Skoda India has prioritized safety for its popular mid-size sedan, Slavia, and mid-size SUV, Kushaq, by making six airbags standard across all variants. This significant upgrade comes with a slight price increase but offers enhanced occupant protection in the event of a collision. Let’s delve deeper into the details of this update and explore the impact on pricing.
Enhanced Safety with Six Airbags Now Standard
Previously, only the top-spec Style variants of both Slavia and Kushaq boasted six airbags. Now, all trims – Active, Ambition, and Style – benefit from this crucial safety equipment. This includes:
- Dual front airbags for the driver and passenger
- Side airbags for the front seats
- Curtain airbags running along the length of the cabin
These additional airbags provide vital protection for occupants in side-impact collisions and rollovers, significantly improving overall safety.
Impact on Prices Due to Safety Upgrade
While the addition of six airbags is a welcome change, it does come with a price increase. Here’s a breakdown of the revised pricing for both Skoda Slavia and Kushaq:
Skoda Slavia Price Revision (Ex-showroom Delhi):
| Variant | Old Price (₹) | New Price (₹) | Price Difference (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0L Turbo-petrol Manual Active | 11,53,000 | 11,63,000 | +10,000 |
| 1.0L Turbo-petrol Manual Ambition | 13,43,000 | 13,78,000 | +35,000 |
| 1.0L Turbo-petrol Automatic Ambition | 14,73,000 | 15,08,000 | +35,000 |
(All other variants of Slavia remain unchanged)
Skoda Kushaq Price Revision (Ex-showroom Delhi):
| Variant | Old Price (₹) | New Price (₹) | Price Difference (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0L Turbo-petrol Manual Active | 11,89,000 | 11,99,000 | +10,000 |
| 1.0L Turbo-petrol Manual Onyx | 12,79,000 | 12,89,000 | +10,000 |
| 1.0L Turbo-petrol Automatic Ambition | 15,49,000 | 15,84,000 | +35,000 |
(All other variants of Kushaq remain unchanged)
The price hike is concentrated on the base-spec Active and mid-spec Ambition variants, with an increase of ₹10,000 and ₹35,000 respectively. The top-spec Style variants, which already had six airbags, maintain their previous pricing.
Why Six Airbags Are Important
Airbags are critical safety features that deploy rapidly during a collision to cushion occupants and minimize injuries. Having six airbags offers a more comprehensive layer of protection compared to the two airbags typically found in base-spec variants.
Here’s a breakdown of the specific benefits:
Dual Front Airbags: These airbags absorb the impact of the driver and passenger’s upper body during a head-on collision.
Side Airbags: These airbags provide crucial protection for the chest and torso in side-impact crashes.
Curtain Airbags: These deploy along the roof and side pillars, safeguarding occupants’ heads from injuries during rollovers or side impacts.
The inclusion of six airbags significantly enhances the safety quotient of both Skoda Slavia and Kushaq, making them more competitive in the Indian market where safety ratings are gaining increasing importance.
Other Safety Features on Skoda Slavia and Kushaq
Beyond the upgraded airbag system, both Skoda Slavia and Kushaq boast a range of additional safety features, including:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Hill Hold Assist: This system helps maintain vehicle stability during sharp turns and prevents rolling back on inclines.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): This system alerts drivers to underinflated tires, ensuring optimal handling and preventing blowouts.
Rear-view Camera: This camera provides a clear view of the rear while reversing, aiding parking maneuvers and reducing the risk of collisions.
These features, combined with the high-strength steel body structure, further bolster the safety credentials of both Skoda vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: By how much has the price increased for the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq?
A: The price increase is concentrated on the base-spec Active and mid-spec Ambition variants. The Active variants see a ₹10,000 hike, while the Ambition variants become ₹35,000 more expensive. The top-spec Style variants maintain their previous pricing.
Q: Are there any other safety features included in the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq?
A: Yes, both vehicles come equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Hill Hold Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and a rear-view camera, further enhancing overall safety.
Q: How do the Slavia and Kushaq compare to their competitors in terms of safety?
A: By making six airbags standard across all variants, Skoda positions itself competitively. While some rivals offer six airbags as standard, others only provide them as an option on higher trims.
Q: Is the addition of six airbags worth the price increase?
A: The decision ultimately depends on individual priorities. However, considering the significant role airbags play in mitigating injuries during a collision, many would argue that the enhanced safety is well worth the price bump.
