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The Indian alliances of Czech carmaker Skoda and the German carmaker Volkswagen have recalled more than 47,000 units of their made-in-India vehicles. According to reports the massive recall by both the automakers has been made due to an error in the rear seatbelt system of their vehicles. The recall affects five popular models: Skoda Kylaq, Slavia, and Kushaq, along with the Volkswagen Taigun and Virtus. 

 

 

According to information filed with the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), the recall was initiated after an issue was detected in the rear seatbelt buckle latch plate and the seatbelt assembly. The issue, if left unaddressed, could lead to failure during a frontal collision, posing a significant safety risk to rear-seat passengers. Reports reveal that a total of 25,722 Skoda vehicles, including the Kushaq, Slavia, and newly launched Kylaq, manufactured between May 24, 2024, and April 1, 2025, are affected. Meanwhile, the same problem was found in 21,513 units of the Volkswagen Taigun and Virtus manufactured during the same period. All the vehicles were built at SAVWIPL’s facility in Chakan, Maharashtra, for both domestic sales and export markets.

 

In a statement issued by Skoda Auto India the identified defect involves the possibility of the rear seatbelt latch plate breaking under impact, while the webbing of the rear centre seatbelt and the buckle of the rear right seatbelt may also fail. The company sources said that the defect was detected as part of an ongoing internal quality assessment. In an official statement made by the sources of SAVWIPL, “As a part of the Group's commitment to customers, to maintain the highest standard of Safety and Quality, Škoda Auto Volkswagen India is conducting a recall… to address a potential seatbelt concern,”. The automaker confirmed that its authorised service centres are already contacting affected customers to carry out free-of-charge repairs or replacements.

 

Fortunately, no injuries or incidents related to the defect have been reported so far, SAVWIPL has asked vehicle owners to check their vehicle’s recall status by entering the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the recall pages of Skoda or Volkswagen India websites. Customers can also directly contact authorised service centres for verification and necessary action. The Skoda Kylaq, Slavia, and Kushaq, along with the Volkswagen Taigun and Virtus, are all powered by the 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. All models except the Kylaq are also available with a 1.5-litre TSI engine, paired with manual and automatic transmissions. The Kylaq, which is the latest addition to Skoda’s India lineup, began deliveries in January 2025. An official announcement regarding this recall from Skoda Indian and Volkswagen India is yet to come.