The new Škoda Kushaq brings an extra dose of equipment and confidence

Škoda has unveiled a new version of its Kushaq SUV in India. The car has been given an even more confident look with elements of the Modern Solid design language and contemporary details. These changes move it closer to a premium concept, while it continues to offer the brand's signature combination of strong usability and attractive pricing.

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Launched in 2021, the Kushaq was the first Škoda model developed under the Volkswagen Group’s new strategy for India. Almost five years later, the time has come for a comprehensive update of this popular SUV, which is manufactured directly in India using 95% locally sourced components.

The facelift also reflects what Škoda has learned about the Indian market during its direct presence in the country. As a result, the updated model is even better tailored to the tastes and needs of local customers. While the Kushaq retains its core strengths—practicality, a strong focus on safety and elegance—it now adds a wide range of new solutions that are particularly appreciated by Indian buyers.

“Light is the new chrome,” Bucaille says, referring to the more intensive use of illuminated elements in the grille. These elements visually connect the headlights and give the car a wider, more distinctive stance. “Indian customers’ tastes are evolving rapidly. However, they still appreciate chrome, which is why the lighting elements are complemented by ribbing in the grille, door handles and window frames with a chrome finish,” he adds.

In line with the new slim rear lights, the rear bumper has also been completely redesigned, featuring new slim taillights and a more pronounced dark rear diffuser section at the bottom. “At the rear, there is a new illuminated strip that connects the taillights and incorporates an backlit Škoda logo,” adds designer Karel Linhart, who was responsible for the rear redesign. The Kushaq is the first Škoda model to feature such a lighting element at the rear.

From the very start of sales, a sportier Monte Carlo variant will also be available, traditionally distinguished by black exterior accents and red accents on the grille.

The exterior of the Kushaq in a sporty Monte Carlo design

Practicality and safety

With a length of 4,229 mm, the Kushaq remains a highly practical SUV. The luggage compartment offers a capacity of 491 litres, expanding to up to 1,405 litres with the rear seats folded down, and the vehicle includes numerous Simply Clever features. As standard, the Kushaq is equipped with six airbags and more than 25 active and passive safety features, while top specifications can offer over 40. Useful equipment includes a rear wiper, rear window defogger, automatic front wipers, a multi-collision braking system, an electronic differential lock, as well as ABS and ESC. The Kushaq has achieved a five-star rating in Global NCAP crash tests.

Škoda has also tailored the colour palette to the character of the vehicle. “Our new communication colour is Shimla Green, inspired by a region in northern India. This area at the foothills of the Himalayas is very green, but also often misty, which results in a slightly muted shade,” explains Caroline Liehr from the Color & Trim department. Compared to the smaller Kylaq, the new Kushaq features a more elegant overall colour selection. The range also includes Steel Grey, which will be the signature colour for the Monte Carlo version, and Cherry Red as a third new paint option. In total, the model will be available in eight shades.

The interior has also taken a step towards a more mature feel. In the Monte Carlo version, the Kushaq now features subtle burgundy-red décor elements, red stitching on the seats and carbon-look upholstery. Standard versions introduce beige accents to the cabin, offering a pleasant shift towards more natural tones.

The interior of the Kushaq in a sporty Monte Carlo design

The interior of the Kushaq in the sporty Monte Carlo design

Firsts in the Segment

The Kushaq also benefits from technical and equipment upgrades, with several features making their debut in this segment. Rear seats can be equipped with a massage function, while the driver will appreciate the 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch infotainment display. The Companion App, built on Google technologies, brings state-of-the-art digital solutions to the vehicle, including intuitive voice control of key functions powered by Gemini artificial intelligence.

Another class-exclusive feature is the eight-speed automatic transmission with a hydrodynamic torque converter, available for the 1.0 TSI engine producing 85 kW, with a six-speed manual offered as an alternative. The 1.5 TSI engine with 110 kW can be paired with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission, and the top engine variant also receives disc brakes on the rear axle. The Kushaq is now also available with a panoramic sunroof.

Customers in India can already place orders for the updated model. Škoda also offers its comprehensive service portfolio, including the Škoda Super Care package, which covers a four-year warranty, four years of roadside assistance and four scheduled services included in the price. At a later stage, the new Kushaq will also be introduced to additional markets, where Škoda has already exported over 700,000 cars during its time in India.

What’s new on the Kushaq

● Panoramic Sunroof
● 10.25-inch Digital cockpit
● 1.5 TSI engine with disc brakes on all four wheels
● Front Grille with Illuminated Light Band
● Illuminated rear ‘Škoda’ badge lettering
● Front parking sensors
● Sequential rear turn indicators
● LED headlights and taillights
● LED Fog lamps
● 10.1-inch infotainment system
● Companion app, built on Google’s Gemini AI platform
● New seat upholstery and décor elements
● Dual colour ambient lighting
● Three all-new body colours – Shimla Green, Cherry Red, Steel Grey
● New alloy wheel designs