Skoda Kushaq Facelift Debuts in India with Competitive Pricing and Feature-Rich Offerings
Skoda Auto India has officially introduced the new Skoda Kushaq facelift to the Indian automotive market. This updated compact SUV is available in five distinct variants: Classic Plus, Signature, Sportline, Prestige, and Monte Carlo. The pricing spectrum ranges from Rs 10.69 lakh to Rs 18.99 lakh, both ex-showroom, positioning it as a formidable contender in the competitive C-SUV segment.
Prospective buyers can secure their vehicle through online bookings or by visiting authorized dealerships, with deliveries anticipated to commence shortly. The Kushaq continues to rival popular models such as the Volkswagen Taigun, Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, Tata Sierra, and Maruti Suzuki Victoris.
Key Advantages of the New Skoda Kushaq Facelift
Generously Equipped Base Variant
The entry-level Classic Plus trim emerges as one of the most comprehensively equipped options in its category. It includes premium features typically reserved for higher trims in rival vehicles. Standard offerings encompass 16-inch alloy wheels, an electric sunroof, full LED headlamps and tail lamps with sequential turn indicators, and automatic climate control. Additionally, an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission is optional, enhancing convenience from the outset.
Practical elements like rain-sensing wipers, a rear washer and wiper, and a rear defogger are also standard, ensuring improved visibility in adverse conditions. The infotainment system features a 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, making the Kushaq Classic Plus a benchmark for entry-level expectations.
5-Star GNCAP Safety Rating
The Skoda Kushaq has achieved a full five-star rating in both adult and child occupant crash tests, scoring 29.64 out of 34 points for adult protection and 42 out of 49 for child protection. Safety is bolstered by six airbags and over 25 active and passive features, including electronic stability control, hill hold assist, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. Higher variants add advanced features like front parking sensors, a reverse camera, cruise control, and all-wheel disc brakes.
Segment-First Rear Massage Seats
Select higher variants of the Kushaq introduce a rear seat massage function, a rarity in the compact SUV segment. This feature, integrated into the rear backrest, uses motors to provide gentle movements aimed at reducing passenger fatigue on long journeys, highlighting Skoda's focus on rear occupant comfort.
Anytime Warranty of Up to 8 Years
Skoda offers the Super Care package as standard, which includes a 4-year or 1,00,000 km warranty, four years of roadside assistance, and four labour-free services for up to two years or 30,000 km. Extended warranty options of up to eight years are available, helping owners manage maintenance costs effectively.
Powerful and Smooth 1.5-Litre TSI Engine
The 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbo petrol EVO engine delivers refined performance with smooth power delivery. It incorporates cylinder deactivation technology to enhance fuel efficiency during light-load cruising, balancing power and economy.
Notable Drawbacks of the New Skoda Kushaq Facelift
No Option of Diesel, CNG, or Hybrid
The Kushaq is exclusively available with petrol engines, lacking diesel, CNG, or hybrid variants. This omission may deter buyers seeking better fuel efficiency or lower running costs, particularly for high-mileage users or those preferring alternative fuels.
No 360-Degree Camera
Despite its feature-rich approach, the Kushaq does not include a 360-degree camera, a convenience feature common in rivals. This absence can hinder parking and manoeuvring in tight spaces, potentially affecting buyer preference for ease of use.
No Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
The SUV lacks ADAS features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and autonomous emergency braking, which are increasingly offered by competitors. This may be a drawback for safety-conscious buyers looking for enhanced driver assistance technology.
Reverse Camera Resolution
The reverse camera, while functional, suffers from lower resolution compared to segment rivals, with reduced clarity in low-light conditions. Although it includes guiding lines for parking, the quality could be improved to match modern standards.
Limited Rear Boot Space
With 491 litres of boot space (expandable to 1,405 litres via 60:40 split rear seats), the Kushaq offers increased capacity over its predecessor but still falls short of some competitors. This may concern buyers prioritizing luggage space for daily or travel needs.
