Skoda Kushaq Facelift Enters Production Phase in India, Bookings Now Live
Skoda Auto India has officially initiated the manufacturing process for the highly anticipated new Skoda Kushaq facelift SUV at its state-of-the-art production facility located in Chakan, Pune. This strategic move follows the recent unveiling of the updated model in the competitive Indian automotive market, signaling the brand's commitment to strengthening its presence in the rapidly evolving SUV segment.
Pre-Bookings Commence Ahead of Official Pricing Announcement
Prospective customers eager to get their hands on the refreshed Kushaq can now secure their units through pre-bookings, which have already been activated across the country. Interested buyers have the flexibility to reserve the SUV either via online platforms or by physically visiting their nearest authorized Skoda dealership. The company has confirmed that the final pricing structure will be disclosed by the conclusion of February 2026, with the first batch of deliveries slated to commence in March 2026, ensuring a timely market entry.
Comprehensive Variant Lineup and Enhanced Warranty Offerings
The new Skoda Kushaq facelift is being offered in an extensive range of five distinct variants: Classic Plus, Signature, Sportline, Prestige, and the sporty Monte Carlo edition. This update marks the inaugural facelift for the Kushaq since its original debut in 2021, introducing a series of cosmetic refinements on the exterior, a meticulously tweaked interior cabin with additional premium features, and overall enhancements to elevate the driving experience.
In a bid to bolster customer confidence and value proposition, Skoda is providing an extended warranty package that includes coverage of up to six years for general components, a six-year corrosion warranty, and a three-year warranty for the paint finish. The SUV continues to position itself as a formidable contender in its segment, directly competing with rivals such as the Volkswagen Taigun, Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, Tata Sierra, and the Maruti Suzuki Victoris.
Exterior Design Evolution: A Fresh Yet Familiar Silhouette
While the overall silhouette of the SUV retains its recognizable shape, the facelift introduces a comprehensively reworked front and rear fascia. The front end now boasts a redesigned grille adorned with elegant chrome accents, complemented by slimmer and more aggressive headlamps. A new LED daytime running light signature elegantly extends across the width of the grille, enhancing visual appeal.
The lower section features a fresh skid plate, and the bumper adopts a contemporary honeycomb-style design for a more dynamic look. Side profile changes are subtle yet effective, limited to newly crafted 17-inch alloy wheels and thicker black cladding that amplifies the SUV's road presence and rugged character.
At the rear, the Kushaq receives a redesigned tailgate equipped with new connecting LED taillights and illuminated 'SKODA' lettering that glows for added sophistication. Additional exterior highlights include a shark fin antenna, a silver skid plate, a rear wiper with washer, functional roof rails, and an integrated spoiler, collectively contributing to a cohesive and modern aesthetic.
Interior Upgrades and Cutting-Edge Feature Suite
Inside the cabin, the fundamental layout remains consistent with minor yet impactful revisions. The Kushaq continues to offer a capacitive climate control panel, a two-spoke steering wheel, and intuitive control panels. In terms of features, it is equipped with a advanced 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, paired with a 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster.
The audio experience is elevated by a six-speaker Skoda sound system complete with a subwoofer and amplifier. Other notable amenities include automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, premium leatherette seats, electrically adjustable front seats with ventilation, and an AI companion powered by Google for enhanced connectivity. A segment-first rear massager further distinguishes the Kushaq in its class.
Robust Safety Credentials and Unchanged Mechanical Configuration
Safety remains a paramount focus, with the Kushaq facelift incorporating six airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), traction control, cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, and all-wheel disc brakes. Additional conveniences such as rain-sensing wipers, a defogger, and an auto-dimming interior rearview mirror are also standard. The SUV has earned a prestigious five-star safety rating from Global NCAP for both adult and child occupants, underscoring its commitment to passenger protection.
Mechanically, the powertrain options remain unchanged, offering two engine choices: a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbo petrol engine delivering 115 horsepower and 175 Nm of torque, and a more potent 1.5-litre, four-cylinder turbo diesel engine producing 150 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 7-speed DSG gearbox exclusively for the 1.5-litre engine, while the smaller 1.0-litre unit is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and a new 8-speed torque converter automatic, which replaces the previous 6-speed unit, promising smoother and more efficient performance.
