Skoda Auto India is gearing up for a significant comeback of diesel engines after nearly five years. The Czech automaker showcased its first diesel offering at the Bharat Mobility Show, featuring the new-generation Superb 4X4 with a robust 2.0-liter diesel engine delivering 193hp and 400Nm of torque. The Superb is expected to lead Skoda’s diesel resurgence, with other models like the Kodiaq potentially following suit in the near future.
According to Petr Janeba, Head of Skoda India, the decision is driven by customer demand. “Diesel engines accounted for up to 80% of our sales earlier, and there is still strong interest today,” he noted. Diesel-powered vehicles remain popular in India, contributing significantly to sales for brands such as Hyundai, Kia, Tata, and Mahindra, as well as luxury automakers like Mercedes-Benz and BMW. Positioned between the premium and executive segments, Skoda sees the revival of diesel as a strategic move to meet market needs.
Diesel engines have historically been a cornerstone of Skoda’s success in India. The brand’s early models, like the first-generation Octavia, Superb, and Rapid, were celebrated for their fuel efficiency and torque, making them favorites among Indian customers seeking low running costs and high performance.
This return also marks a notable shift for the Volkswagen Group, Skoda’s parent company, which faced scrutiny during the “Dieselgate” scandal over emissions discrepancies. The group’s reintroduction of diesel engines suggests confidence in newer, cleaner technologies that comply with stringent regulations.
Notably, efficient diesel engines could also support Skoda’s sustainability goals by reducing CO2 emissions, a key contributor to global warming. Cars are estimated to account for 5-7% of global CO2 emissions, and advanced diesel technology could help mitigate this impact.
Skoda’s move to reintroduce diesel is not just a response to customer preferences but also a strategic step to strengthen its foothold in a competitive market segment.
Read More: