Skoda Auto India has ignited excitement with the first official teaser of the Kushaq facelift, set for unveiling next week—its first major refresh since debuting in 2021 as the cornerstone of the Volkswagen Group's localised India 2.0 strategy. Built on the MQB-A0-IN platform at the Pune facility, the updated compact SUV targets intensified rivalry from Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Tata Sierra by blending evolutionary styling, premium interiors, and advanced safety. Priced from ₹11.5 lakh (ex-showroom est.), it aims to sustain Skoda's strong safety ratings (5-star Global NCAP) while boosting sales in the 1.2 million-unit C-SUV market.
Exterior Evolution: Subtle Yet Aggressive
The green-camouflaged teaser reveals refined cues preserving the Kushaq's muscular ethos. Frontal changes include slimmer matrix LED headlamps with dynamic indicators, a bolder "butterfly" grille (15% larger), and redesigned bumpers for a wider stance. Aerodynamic L-shaped DRLs integrate seamlessly, while sides showcase 17-inch dual-tone alloys (up from 16-inch) and blacked-out pillars for a floating roof effect. Rear updates feature connected LED taillamps (inspired by new Slavia), a chunkier diffuser, and quad exhaust tips on top trims. Dimensions hold steady (4,221mm length, 1,760mm width, 2,651mm wheelbase), but ground clearance rises slightly to 200mm via retuned suspension. Six color options, including new Polar White Night and Carbon Steel, join carryovers like Candy White.
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Interior Luxury Leap
Cabin refinements elevate perceived quality to match pricier rivals. A 13-inch floating touchscreen (up from 10-inch) runs updated MQB infotainment with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, OTA updates, and multilingual voice commands. The 10.25-inch digital driver's display offers dynamic layouts, while ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof (segment-first for Skoda?), and 45W USB-C ports enhance comfort. Boot space remains generous at 385 litres (expandable to 1,500L), with premium touches like soft-touch materials, ambient lighting (10 colors), and twin-zone climate control. Four trims—Classic, Signature, Prestige, Monte Carlo—cater to budgets, with leatherette Monte Carlo exclusive.
Powertrains and Dynamics Refined
No diesel return, but petrols get tweaks: the 1.0 TSI delivers 115PS/178Nm with 6MT/6AT options and 19.8kmpl ARAI mileage, featuring quicker throttle response via ECU remap. The 1.5 TSI offers 150PS/250Nm (DSG-only) with ACT cylinder deactivation for 19.2kmpl, plus rear disc brakes standard. Paddle-shifters, drive modes (Normal/Sport/Individual), and ESC with multi-collision braking improve dynamics. Top variants debut Level 2 ADAS: adaptive cruise, lane keep/centring, AEB, traffic jam assist—calibrated for Indian roads.
Launch Timeline and Rival Edge
Expected January 2026 debut (post-Auto Expo hype), on-road prices ₹13-21 lakh. Bookings open pre-launch with ₹25,000 token. Skoda promises 3-year/unlimited-km warranty, 5-year maintenance packages. Against Creta's volume (1.5 lakh/month), Kushaq leverages European build (95% local parts), service network (200+ outlets), and resale value. Expect waiting periods of 2-4 months on popular variants.
This facelift sharpens Kushaq's edge—superior dynamics, tech, and safety poised for segment leadership.
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