Mumbai — In a market where “value for money” is often chased harder than a parking spot at a mall on Sunday evening, Škoda Auto India has decided to raise the bar—and possibly your expectations—with the launch of the refreshed Škoda Kushaq. Branded as the “Easy to Love” new Kushaq, this update isn’t just a facelift—it’s more like a personality upgrade with better features, stronger safety, and a surprisingly pampering rear seat.
At first glance, the new Kushaq brings a sharper design with refreshed front and rear styling, but dig deeper and you’ll notice that Škoda has gone all-in on democratizing premium features. From LED headlamps and sequential indicators to an electric sunroof and Climatronic AC being standard, the SUV now feels less like an entry-level European and more like a well-dressed overachiever.
But the real story lies beneath—and inside.
Škoda continues its obsession with safety, and thankfully, this isn’t just brochure talk. The Kushaq retains its Global NCAP 5-star rating and now comes with over 40 safety features, including rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming IRVM, and rear defogger as standard. In short, even the base variant behaves like it has something to prove.
Speaking of the base variant, the new Classic+ trim is no longer the “compromise option.” It arrives loaded with six airbags, alloy wheels, touchscreen infotainment, and even a sunroof—because apparently, entry-level buyers also deserve a sky view.
Under the hood, the Kushaq continues with its turbocharged DNA. The 1.0 TSI engine delivers a respectable 85 kW and 178 Nm, paired with either a six-speed manual or—wait for it—a segment-first eight-speed torque converter automatic. Yes, you read that right. An 8-speed automatic at this level feels like Škoda casually flexing its engineering muscle.
For those who believe driving should involve more adrenaline than just traffic stress, the 1.5 TSI steps in with 110 kW and 250 Nm, paired with the ever-popular DSG gearbox. Add to that Active Cylinder Technology, which shuts down two cylinders when cruising, and you get performance with a side of efficiency—like having dessert without the guilt.
Inside the cabin, Škoda has clearly decided that comfort shouldn’t be limited to the driver. The highlight? A segment-first rear seat massager. Yes, your passengers can now relax while you deal with potholes and traffic jams—arguably the most honest representation of Indian driving conditions.
The higher trims—Prestige and Monte Carlo—take things up a notch with features like a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, a 10.25-inch digital cockpit, and a premium sound system. The Monte Carlo variant, in particular, adds a sporty flair with red accents, blacked-out elements, and a design that screams “weekend drive ready,” even if it’s just a grocery run.
Škoda hasn’t ignored ownership experience either. With its “Škoda Super Care” package, customers get a 4-year warranty, roadside assistance, and service benefits—because loving your car should also mean not worrying about it.
Priced from ₹10.69 lakh for the 1.0 TSI range and going up to ₹18.79 lakh for the enthusiast-friendly 1.5 TSI DSG, the new Kushaq positions itself as a strong contender in the compact SUV segment—one that now blends European engineering with Indian expectations more seamlessly than ever.
With availability across 325 touchpoints in over 183 cities, Škoda’s message is clear: you don’t have to look far—or spend too much—to experience a well-rounded, fun-to-drive, and now surprisingly relaxing SUV.
Because in 2026, apparently, even your car thinks you deserve a massage.
| New Kushaq | Price INR (Ex- Showroom) | ||
| 1.0 TSI MT | 1.0 TSI AT | 1.5 TSI DSG | |
| Classic+ | ₹ 10,69,000 | ₹ 12,69,000 | – |
| Signature | ₹ 14,59,000 | ₹ 15,59,000 | – |
| Sportline | ₹ 14,74,000 | ₹ 15,74,000 | – |
| Prestige | ₹ 16,79,000 | ₹ 17,59,000 | ₹ 18,79,000 |
| Monte Carlo | – | ₹ 17,89,000 | ₹ 18,99,000 |
