After much anticipation, Skoda India has unveiled the refreshed Kushaq. Since its debut in 2021, fans have waited for this update, and with rivals like the VW Taigun, Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, Tata Sierra, and Maruti crowding the SUV scene, the timing could not be better. But does the facelift deliver on style, comfort, and features? Let’s dive in and find out if it truly meets the expectations of today’s SUV buyers.
Skoda Kushaq Design & presence
While the Kushaq’s overall shape remains familiar, the facelift brings a fresh attitude. Up front, a reworked bumper, striking lighting accents in the grille, new LED headlights, and LED fog lamps lend a touch of elegance. At the rear, the illuminated Skoda logo adds flair, complemented by a new skid plate and a honeycomb-patterned bumper that give the SUV a modern edge.
From the side, updates are understated but effective: bold new 17-inch alloy wheels and chunkier black cladding give the Kushaq a more robust stance. Buyers can now choose from three eye-catching colors—cherry red, shimla green, and steel grey—across five distinct variants: Monte Carlo, Classic Plus, Signature, and Prestige.
Skoda Kushaq Interior & comfort
Step inside and you’ll notice the leatherette upholstery and firmly padded bolsters that will keep you comfortable on the long drive. The capacitive climate control panel, two-spoke steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, and dual-color ambient lighting give the cabin a premium look.
Moving on to the screen, the 10.1-inch infotainment system is smaller than its competitor's. However, its 10.25-inch fully digital cluster is an upgrade over its earlier 8-inch driver display, providing better visibility for the driver.
Powertrain & driving feel
Mechanically, the Kushaq keeps its familiar turbo-petrol options (1.0 TSI and 1.5 TSI), but the 1.0 now offers an all-new 8-speed torque-converter automatic alongside the manual—a refinement aimed at smoother city commuting and improved efficiency. On the road, the Kushaq stays true to its strengths: a composed ride, predictable handling, and reassuring stability at speed. It’s not sporty-wild, but it’s competent, confident, and easy to live with daily.
Safety in Skoda Kushaq
If you are someone whose emphasis is more on safety, Kushaq Global NCAP's five-star credentials are a compelling choice if crashworthiness matters to you. In addition, the 6 airbags, electronic stability control, rain-sensing wipers, tire pressure monitoring system, and front parking system strengthened its safety profile. However, the lack of a level-2 ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) suite and a 360-degree camera are big misses!
skoda kushaq 2026 Price & who it’s for
Škoda launched the new Kushaq in India on 20 January 2026, with pricing expected to start in the low-to-mid ₹ 11 lakh range and rise up the ladder depending on trims and options. That positions it competitively against the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and other compact SUVs—but the Kushaq leans more toward build quality, driving composure, and real-world comfort than headline-grabbing gadgetry.
Verdict
Skoda has really brought itself back into the SUV segment—a sophisticated exterior, a premium-looking cabin, and a better infotainment display are the enticing upgrades that position it as one of the few facelifts that catch the user's eye. However, its relatively smaller size and absence of ADAS and a 360-degree camera can become a hurdle. Hence, it’s best for drivers and families who prefer refinement and practicality over flash—and who appreciate that small, meaningful upgrades often matter more than big, theatrical redesigns.
Image Credits: Google Images
