Saturday, May 18

Skoda Raises The Safety Bar: Kushaq And Slavia Now Standard With 6 Airbags

Written by S Das

Skoda has taken a significant stride in enhancing safety across its lineup by announcing the inclusion of six airbags as standard in both the Kushaq and Slavia models. These vehicles, locally manufactured in India at Skoda‘s Aurangabad facility in Maharashtra, have already earned stellar accolades for their safety performance, boasting a perfect 5-star rating from Global NCAP.

The decision to equip all variants of the Kushaq and Slavia with six airbags underscores Skoda’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing safety in its vehicles. This move is particularly noteworthy as it aims to elevate the safety standards of Indian-made cars, placing both models at the forefront of safety in the domestic automotive market.

Notably, the Kushaq and Slavia, alongside their German counterparts—the Taigun and Virtus—stand out as some of the safest cars produced in India. With the addition of six airbags as standard, Skoda anticipates further bolstering the crash test performance of these models, building upon their already impressive track record at Global NCAP.

Skoda continuously updates its vehicles to incorporate the latest advancements in safety and technology. In December 2023, the carmaker introduced segment-first electric seats, further enhancing the comfort and convenience features of the Kushaq and Slavia.

In terms of features and specifications, both the Kushaq and Slavia offer a comprehensive array of amenities. Drivers can expect an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, powered front seats, and an illuminated footwell, among other conveniences. Entertainment and connectivity are provided through a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system paired with a 6-speaker sound system and wireless phone charging capability.

Safety features extend beyond airbags to include electronic stability control (ESC) and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), ensuring a secure and confident driving experience. Additionally, a rear-view camera enhances visibility and maneuverability, especially in tight spaces.

Under the hood, both the Kushaq and Slavia are powered by turbocharged petrol engines, offering two options—a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder unit and a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder unit. These engines deliver impressive performance, with power outputs ranging from 114 bhp to 148 bhp, coupled with robust torque figures. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard, with the option of a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox, catering to diverse driving preferences.

The inclusion of six airbags as standard in the Skoda Kushaq and Slavia represents a significant milestone in enhancing safety standards in the Indian automotive landscape. Coupled with their advanced features and dynamic performance, these models reaffirm Skoda’s position as a leader in delivering quality, safety, and innovation to discerning customers.