Hitting the Apex: Driving Skoda Slavia Monte Carlo at Buddh International Circuit

I am used to wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle, but this was my first-time experiencing the thrill of wearing one while driving a car. Such an opportunity only arises when you visit a race track. Recently, I had the privilege of doing just that at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC), India's only Formula 1 and MotoGP racetrack, during a Skoda Track Day event. The event showcased the new Slavia Monte Carlo alongside the Kushaq Sportline and Slavia Sportline. While I had visited a few race tracks before, I had never driven a car on a circuit. So, I was absolutely ecstatic to take a few laps around the empty track.

Track Experience

Skoda had planned the launch of the Slavia Monte Carlo on 2 September, 2024, along with a few laps at the track. Additionally, there were slalom, autocross, and moose tests. All participants were divided into two groups, and my teammate Tuhin and I started with the track laps. Each of us had two laps in the Skoda Slavia Monte Carlo, guided by an instructor.

Each Slavia was accompanied by an instructor to guide us around the BIC. After Tuhin's exhilarating laps, I got behind the wheel. As it was my first time driving on a racetrack, he advised me to adjust the seat and steering wheel. We then set off for the first lap.

While I had theoretical knowledge of racing lines, apex, trail braking, and corner entry and exit, it was time to put that theory into practice. I was on cloud nine after my two laps in the Skoda Slavia Monte Carlo at the BIC, where legends in Formula 1 and MotoGP have made headlines. The instructor offered tips at every corner but let me take the reins, which made the laps even more thrilling. His hands-off approach let me drive with freedom, making it feel like my own track experience.

Slalom, Autocross & Moose tests

After completing the racetrack session, we moved on to the slalom, autocross, and moose tests. These tests not only assess your ability to respond and react but also put the car to the test. For me, the moose test was relatively easy, but the slalom and autocross proved to be more challenging. The latter was particularly tricky. Initially, my instructor demonstrated each course, and I was in awe of his driving skills. Similarly, we whizzed through these tests when Tuhin was driving.

The Skoda Slavia Monte Carlo

The Slavia Monte Carlo performed impressively at the BIC, although there was some body roll due to its high ground clearance. However, its near-precise steering wheel, peppy engine, and responsive gearbox make it an attractive option for track enthusiasts.

I may sound dramatic, but driving on the racetrack and hitting the apex was nothing short of thrilling. I could feel the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) kicking in every time I tackled a corner, while the chassis and brakes inspired confidence.

At first, I took time to observe the track and memorise the corners. I also familiarised myself with the Slavia Monte Carlo's handling. While driving, my main focus was perfecting my racing line, followed by getting the braking and acceleration right. My instructor kept pushing me to go harder at every corner, which added to the excitement.

What you do not get to experience on public roads is testing a car to its limits, and this really helps polish your driving skills and response times. After my first lap, I felt confident enough to tackle the second one faster, this time with a better understanding of when and how much pressure to apply on the brakes or accelerator.

The Skoda Slavia Monte Carlo we drove gets a 1.5-liter TSI Evo engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It features a Tornado Red paint job with black accents throughout the exterior, including the grille, bumper, window trim, roof, ORVMs, 16-inch alloy wheels, and model designation and brand lettering. It also has a front splitter-style parts, side skirts, a small spoiler, and a faux diffuser at the back.

Inside, the cabin is dominated by an all-black theme with contrasting red inserts, dual-tone leather seats, Monte Carlo lettering sill plates, metal paddles, and a red theme for the all-digital cluster and infotainment system. It has been priced from Rs 15,79,000 (ex-showroom), while the Kushaq Monte Carlo will set you back for Rs 15,89,900 (ex-showroom) onwards.

All in all, my experience at the Buddh International Circuit left me eager for more track days, and also boosted my confidence as a driver. Not only that, it was a great fun.