Skoda India Unveils 2026 Kushaq Facelift with Major Upgrades
Skoda India has finally revealed the 2026 Kushaq facelift after teasing it for several days. The updated SUV builds on the success of the original model, which launched in June 2021. This car was Skoda's first under its India 2.0 strategy and quickly became a top seller for the brand in the country. Now, the new version offers a more appealing design and fresh features to attract buyers.
Pre-bookings for the 2026 Skoda Kushaq start today. The official launch is scheduled for March 2026. If you are curious about the changes, here is a detailed look at what the facelift brings.
Five Trim Options Available
The 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift will come in five distinct trims. These include Classic+, Signature, Sportline, Prestige, and Monte Carlo. The Classic+ serves as the base variant. As usual, the Monte Carlo badge marks the top-end trim of the SUV.
Safety Features Get a Major Boost
Safety takes a significant leap forward in the 2026 Kushaq. The SUV boasts a Global NCAP five-star safety rating. Standard features across all variants include six airbags and over 25 active and passive safety systems.
The Prestige and Monte Carlo trims add even more safety elements. They offer more than 40 active and passive features. A new front parking sensor is now available. It comes as an optional extra for the base Classic+ variant. Higher trims get it as standard equipment. This addition makes handling the SUV easier in tight spots and heavy traffic.
Sharper Exterior Design
The 2026 Kushaq receives a noticeable design makeover. Exterior changes give it a fresh and modern look. The grille has been revamped to resemble the one on the Kylaq. It is now larger and bolder. The front bumper also gets revisions, adding a muscular tone to the SUV's face.
New LED headlamps and taillights come standard across all variants. A full-width LED DRL is another new feature. On the sides, you will find updated wheel designs. At the rear, the Kushaq sports illuminated Skoda lettering. It also has a connected LED light bar and sequential rear turn indicators. These elements enhance the vehicle's visual appeal.
Enhanced Digital Cabin Experience
Inside the cabin, the 2026 Kushaq facelift focuses on digital upgrades. The changes are minimal but meaningful. A new digital cockpit improves the digital footprint. Signature and Sportline trims get an 8.0-inch digital driver display. Prestige and Monte Carlo variants feature a larger 10.25-inch display.
Other cabin features include rain-sensing automatic wipers, a rear wiper with defogger, and Climatronic automatic AC. Sunroof options vary by trim. Classic+, Signature, and Sportline trims come with a single-pane sunroof. Prestige and Monte Carlo models offer a panoramic sunroof for a more open feel.
Competition in the Midsize SUV Segment
The Skoda Kushaq is built on the MQB-A0-IN platform. It shares its underpinnings with models like the Kylaq, Slavia, Volkswagen Taigun, and Virtus. The facelift revives its rivalry with popular midsize SUVs. Key competitors include the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Volkswagen Taigun, and Honda Elevate.
