Skoda Slavia 1.0 AT or 1.5 DSG: which is the better highway car?

I’ve shortlisted the Skoda Slavia, but I’m confused between the 1.0 AT and 1.5 DSG, since the price difference between them is around Rs 3 lakh. I’ve only test driven the 1.0 TSI AT within the city, but I want to know whether it feels underpowered on the highway as we plan to do a lot of long-distance driving? Also, is it worth stretching for the 1.5-litre engine instead? And what will the fuel efficiency be like?

Salvius, Mumbai

Autocar India says: The 1.0 TSI paired to the 6-speed torque converter isn’t the best configuration in the Slavia range due to the gearbox’s early upshifting nature. The engine’s lag below 1,800 rpm also makes it feel sluggish at low speeds. On the open road, however, when the engine is on the boil, performance feels more than capable. The 1.5 DSG, on the other hand, feels far more effortless right from the get go, be it while ambling around in the city or overtaking/cruising on the highway. The 1.0 AT will be more efficient in the city, but the 1.5 DSG’s active cylinder deactivation technology helps extract better fuel efficiency on the highway. Yes, Rs 3 lakh over the 1.0-litre engine is a substantial ask for the 1.5, however, for its effortlessness and for the sheer driving pleasure it delivers, it feels well worth the premium.

Also see:

Skoda Slavia 1.0 TSI review: Solid, safe and comfortable new sedan

2022 Skoda Slavia 1.0 TSI video review

Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI review: India’s most powerful midsize sedan

2022 Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI video review