KOCHI: For any petrolhead, burning rubber on the Buddh International Circuit in Delhi is the stuff of joie de vivre. I recently had the exhilarating opportunity to experience just that, thanks to Škoda.
Let me take you through the thrills of a day spent behind the wheel of the Slavia Monte Carlo edition.
Why the Buddh International Circuit?
The Buddh International Circuit, or BIC, is India’s premier motor racing circuit, located in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Named after Gautama Buddha, the track spans 5.125 km and was inaugurated on 18 October 2011. Most famously, it hosted the Formula One Indian Grand Prix from 2011 to 2014.
Nowadays, car manufacturers host track days at BIC, offering enthusiasts a chance to push their vehicles to the limit in a safe, controlled environment. These events allow drivers to fully experience a car’s acceleration, handling, and braking — capabilities that simply can’t be explored on public roads.
What’s the Monte Carlo buzz?
Škoda, a brand under the VW group, has made waves in India with its popular Kushaq SUV and Slavia sedan, both built on a mid-size car platform. Now, to celebrate its 112-year anniversary of competing in the legendary Rallye Monte Carlo, Škoda India took the Slavia to the BIC to launch the Monte Carlo.
It’s important to note that the Monte Carlo edition doesn’t come with technical upgrades, but only cosmetic enhancements that give the car a sportier look. The Monte Carlo version features a blacked-out grille, ORVMs, alloy wheels, and roof, along with an all-black interior accented by red inserts on the dashboard, upholstery, and displays.
The result is a car that looks every bit as dynamic as it feels on the track.
Revving it up
The Škoda Slavia Monte Carlo comes equipped with the reliable 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engines. I drove the 1.5-litre model with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (DSG) transmission, offering a robust 150 PS of power and 250 Nm of torque.
My first lap around the track was as a passenger, with an instructor at the wheel. Helmets on, we raced through the circuit as the instructor explained the nuances of the track and how the car handled the more challenging stretches.
Once I took the driver’s seat, the Slavia didn’t disappoint. I reached a thrilling 175 km/h, with the car maintaining perfect control at every turn. The precision of the steering, combined with the electronic stability programme, ensured I could confidently tackle sharp corners and straightaways alike.
Beyond the track, we tested the car in a series of dynamic challenges. The Slalom test, where I manoeuvred through a zigzag course of cones, showed off the car’s nimble handling and stability.
The Autocross Test required precise navigation around a cone-defined course, and the Moose Test involved sudden obstacles, testing the car’s ability to react quickly.
The verdict?
My conclusion was simple: the Škoda Slavia is an exceptional sedan, even without the Monte Carlo makeover. With each test, I grew fonder of the machine. And the new sporty upgrade, though only cosmetic in nature, ups its spunk factor. It’s not a racing car, but it performs remarkably well in everyday driving scenarios, offering a balance of power, control, and style. Whether on the track or the road, this sedan is sure to impress. It’s a dasher.
The Škoda Slavia Monte Carlo is priced (ex-showroom) at Rs 15.79 lakh (1.0-litre manual), Rs 16.89 lakh (1.0-litre automatic), and Rs 18.49 lakh (1.5-litre dual-clutch automatic).
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