Skoda's New Diesel Car Coming to India in 2024

Key Highlights:

• Skoda plans a diesel comeback in India with the 2024 Superb.
• Focus on larger sedans over SUVs.
• Limited CBU imports, around 1,000 units are expected.
• The diesel variant alongside the petrol version is uncertain.
• Superb boasts advanced features and diverse powertrains.

In a surprising move, Skoda Auto is gearing up to reintroduce diesel engines in India, marking a departure from its recent focus on an all-petrol lineup. Petr Janeba, Skoda’s Head of International Sales, revealed that the company is actively working on a plan to reintroduce diesel engines in specific Skoda vehicles. Despite the prevailing trend of petrol-driven vehicles in India due to strict emission regulations, the demand for diesel-powered options persists, particularly in larger MPVs and SUVs.

Diesel for the Superb, Not the Kodiaq

In a strategic decision, Skoda is not reintroducing diesel engines with its popular Kodiaq SUV. Petr Janeba clarified that the emphasis is on bringing back diesel engine options exclusively for the new generation Skoda Superb sedan. Last year, Skoda India discontinued the Superb and Octavia models as part of the transition to BS6 Phase II, focusing on meeting real driving emissions standards and fuel compatibility requirements.

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Next Gen Skoda Superb on the Horizon

Rumors circulated about the possible reintroduction of the Superb sedan to the Indian market through the CBU (Completely Built-Up) route. This strategy aims to bypass the expensive process of homologating the vehicle in India, allowing Skoda to import smaller volumes. Petr Janeba's confirmation strengthens these speculations, revealing plans to bring the diesel variant of the Superb sedan to India. It is anticipated that approximately 1,000 units of the Superb diesel will be imported, though the inclusion of a petrol-powered Superb remains uncertain.

Features of the 2024 Superb

The 2024 Superb, which debuted globally in November 2023, is available in both sedan and Combi estate models. Boasting a redesigned exterior and interior, the sedan offers a spacious 645L boot, LED Matrix beam headlights, a 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10-inch digital cluster, real leather upholstery, and 28 "simply clever" features. The powertrain options for the Superb sedan include two mild hybrids and the return of the 2.0L TDi diesel with various configurations. The Superb Combi estate, on the other hand, features a 1.5L PHEV powertrain with an impressive claimed range of 100 km from a single charge.

CarBike360 Says

Skoda's strategic decision to reintroduce diesel with the 2024 Superb in India marks a departure from the all-petrol trend. With 1,000 units anticipated via the CBU route, the move aligns with the persistent demand for diesel in larger vehicles. The Superb, equipped with advanced features, signifies Skoda's commitment to diverse powertrain options.