The mid-size SUV segment in India has just become a whole lot more exciting. After months of anticipation, Skoda India has finally pulled the covers off the 2026 Kushaq Facelift. It isn’t just a minor nip-and-tuck; the Kushaq has grown up, offering more tech, a sharper look, and some segment-first luxuries that will make its rivals sweat.
If you’ve been holding off on buying an SUV, here is everything you need to know about the new Kushaq and why it might just be the best driver’s car in its class.
1. A Face That Commands Attention
The first thing you’ll notice is the new “glow.” Skoda has revamped the front fascia with a larger, bolder grille featuring an illuminated light band—giving it a futuristic, premium vibe similar to its electric cousin, the Enyaq.
What’s New Outside:
- Lights: New LED lighting package with sleek sequential turn indicators.
- Stance: New 17-inch alloy designs that fill the arches perfectly.
- The Rear: A stunning connected LED tail-lamp setup and illuminated Skoda lettering on the tailgate (available on Signature trims and above).
- Size: It’s slightly longer now (by 4mm) due to the beefier, redesigned bumpers.
- Fresh Colors: You can now pick from three new shades: Shimla Green, Cherry Red, and Steel Grey.
2. Luxury You Can Feel: Massage Seats & AI
Step inside, and you’ll realize Skoda hasn’t just focused on looks. The cabin feels significantly more premium.
The biggest talking point? Rear Massage Seats. While most SUVs focus only on the driver, Skoda is pampering the passengers, making it a fantastic choice for those who are chauffeur-driven.
Interior Highlights:
- Tech Overhaul: A crisp 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit for the driver and a 10.1-inch infotainment screen with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.
- Panoramic Sunroof: Finally! The Kushaq now offers the airy, open-cabin feel that Indian buyers love.
- Smart Assistant: The car now features a Google Automotive AI Agent, allowing you to control car functions using natural voice commands.
- Practicality: The boot space has seen a massive jump from 385 liters to a whopping 491 liters. That’s a gain of over 100 liters—perfect for those family road trips!
3. Performance: A New Gearbox Joins the Party
Under the hood, the Kushaq stays true to its “fun-to-drive” DNA but with a key update for automatic lovers.
- The 1.0L TSI (114 HP / 178 Nm): The reliable workhorse. While the 6-speed manual remains, the old torque converter has been replaced by a new 8-speed automatic gearbox (AQ300), promising smoother shifts and better efficiency.
- The 1.5L TSI (148 HP / 250 Nm): For the enthusiasts. This engine features Active Cylinder Technology (ACT) and comes exclusively with the lightning-fast 7-speed DSG.
4. Safety: Sticking to the Roots
Skoda has always been a safety pioneer in India. The facelifted Kushaq comes with 25 standard safety features across all variants, with higher trims boasting over 40 features. While many expected ADAS, Skoda has focused on structural integrity and active safety for now, though an ADAS update might follow in the future.
5. Variants and Bookings
Skoda has simplified the lineup into five distinct trims to suit different personalities:
- Classic+ (The value entry)
- Signature (The premium choice)
- Sportline (For the sporty look)
- Prestige (The luxury flagship)
- Monte Carlo (The iconic red-and-black aesthetic—available right from launch!)
The Verdict for CarBhumi Readers: The Skoda Kushaq was always the car you bought if you loved driving. With this facelift, it’s now the car you buy if you want luxury and features too. With bookings already open and deliveries starting in March, it’s time to head to your nearest Skoda showroom.
What do you think of the new look? Is the Shimla Green your new favorite color? Let us know in the comments below!
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