India’s mid-size car market is set for two important launches tomorrow, October 6, 2026. Honda will introduce the facelifted Elevate SUV, while Skoda will launch the updated Slavia sedan.

Both models are receiving design and feature upgrades rather than an entirely new platform. The Honda Elevate will continue to target SUV buyers, while the Skoda Slavia will appeal to customers who prefer a sedan with strong performance and a premium cabin.

Honda Elevate facelift features

Honda has opened pre-bookings for the new Elevate in India with a booking amount of Rs. 21,000. India will be the first market to receive this updated version as per Honda Cars India announcement.

The facelift is expected to receive a sharper front design, revised lighting elements and new alloy wheels. Honda is also preparing interior improvements, including a larger touchscreen infotainment system and ventilated front seats.

The existing 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine is expected to continue. It currently produces around 121hp and is available with a six-speed manual or a CVT automatic gearbox. The facelift is expected to retain this engine and transmission combination instead of introducing a turbo-petrol or hybrid powertrain.

The SUV should continue with Honda Sensing safety technology, which includes features such as lane-departure warning, collision mitigation braking and adaptive cruise control. The exact variant-wise features will be confirmed at launch.

Honda Elevate expected price

The current Elevate is positioned in the mid-size SUV segment against the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.

The facelift is expected to start at around Rs. 12 lakh, ex-showroom. Higher variants with automatic transmission and additional equipment could move closer to Rs. 20 lakh.

The Elevate may suit families who want a spacious SUV, a comfortable driving position and Honda’s reputation for reliability. However, buyers looking for strong hybrid mileage or a turbocharged driving experience may find other rivals more attractive.

Skoda Slavia facelift features

The Slavia facelift will bring several important changes to Skoda’s popular sedan. The exterior gets redesigned LED headlamps and tail-lamps, sequential turn indicators, new alloy wheels and revised styling details.

Inside, the car is expected to offer a refreshed cabin, a newer infotainment system and improved rear-seat comfort. One of the biggest additions is a rear-seat massage function, which is unusual in this price segment.

Skoda is also adding a 360-degree camera system and front parking sensors. The updated infotainment system will support wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with an AI Companion powered by Google Cloud as per Skoda Auto India announcement.

Engines and new automatic gearbox

The Slavia will continue with two turbo-petrol engines. The 1.0-litre TSI produces around 115hp and 178Nm, while the 1.5-litre TSI makes approximately 150hp and 250Nm.

The smaller engine will now be available with a new eight-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox. The 1.5-litre version will continue with a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as per Autocar India report.

The Slavia will also continue to carry its five-star Global NCAP safety credentials, along with six airbags and other active and passive safety equipment.

Skoda Slavia expected price

The updated Slavia is expected to be priced between Rs. 10.25 lakh and Rs. 18.75 lakh, ex-showroom. The main competitors will include the Hyundai Verna, Volkswagen Virtus and Honda City.

The sedan could be a strong choice for buyers who enjoy driving and want better highway performance. Its 1.5-litre turbo engine should appeal to enthusiasts, while the new 1.0-litre automatic may make the car more convenient for city use.

Conclusion with key takeaways

The Honda Elevate facelift and Skoda Slavia facelift offer two different approaches. Honda is focusing on SUV comfort and styling, while Skoda is adding technology, rear-seat comfort and a new automatic gearbox to its sedan.

Key takeaways-

• Both cars launch in India on October 6, 2026.
• Honda Elevate facelift retains the 1.5-litre petrol engine.
• Elevate updates may include ventilated seats and a larger touchscreen.
• Skoda Slavia gets revised styling, rear-seat massage and a 360-degree camera.
• The Slavia adds an eight-speed automatic gearbox with the 1.0-litre TSI engine.
• Final prices and variant-wise equipment will be announced at launch.

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