Škoda Auto India has unveiled the updated Kushaq, further strengthening its presence in the highly competitive compact SUV segment. Introduced as part of the brand’s ongoing India 2.0 strategy, the new Kushaq continues Škoda’s focus on democratising European technology for Indian roads while adding a host of segment-first features, updated design elements, and expanded automatic transmission options.

What’s New?

Exterior Updates

• Updated design based on Škoda’s Modern Solid design philosophy
• New front grille with chrome ribs and an illuminated light band
• New LED headlamps and LED fog lamps
• Front parking sensors added
• Connected LED taillamps with sequential turn indicators
• Illuminated ‘Škoda’ lettering at the rear
• Alloy wheels now standard across all variants
• Introduction of three new exterior colours:
  Shimla Green, Steel Grey, Cherry Red
• Monte Carlo variant available from launch

Powertrain & Transmission Updates

• Introduction of a segment-first 8-speed torque converter automatic with the 1.0 TSI engine
• 1.0-litre TSI engine produces 85 kW and 178 Nm, available with:
• 6-speed manual
• 8-speed torque converter automatic
• 1.5-litre TSI engine produces 110 kW and 250 Nm, paired exclusively with:
• 7-speed DSG automatic
• Disc brakes on all four wheels for 1.5 TSI variants
• Retains 188 mm ground clearance

Interior & Comfort Updates

• Introduction of a panoramic sunroof (first time on Kushaq)
• Rear seat massage function (segment-first)
• Dual-colour ambient lighting
• Ventilated and six-way power-adjustable front seats
• Climatronic automatic climate control now standard
• Boot capacity of 491 litres, expandable to 1,405 litres

Digital & Infotainment Updates

• New 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Google Automotive AI-powered voice assistant, optimised for Indian English accents
• 10.25-inch digital cockpit on higher variants
• 8-inch digital cockpit on mid variants

Safety Updates

• Continues with a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating
• Six airbags standard across all variants
• Over 25 active and passive safety features standard
• Up to 40 safety features on higher variants
• Standard fitment of:
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Rear wiper and defogger
• Auto-dimming IRVM

Ownership & Warranty Updates

• Introduction of Škoda Super Care package, including:
• 4-year / 100,000 km standard warranty
• 4 years roadside assistance
• 4 labour-free services (up to 2 years / 30,000 km)
• Warranty extendable up to 6 years
• 6-year corrosion warranty and 3-year paint warranty

The new Kushaq is now open for pre-bookings on Škoda Auto India’s official website with a token amount of ₹15,000, while deliveries are expected to commence by the end of March 2026.

Updated Design with Modern Solid Cues

The refreshed Kushaq adopts Škoda’s Modern Solid design philosophy, while retaining its familiar European proportions. Key exterior updates include a redesigned front grille with chrome ribs and an illuminated light band, new LED headlamps, front parking sensors, and LED fog lamps.

At the rear, the compact SUV features connected LED taillamps with sequential turn indicators and illuminated ‘Škoda’ lettering, giving it a more contemporary appearance. Alloy wheels are now standard across all variants, while the Monte Carlo badge is available from launch, catering to customers looking for a sportier visual package.

Powertrain Options and Segment-First Automatics

The new Škoda Kushaq continues to offer a range of ‘real automatic’ options. A key highlight is the introduction of a segment-first eight-speed torque converter automatic, paired with the 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine producing 110hp and 178 Nm of torque. This engine is also available with a six-speed manual gearbox.

For buyers seeking higher performance, the Kushaq is offered with a 1.5-litre TSI engine generating 150 kW and 250 Nm of torque, mated exclusively to a seven-speed DSG automatic. The 1.5 TSI variants also receive disc brakes on all four wheels.

Features, Technology and Cabin Experience

Inside, the new Kushaq sees meaningful upgrades aimed at improving comfort and everyday usability. A panoramic sunroof makes its debut on the model, accompanied by dual-colour ambient lighting. Higher variants feature a 10.25-inch digital cockpit, while mid variants receive an 8-inch digital display.

The SUV also introduces a new-generation infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and an AI-powered voice assistant built on Google Automotive AI. Designed to recognise Indian English accents, the system enables hands-free control over navigation, media, and vehicle functions.

Safety and Ownership Experience

Safety remains a key focus for the Kushaq, which continues to carry a five-star Global NCAP rating. The SUV offers six airbags as standard and more than 25 active and passive safety features across all variants, extending up to 40 features on higher trims.

Ownership is supported by the Škoda Super Care package, which includes a standard four-year or 100,000-kilometre warranty, four years of roadside assistance, and four labour-free services. Customers also have the option to extend warranty coverage up to six years.

Conclusion

The Kushaq and its MQB-A0-IN Platform are the backbone of the SAVWIPL group in India. The Volkswagen Taigun and the Kushaq/Kylaq are still the customer's Top Choice for enthusiastically inclined cars. Sure, the Kylaq did steal the spotlight from its elder brother, but this update from Škoda is going to push other manufacturers to compete with a new benchmark set by the German brand.