Pune — Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL) has officially commenced production of the updated Škoda Kushaq at its Chakan manufacturing facility in Pune, reinforcing India’s growing importance as a global production and export hub for the Volkswagen Group.
The refreshed mid-size SUV brings notable upgrades in comfort, technology, and drivetrain options — because apparently Indian SUV buyers now want everything from performance to back-seat spa treatment (yes, there’s a massage function).
INDIA 2.0’s Flagship Child Returns with Upgrades
Originally the first product under the Group’s INDIA 2.0 strategy, the Kushaq was designed specifically for Indian roads, traffic, weather, and the occasional “shortcut” suggested by Google Maps.
The new production model continues that mission while introducing:
- Segment-first rear-seat massage function
- Premium panoramic sunroof
- New 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission
- Up to 40 active and passive safety features
- Continued 5-star safety rating for driver and passengers
The SUV blends European driving dynamics with high localisation levels to keep ownership costs competitive.
India’s Role in Global Manufacturing Strengthens
Andreas Dick, Board Member for Production and Logistics at Škoda Auto, highlighted the importance of India in the brand’s global strategy, noting that the Kushaq represents one of the first vehicles developed outside Europe through close India-Czech collaboration.
He added that the quick production rollout demonstrates how deeply India is now integrated into the company’s international manufacturing ecosystem.
Company Leadership Calls Kushaq a Core Growth Pillar
Piyush Arora, Managing Director & CEO of SAVWIPL, described the new Kushaq as a continuation of the brand’s effort to deliver European engineering within reach of Indian families.
According to him, customer feedback played a key role in adding premium features such as:
- Panoramic sunroof
- Rear-seat massage
- New automatic gearbox
(Proof that Indian customers increasingly want luxury features once reserved for cars twice the price — and honestly, who wouldn’t?)
Škoda India Plans Wider Product Push in 2026
Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Škoda Auto India, said the Kushaq has been a transformative product for the company and will remain central to its growth strategy.
He confirmed that the production start also signals the beginning of a broader product offensive planned for the year, alongside network expansion and a continued service-focused approach.
Sales Success Continues
The Kushaq has already played a major role in SAVWIPL’s performance, contributing to the Group’s record 117,000 units sold in 2025.
The updated SUV made its global debut in January 2026, with customer deliveries scheduled to begin in March. Strong early bookings suggest the model’s popularity remains intact.
