Upcoming Skoda Cars in India: Delays, High Stakes and Critical New Launches Ahead

Upcoming Skoda Cars in India: Facelifts, CNG Models, Premium Sedans and EVs

Upcoming Skoda cars in India include Kushaq and Slavia facelifts, Kylaq CNG, Superb diesel AWD and Skoda’s first electric vehicle. Here’s what to expect and when.


For a brand that once struggled to find its footing in India, Skoda has quietly entered a phase of stability. You don’t hear dramatic announcements or aggressive claims from the Czech carmaker anymore, but behind the scenes, something important is taking shape.

With five models currently on sale - Kylaq, Kushaq, Slavia, Octavia RS, and the latest-generation Kodiaq. Skoda India is now preparing for a multi-year expansion that could redefine its position in the market.

According to internal planning and ongoing road tests, five new launches are expected over the next few years. These will not be limited to mass-market updates. Instead, Skoda’s roadmap includes facelifts for its core models, a CNG option for its newest success story, a premium diesel sedan with all-wheel drive, and finally, its first electric vehicle for India.

Rather than chasing volume at any cost, Skoda seems to be playing the long game - refining what it already sells while carefully introducing new technologies and powertrains.

1.Kushaq Facelift

When the Kushaq debuted, it carried the weight of Skoda’s India 2.0 strategy. It had to be modern, safe, fun to drive, and locally relevant. It delivered on most of those counts, but the segment it operates in has moved fast since then.

That’s why Skoda has locked in a facelift launch for January 2026.
Test vehicles spotted on Indian roads suggest that the update will focus on visual freshness. 

The front end appears to get sharper detailing, revised lighting elements, and a more contemporary bumper design. New alloy wheels and subtle rear changes are also expected. Nothing radical, just enough to make the Kushaq feel current again.

Inside, the changes are expected to be more meaningful. Skoda is likely to revise cabin colours and trim materials, addressing one of the frequent feedback points from customers. 

More importantly, the facelift is expected to introduce advanced safety and comfort features that buyers now expect in this segment. Level 2 ADAS is almost certain, and features like a panoramic sunroof and enhanced rear-seat comfort are also being discussed.

What will not change is the mechanical setup. The familiar 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre TSI petrol engines will continue, along with their existing manual and automatic gearbox options. Skoda clearly believes these engines still deliver the right balance of performance and efficiency, and most owners would agree.

2.Slavia Facelift

The Slavia may not grab headlines the way SUVs do, but it has quietly built a strong reputation among buyers who still value driving feel and space over sheer road presence.
That said, even loyal customers expect updates, and Skoda knows this.

A facelifted Slavia is currently undergoing testing in India, and its launch is expected to follow the Kushaq update.
Unlike some facelifts that dramatically alter a car’s identity, the Slavia’s refresh will be restrained. Revised bumpers, updated headlamp internals, and fresh wheel designs should be part of the package. The bigger change will again be on the feature front. 

Level 2 ADAS is expected to make its way into the sedan, reinforcing Skoda’s strong safety positioning.

Mechanically, the Slavia will remain unchanged. The 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engines will continue, as will the choice of manual, torque converter automatic, and DSG gearboxes. For existing owners, this continuity is reassuring. For new buyers, it keeps the Slavia familiar and proven.

3.Kylaq CNG: Responding to Real-World Demand

If there is one model Skoda did not expect to succeed as quickly as it did, it’s the Kylaq. Launched in November 2024, the compact SUV struck a chord almost immediately.

Buyers appreciated its solid build, engaging drive, and straightforward value proposition.
With demand remaining strong, Skoda is now preparing a CNG version of the Kylaq.
This move is less about trend-following and more about practicality. 

Rising fuel costs have pushed many buyers toward CNG, especially in urban markets. By offering a factory-fitted CNG option, Skoda can attract customers who may have otherwise looked elsewhere.

The existing 1.0-litre TSI engine, which produces 112hp and 178Nm, is expected to be adapted for CNG use. Importantly, Skoda has prior experience with CNG powertrains in international markets, where models like the Octavia and Scala are sold with factory-integrated systems.

Positioned at the lower end of the Kylaq range, the CNG variant could become a volume driver for the brand.

Superb Diesel AWD

The Skoda Superb has always occupied a special place in the Indian market. It’s the car many aspire to own once they move beyond mainstream sedans. Now, Skoda is preparing to bring back the Superb in a form that enthusiasts have long wanted.

An all-wheel-drive Superb, powered by a diesel engine, has been spotted testing repeatedly. The diesel version was also showcased earlier this year, reigniting interest among long-time fans.

Expected to arrive in 2026, this will be the fourth-generation Superb, imported as a CBU. Built on the MQB Evo platform, it will feature a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 188hp and 400Nm, paired with a 7-speed DSG transmission. A front-wheel-drive variant with slightly lower output is also expected.

This will be the first time an AWD Superb is officially sold in India, and it sends a clear message: Skoda is still committed to premium sedans.

4.Skoda’s EV Entry: Elroq or Enyaq iV?

Electric vehicles are no longer optional, especially with CAFE 3 norms coming into effect in 2027. Skoda has acknowledged this reality and confirmed that EVs are part of its India strategy.

Two models are under consideration: the Enyaq iV, which has already been spotted testing in India, and the Elroq, a newer and potentially more accessible electric SUV. Both are based on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform.

Given regulatory timelines, industry sources expect Skoda’s first EV to arrive in 2026, allowing the company to build sales volume ahead of the compliance deadline.

How These Launches Shape Skoda’s India Strategy?

Taken together, these upcoming launches show a brand that has learned from past mistakes. Skoda is no longer trying to do everything at once. Instead, it is updating proven products, expanding fuel choices, reintroducing aspirational models, and preparing for an electric future - all at a measured pace.

If execution matches intent, this phase could well be Skoda India’s most confident and consistent yet.

Official Skoda India

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