5 Upcoming 8 Speed Skodas and Volkswagens: Kylaq To Virtus Facelift
The torque converter automatic has become one of the most popular gearbox options due to its smoothness and reliability. Now, Skoda Auto Volkswagen India is preparing a major update for its India lineup. The existing 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox is getting replaced with a new 8-speed AISIN (AQ300) automatic transmission, and here is the list of all the cars that will be getting this new gearbox.
The newly introduced 8-speed AISIN torque converter automatic gearbox will be offered with the time-tested 1.0-litre, three-cylinder TSI turbo petrol engine. This engine is capable of producing 114 bhp and 178 Nm of torque. The new 8-speed unit has been introduced to offer better fuel efficiency, smoother performance, and improved torque handling capacity (up to 300 Nm). Additionally, this new gearbox will also address some of the limitations seen with the existing AQ250 gearbox.
Volkswagen India recently unveiled the facelifted iteration of the Taigun SUV. Along with the major exterior design updates, the company has also updated the powertrain of this mid-size SUV. The new Taigun will now receive the new 8-speed automatic gearbox with the 1.0-litre TSI engine.
The rest of the powertrain options, including the 1.5-litre TSI with DSG, are expected to remain unchanged. The Taigun facelift's pricing will be revealed in the coming weeks. It is expected to be priced between Rs 11 lakh and Rs 19 lakh (ex-showroom). It will continue to rival SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra, new Renault Duster, and its cousin, the Skoda Kushaq facelift, along with others.
Along with the Taigun, Volkswagen will also introduce the facelifted Virtus sedan in India. Recently, a test mule of the Virtus facelift GT Line variant was spotted testing on public roads with camouflage on the front and rear. The Virtus shares its platform and powertrain options with the recently launched Skoda Kushaq facelift, Taigun facelift, and the Kylaq and Slavia.
Hence, it too will be getting the new 8-speed gearbox with the 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine. The Virtus will continue to offer the 1.5-litre TSI engine with DSG for performance-focused buyers. Apart from the mechanical changes, we will be seeing minor design changes, updated interiors, and new features. The launch is expected to take place in the coming months. As for the pricing, it will likely be in the range of Rs 12 lakh to Rs 18.5 lakh (ex-showroom). Once launched, it will rival the Honda City and Hyundai Verna, along with its cousin sibling, the Skoda Slavia.
Speaking of Virtus’ cousin, Slavia, the Czech carmaker is also working on the facelifted version of this sedan, which will be launched in the coming months. With this update, the Slavia, like the Virtus, will not only get cosmetic changes but also the new 8-speed automatic gearbox. The Slavia facelift is expected to launch later in 2026, around the festive season. Pricing will be in the range of Rs 12 lakh and Rs 18 lakh (ex-showroom).
The Kylaq sub-compact SUV, which is the best-selling Skoda currently in India, is also offered with the same 1.0-litre TSI engine. As a result, it too will soon be receiving the new 8-speed automatic gearbox. The Kylaq is positioned below the Skoda Kushaq and rivals the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue, and others.
The addition of the new gearbox will make the Kylaq a much more attractive option for buyers looking for a smooth and reliable automatic. The exact launch timeline has not been officially confirmed yet. However, it is expected to debut later this year. In terms of pricing, the Kylaq automatic could be priced between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom).
To replicate the success of the Kylaq, Volkswagen is also planning to enter the sub-4-metre SUV segment with a brand-new model. This upcoming SUV is expected to be based on Volkswagen Tera, which is sold in the Brazilian market, and will likely share its underpinnings with other MQB A0 IN platform cars such as the Kylaq and others mentioned above.
It will also offer the same 1.0-litre TSI engine and will also get the new 8-speed automatic gearbox, making it one of the most advanced options in the segment. The launch timeline is expected to be late 2026 or early 2027. In terms of pricing, it could be positioned between Rs 9 lakh and Rs 14 lakh (ex-showroom), making it Volkswagen’s most affordable SUV in India.