Skoda to Reintroduce Diesel Engines in India with the New Superb Luxury Sedan

Skoda India is making a big change by reintroducing diesel engines to its lineup again. The first car to get the diesel engine option will be the upcoming generation of the Superb sedan. This decision marks a surprising turn for Skoda India. In the past, they stopped offering diesel cars in India, believing that the world was moving away the diesel engines in favor of more environmentally friendly options.

Petr Janeba, Head of International Sales at Skoda Auto, confirmed the company’s plans during the announcement of their new compact SUV which is planned to be launched in March 2025. This change shows that Skoda is taking a realistic approach, recognizing that many Indian buyers, especially those interested in SUVs, still prefer diesel options.

By offering diesel variants, Skoda aims to broaden its appeal and cater to a wider range of customers, especially those seeking a balance between performance, efficiency and driving range.

The new-generation Superb which was unveiled globally in November 2023, comes with a diverse range of engine options across various markets. This includes three petrol, two diesel and a plug-in hybrid variant (PHEV).

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However, talking about the Indian market, Skoda plans to reintroduce the diesel engine through the Completely Built-Up (CBU) import route. By starting with imported diesel Superbs, Skoda can see how well they sell in India before deciding whether to make them here. The first batch of diesel-powered Superbs is expected to arrive in India later this year.

 

Skoda’s current lineup in India predominantly features petrol engines, with popular models like the Kushaq, Slavia and Kodiaq all of which equipped with 1.0L to 2.0L TSI units. However, the brand has a history of successful diesel models in the country. The previous generation Superb, along with the Laura and Octavia, were all equipped with TDI engines known for their fuel efficiency and powerful performance and a fun to drive nature.

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By reintroducing diesel engines, Skoda aims to tap into this specific market segment that still values the advantages of diesel powertrains. Diesel engines can offer superior fuel efficiency, especially on highway journeys, and often deliver a longer driving range on a single tank which makes long distance travelers attracted to diesel engines. While concerns regarding emissions remain, advancements in engine technology have significantly reduced emissions from modern diesel engines.

The success of this reintroduction strategy with the new Superb will be closely monitored by Skoda. Positive market response could pave the way for the expansion of diesel offerings to other models in the Indian portfolio. This would allow Skoda to compete more effectively in segments where diesel options remain popular, offering customers a wider range of choices based on their individual needs and preferences.