Mid-size SUV refresh targets volume segment with expanded automatic transmission options across price points.
20 Jan 2026 | 838 Views | By Shruti Shiraguppi
Škoda Auto India has launched the facelifted Kushaq mid-size SUV with a segment-first eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission and expanded feature set, with pre-bookings opening at ₹15,000 and market deliveries commencing end-March 2026.
The updated model introduces an AQ300 eight-speed torque converter automatic paired with the 1.0 TSI engine ...
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Škoda Auto India has launched the facelifted Kushaq mid-size SUV with a segment-first eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission and expanded feature set, with pre-bookings opening at ₹15,000 and market deliveries commencing end-March 2026.
The updated model introduces an AQ300 eight-speed torque converter automatic paired with the 1.0 TSI engine (85kW/178Nm) across multiple variants, positioning against competitors offering CVT and dual-clutch transmissions in the segment. The 1.5 TSI engine (110kW/250Nm) continues with the seven-speed DSG transmission and receives four-wheel disc brakes in this iteration.
The variant lineup comprises Classic+, Signature, Sportline, Prestige, and Monte Carlo trims. The Monte Carlo variant, previously introduced mid-lifecycle, is available from launch with automatic-only powertrain options. The 1.0 TSI Monte Carlo receives front disc brakes, while the 1.5 TSI Monte Carlo features front and rear disc brakes with red calipers.
Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto, said, "The new Kushaq reinforces the importance of India as the springboard for Škoda Auto's strategy to grow our international markets. The Kushaq has rapidly established itself with customers in India and as an export to ASEAN and the Middle East. Now, we are setting the next benchmark for the model's overall value proposition. Together with the Kodiaq and the Kylaq, Škoda Auto offers an SUV fleet on the Indian market that caters to significant segments and price points. Upgrading the Kushaq creates the opportunity for additional demand and further growth in our most important market outside Europe."
The First of its Kind
The Škoda Kushaq was launched on June 28, 2021, as the first model under Škoda's 'India 2.0' programme, representing a strategic shift toward heavily localized and cost-competitive products for the Indian market. Built on the MQB-A0-IN platform with 95 percent localization, the Kushaq was developed exclusively for India and manufactured at the Chakan, Pune facility.
Through end-May 2025, the Kushaq recorded cumulative sales of 88,913 units, establishing consistent monthly averages while facing intensifying segment competition. FY2023 remains the model's strongest performance year with 25,300 units sold, representing an 18 percent year-on-year increase and contributing 94 percent to Škoda Auto India's UV sales of 27,005 units. However, sales declined to 17,363 units in FY2025, down 26 percent year-on-year from FY2024's 23,396 units.
The Kushaq operates in India's mid-size SUV segment, defined by vehicles ranging between 4,000mm and 4,500mm in length. The segment leader, Hyundai Creta, recorded 194,871 units in FY2025, maintaining dominant market position. The Creta and Kia Seltos together held approximately 70 percent market share in calendar year 2022, with every seven out of ten compact SUVs sold being either a Creta or Seltos.
Primary competitors include the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Honda Elevate, MG Astor, and platform sibling Volkswagen Taigun. The Volkswagen Taigun, sharing the MQB-A0-IN platform with the Kushaq, sold 19,910 units in FY2025. The Korean duo's advantage stems from comprehensive powertrain offerings including diesel options and broader feature sets, while the Kushaq and Taigun target driving enthusiasts with European engineering and dynamics.
Recent sales decline correlates with the January 2025 launch of the Kylaq compact SUV, which recorded 10,313 units in April-May 2025, capturing 85 percent of Škoda India's UV sales while the Kushaq's share dropped to 12 percent with 1,427 units. The facelift launch addresses this competitive pressure through expanded automatic transmission options, feature standardization, and segment-first technologies to strengthen market positioning against established segment leaders.
An Upgraded Experience
Feature standardization includes alloy wheels, electric sunroof, Climatronic automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, rear wiper and defogger, auto-dimming internal rearview mirror, and LED headlamps and taillamps across all variants. The Prestige and Monte Carlo trims receive panoramic sunroof and rear seat massage function—both segment-first features.
Digital cockpit sizing follows variant hierarchy: 26.03 cm (10.25-inch) display for Prestige and Monte Carlo trims, 20.32 cm (8-inch) display for Signature and Sportline trims. Base Classic+ variant continues without digital cockpit. Infotainment screen sizes are 25.6 cm (10.1-inch) from Signature variant upward, with 17.7 cm (7-inch) units in entry variants.
The infotainment system integrates Google Automotive AI Agent voice assistant with Indian English accent recognition, available from Signature trim. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility is standard on equipped variants.
Safety specification maintains five-star Global NCAP rating with six airbags standard. Base variants feature 25-plus active and passive safety systems, expanding to 40-plus features in top variants. Front parking sensors are standard from Signature trim, with rear parking sensors and camera across applicable variants.
Exterior updates include illuminated front grille light band, revised LED headlamp and taillight graphics with sequential rear turn indicators, and illuminated 'Škoda' lettering on the tailgate. Color palette expands to eight options with three new additions: Shimla Green, Steel Grey, and Cherry Red.
Wheel sizing follows segment norms: 16-inch Grus alloys on Classic+, 17-inch Vega Silver on Signature, 17-inch Vega Black on Sportline, 17-inch Radim on Prestige, and variant-specific 17-inch designs on Monte Carlo (Vega Dual Tone for 1.0 TSI, Sagittarius for 1.5 TSI).
Vehicle dimensions remain unchanged: 4,229mm length, 1,760mm width, 1,612mm height, 2,651mm wheelbase, 188mm ground clearance. Boot capacity is rated at 491 liters, expandable to 1,405 liters with rear seats folded. Fuel tank capacity is 50 liters. Seating capacity is five.
The ownership package includes four-year/100,000-kilometer warranty, four-year roadside assistance, and four complimentary labor services for two years/30,000 kilometers. Warranty extension options cover an additional two years. Six-year corrosion warranty and three-year paint warranty are included.
Škoda Auto India operates 325-plus customer touchpoints across 183 cities. The company recorded 72,665 unit sales in 2025, representing 107% year-on-year growth. The current portfolio comprises four models: Kylaq, Slavia, Kushaq, and Kodiaq.
The Kushaq, launched in 2021 under the India 2.0 strategy, is manufactured on the MQB-A0-IN platform co-developed between India and Czech Republic operations. The model serves domestic and export markets including ASEAN and Middle East regions.