Skoda Auto India have launched the Skoda Kushaq facelift at a starting price of Rs 10.69 lakh ex showroom, going up to Rs 18.99 lakh ex showroom. The Kushaq has been on sale in India since 2021, and this marks its first mid life update. It is also Skoda’s first launch for 2026, and the brand has already confirmed more action this year with models like the Skoda Octavia RS returning in a new batch, along with the Skoda Kodiaq RS. With the facelift, the Kushaq brings design changes, feature additions, and a key update in the form of a new 8 speed automatic gearbox for the 1.0 litre TSI.
Skoda Kushaq facelift – Exterior design
On the outside, the Skoda Kushaq gets a noticeable refresh while retaining its familiar stance. The front fascia is completely revised with new LED headlamps and fog lamps. The grille is also new and now features an illuminated pattern which adds more road presence. The DRLs have been redesigned and the front bumper is new with a silver skid plate that gives it a tougher look.
At the rear, there is a connected LED tail lamp setup with Skoda lettering integrated into the light cluster itself. The rear bumper is new as well and gets a silver skid plate similar to the front. The overall silhouette and dimensions remain largely unchanged, which keeps the Kushaq’s proportions intact.
The SUV now rides on new 17 inch dual tone alloy wheels, with designs varying based on the variant. One of the biggest upgrades is the addition of a panoramic sunroof on higher variants, replacing the earlier single pane unit. Lower variants continue with the standard sunroof. Skoda has also introduced three new colours which include Shimla Green, Steel Grey, and Cherry Red. Existing shades like Candy White, Carbon Steel, Brilliant Silver, Lava Blue, and Deep Black continue to be on offer.
Skoda Kushaq facelift – Interior and Features
Inside the cabin, the changes are subtle but meaningful. The Skoda Kushaq now gets a new beige and black interior theme which feels fresher. The dashboard layout remains similar but the tech has been updated. You get a 10.1 inch touchscreen infotainment system along with a 10.25 inch digital instrument cluster that now comes with a revised interface.
The highlight feature is the rear seat massage function, which is a segment first addition and could be a big talking point for buyers. The new panoramic sunroof also adds to the sense of space. Skoda has worked on improving the air conditioning, which was a concern in the earlier model.
The sound system is a Skoda branded setup with six speakers and a subwoofer. Boot space stands at 491 litres and can be expanded up to 1405 litres. Other features include automatic climate control, electric sunroof, auto dimming IRVM, rain sensing wipers, rear wiper, and rear defogger. Skoda has also made several features standard across variants which improves overall value.
Skoda Kushaq facelift – Powertrain
The engine options remain unchanged. The 1.0 litre TSI produces 110 hp and 178 Nm of torque, while the 1.5 litre TSI makes 150 hp and 250 Nm of torque. The key update is the new 8 speed torque converter automatic for the 1 litre engine, replacing the older 6 speed unit. A 6 speed manual continues to be offered with this engine.
The 1.5 litre TSI continues with the 7 speed DSG and comes with Active Cylinder Technology for better efficiency. However, the manual option for this engine has been discontinued. Another important update is the addition of four disc brakes on the 1.5 litre variants, while the 1.0 litre variants continue with rear drum brakes.
Skoda Kushaq facelift – Safety
The Kushaq continues with its 5 star Global NCAP rating. Skoda now offers over 25 safety features as standard across all variants. These include six airbags, ABS, ESC, and more. Higher variants offer up to 40 safety features, making the package stronger than before.
Features like LED lighting, rear wiper with defogger, rain sensing wipers, and auto dimming IRVM have now been made standard across the range, which improves safety and convenience for all buyers.
Skoda Kushaq facelift – Variants and Pricing
The Kushaq facelift is offered in five variants which are Classic Plus, Signature, Sportline, Prestige, and Monte Carlo. Pricing starts at Rs 10.69 lakh for the Classic Plus 1.0 TSI manual and goes up to Rs 18.99 lakh for the Monte Carlo 1.5 TSI DSG.
The Signature and Sportline variants are positioned in the mid range, with both manual and automatic options for the 1.0 litre engine. The Prestige variant offers the widest choice with both engines and gearboxes, while the Monte Carlo sits at the top with a sportier design and premium features.
Skoda Kushaq facelift – Market Positioning and Rivals
The Skoda Kushaq continues to compete in the mid size SUV segment. It goes up against strong players like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra, Volkswagen Taigun, Maruti Grand Vitara & Victoris, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Honda Elevate, and the recently launched Renault Duster.
With this update, Skoda is aiming to stay competitive by adding more features and improving usability while keeping the strong driving dynamics intact.