. Making an informed decision is crucial when buying a new car.
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