Watching the launch, I was struck by how the newly unveiled, updated Skoda Kushaq immediately strengthens the brand’s India portfolio. It builds on the SUV’s strong foundation not with just updated design elements, but with a decisive long list of new, segment-first features and enhanced standard equipment. Crucially, Skoda Auto India has listened, improved the range of automatic transmissions, and continues to prioritise safety and everyday usability for the Indian market.
You can secure the new Kushaq now, as Pre-bookings have opened on Skoda Auto India’s official website with a token of Rs 15,000. Buyers have a choice of 5 trims on offer: Classic+, Signature, Sportline, Prestige, and Monte Carlo. The good news is the wait is defined; deliveries are slated to commence by the end of March 2026.
A Closer Look at the Design Updates
Moving from the booking details to the car itself, the updated look of the new Kushaq is immediately striking. Having examined it closely, I can say it confidently adopts Skoda’s latest Modern Solid design language. The front is highlighted by a revised and more assertive front grille with distinct chrome ribs, now complemented by a sleek illuminated light band that runs across it.
Visibility and premium feel get a big boost, as full LED headlamps and taillamps are now standard across all variants. Stepping up to the higher trims further add advanced features like LED fog lamps and front parking sensors for easier maneuvering. At the rear, the design is tied together with connected LED tail-lamps featuring dynamic sequential turn indicators and sharp illuminated ‘Skoda’ lettering, giving it a truly modern signature.
Personalization is key, and Skoda has made smart moves here. Starting with a generous base, all variants get alloy wheels as standard. The Prestige and Monte Carlo trims receive even sharper new design alloy wheels as part of their additional visual enhancements.
The colour palette gets a fresh infusion too, with Skoda having expanded it by adding three new shades: Shimla Green, Cherry Red, and Steel Grey, taking the total colour options to eight. Notably, the sought-after Monte Carlo variant is available from launch, responding to growing customer demand. It’s the sportiest pick, featuring red brake callipers and unique sportier styling cues.
The Heart of the Update: A New Gearbox
Now, let’s talk about what really changes the driving experience. For me, the major highlight of this update is undoubtedly the introduction of an all-new transmission. Skoda has brought in an eight-speed torque converter automatic gearbox paired with the 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine, which is a genuine segment-first offering that promises smoother shifts and better refinement. This familiar and efficient 1.0 TSI engine produces a healthy 115 PS (85 kW) and 178 Nm of torque. The key upgrade is that this powertrain is now available with either the trusted six-speed manual or the new eight-speed automatic, giving buyers a significant and modern choice.
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For those seeking more punch, the more powerful 1.5-litre TSI petrol engine continues unchanged, still boasting its efficient Active Cylinder Technology and producing a robust 110 kW (150 PS) and 250 Nm. This engine is offered exclusively with a quick-shifting seven-speed DSG automatic.
A key improvement for this version is that it now gets disc brakes on all four wheels for better stopping power. This is particularly relevant for the sporty Monte Carlo variant. In that specific Monte Carlo variant, the 1.5 TSI features performance-oriented front and rear disc brakes, while the 1.0 TSI Monte Carlo gets upgraded front discs. It’s worth noting for driving purists that manual gearboxes are not offered on any of the Monte Carlo trims, focusing these models squarely on automatic convenience and sporty character.
A More Luxurious Cabin Experience
Step inside, and the new Kushaq clearly receives its most significant upgrade in terms of cabin comfort and technology. Based on my experience, the headline addition is a large panoramic sunroof, which has been introduced for the first time on the Prestige and Monte Carlo variants, greatly enhancing the sense of space.
The other trims continue to be well-equipped with a standard electric sunroof. Adding to the upscale atmosphere, Dual-colour ambient lighting is now available to elevate the nighttime driving experience, but you’ll need to step up to at least the Signature variants onwards to get this feature.
The comfort extends to the chairs, as Electric front seats with ventilation are now offered on the higher trims, a blessing in our climate. You’ll also notice new seat upholstery and an updated interior décor across the range, which freshens up the cabin feel.
Practically, the Boot space remains generous at 491 litres, and is expandable to a massive 1405 litres with the rear seats folded, which I find incredibly useful. A major tech push is seen in the Digital instrumentation, which has been expanded. The top Prestige and Monte Carlo variants get a modern 10.25-inch digital cockpit, while the Signature and Sportline trims receive an 8-inch digital display, marking the first time these models have had such a feature.
Smarter Connectivity: The New Infotainment & AI Assistant
Moving to the tech hub of the car, the updated Kushaq features a crisp 10.1-inch infotainment system from the Signature variants upwards, which comes with seamless wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The real leap forward is that this system is paired with a new companion app powered by the Google Automotive AI Agent. This isn’t just basic voice command; it’s an intelligent system offering true context-aware voice assistance that can fetch real-time information like news and trends.
More importantly, it provides genuine hands-free control for essential functions like media, calls, and climate settings. Having tested similar systems, a key detail impresses me: the system was specifically developed to accurately recognise Indian English accents, a thoughtful step that goes a long way in improving its everyday usability on our roads.
A Continued Commitment to Protection
Safety remains a strong pillar for the Kushaq, as it retains its five-star Global NCAP rating. Protection is generous from the base up, with Six airbags and over 25 core safety features standard across all variants. This suite extends to more than 40 features on the higher trims, ensuring top-tier security.
Away from safety, Skoda has made a very customer-friendly move by significantly boosting the standard equipment list right from the base variant onwards. In my view, this seriously enhances the deal. Features that were often optional or reserved for higher models are now offered as standard. The list is impressive and includes Climatronic automatic climate control, a rear wiper and defogger, convenient rain-sensing wipers, an auto-dimming IRVM, full LED lighting, stylish alloy wheels, and even an electric sunroof. This strategic bundling is reinforcing the SUV’s overall value proposition right from the entry point.
Peace of Mind with Skoda Super Care
A crucial part of owning any car is the after-sales support, and the new Kushaq is strongly backed by the Skoda Super Care program. From my experience, this package is a significant value-add. It includes a standard four-year or 100,000 km warranty, four years of roadside assistance, and four labour-free services valid for up to two years or 30,000 km. For long-term owners, the Warranty coverage can even be extended up to six years. Furthermore, you can opt for additional packages like corrosion and paint protection, which are wise investments for preserving your car’s condition in the long run.
Looking at the big picture, the launch of the updated Kushaq is a clear strategic move by Skoda Auto India. They are aiming to decisively sharpen the car’s competitiveness in the fiercely fought compact SUV segment. The strategy isn’t about one single change, but about combining several key strengths: introducing segment-first technology, offering a much broader choice of automatic transmissions, and presenting a significantly stronger standard feature list. Underpinning all of this is their unwavering commitment, continuing their core focus on safety and long-term ownership value. It’s a comprehensive play to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
