Skoda Kushaq Facelift has officially arrived in the Indian market on January 20, 2026, marking the first major update since its 2021 debut. The Czech automaker has pulled the covers off a comprehensively updated compact SUV that brings fresh styling, segment-first features, and a new transmission option to take on established rivals in the fiercely competitive mid-size SUV segment.
The updated Kushaq is now open for pre-bookings at ₹15,000 through Skoda India’s official website, with deliveries scheduled to commence by the end of March 2026.
Why the Skoda Kushaq Facelift Matters in 2026
The compact SUV segment has witnessed tremendous evolution over the past four years. With competitors constantly upping their game—Hyundai Creta receiving multiple updates, Kia Seltos getting a fresh generation, and new entrants like Tata Sierra entering the fray—the original Kushaq was beginning to show its age.
Skoda has responded with a facelift that addresses key customer demands while reinforcing the Kushaq’s core strengths of driving dynamics, build quality, and safety credentials.
Skoda Kushaq Facelift Design: Modern Solid Language Takes Centre Stage
The exterior transformation of the Skoda Kushaq Facelift adopts the brand’s latest “Modern Solid” design philosophy, drawing inspiration from the recently launched Kodiaq.
Front Fascia Highlights
The face of the updated Kushaq features dramatically slimmer LED headlamps that stretch across the width of the car, forming a distinctive T-shaped signature. Eyebrow-style daytime running lamps sit above, connected by a segmented LED light bar integrated into the redesigned gloss-black butterfly grille.
The front bumper receives a sharper, more sculpted profile with angular silver trim and repositioned fog lamp clusters, lending the SUV a sportier stance.
Side Profile & Rear Design
From the sides, the silhouette remains largely familiar with the sharp beltline crease and thick body cladding. New 17-inch alloy wheel designs distinguish the facelift from its predecessor.
The rear end showcases the most noticeable changes—connected LED tail lamps with sequential turn indicators and the signature illuminated ‘SKODA’ wordmark replace the individual letter badges. A revised bumper with integrated reflectors completes the transformation.
New Colour Options
Skoda has expanded the colour palette with three new shades:
| New Colours | Existing Colours |
|---|---|
| Shimla Green | Candy White |
| Cherry Red | Carbon Steel |
| Steel Grey | Brilliant Silver |
| Deep Black | |
| Lava Blue |
Skoda Kushaq Facelift Interior & Features: Comfort Meets Technology
Step inside the updated Kushaq, and the dashboard architecture remains familiar to owners of the pre-facelift model. However, several meaningful upgrades elevate the cabin experience.
Segment-First Features
The Skoda Kushaq Facelift introduces a rear seat massage function—a first-in-segment feature available on Prestige and Monte Carlo variants. This addresses a key customer demand for improved rear-seat comfort, particularly for chauffeur-driven occupants.
Sunroof Options
| Variant Level | Sunroof Type |
|---|---|
| Classic Plus, Signature, Sportline | Electric Sunroof |
| Prestige, Monte Carlo | Panoramic Sunroof |
For the first time, even the base variant receives an electric sunroof as standard, while higher trims get the much-demanded panoramic unit.
Digital Cockpit & Infotainment
| Display | Size | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 10.25-inch | Prestige, Monte Carlo |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 8-inch | Signature, Sportline |
| Touchscreen Infotainment | 10.1-inch | Signature and above |
The infotainment system now integrates with Skoda’s new Companion App powered by Google Automotive AI Agent. This context-aware voice assistant understands Indian English accents and enables hands-free control over media, calls, climate functions, and real-time information delivery.
Comfort & Convenience Features
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- 6-way electrically adjustable ventilated front seats
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Dual-colour ambient lighting (Signature onwards)
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Auto headlamps
- Wireless phone charger
- Alloy wheels standard across all variants
Skoda Kushaq Facelift Variants & Pricing Structure
The 2026 Kushaq is offered across five distinct variants:
| Variant | Character |
|---|---|
| Classic Plus | Value-oriented entry point |
| Signature | Feature-rich mid-spec |
| Sportline | Dynamic styling focus |
| Prestige | Premium equipment |
| Monte Carlo | Sporty flagship |
While official prices are awaited, the Skoda Kushaq Facelift is expected to range between ₹11 lakh to ₹19 lakh (ex-showroom). The Monte Carlo variant remains automatic-only and distinguishes itself with red brake calipers, exclusive alloy designs, and black-red interior upholstery.
Quick Pros & Cons
Pros
- 5-star Global NCAP safety rating retained
- Segment-first rear seat massage function
- New 8-speed automatic improves refinement
- Panoramic sunroof finally available
- AI-powered voice assistant
- Electric sunroof standard across the range
- Three new exterior colour options
- Proven and reliable TSI petrol engines
Cons
- No ADAS suite available
- 360-degree camera missing
- No electronic parking brake
- Diesel engine option absent
- Boot space unchanged at 491 litres
Skoda Kushaq Facelift Engine & Transmission Specifications
The powertrain lineup carries forward with refinements:
1.0-Litre TSI Petrol Engine
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 999cc |
| Power | 115 PS |
| Torque | 178 Nm |
| Transmission Options | 6-speed MT / 8-speed AT (New) |
| Fuel Efficiency (ARAI) | 18.09 – 19.76 kmpl |
1.5-Litre TSI Petrol Engine with ACT
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1498cc |
| Power | 150 PS |
| Torque | 250 Nm |
| Transmission | 7-speed DSG |
| Active Cylinder Technology | Yes |
| Brakes | Four-wheel disc (facelift exclusive) |
The introduction of a new 8-speed torque converter automatic for the 1.0-litre TSI engine is a significant addition. This transmission replaces the previous 6-speed unit in automatic variants, promising smoother gear transitions and improved fuel efficiency to meet upcoming CAFE 3 emission norms.
Skoda Kushaq Facelift Dimensions & Practicality
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 4,225 mm |
| Width | 1,760 mm |
| Height | 1,612 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,651 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 188 mm |
| Boot Space | 491 litres (1,405 litres seats folded) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 litres |
| Kerb Weight | 1,155 – 1,221 kg |
The dimensions remain unchanged from the pre-facelift model, maintaining the Kushaq’s established cabin space and practicality benchmarks.
Skoda Kushaq Facelift Safety Features
Safety has always been the Kushaq’s strongest suit, and the facelift reinforces this reputation.
Standard Safety Equipment
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 (Standard across all variants) |
| ABS with EBD | Standard |
| Electronic Stability Control | Standard |
| Hill Hold Assist | Standard |
| ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors | Standard |
| TPMS | Standard |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Standard |
| Rear Parking Camera | Standard |
Global NCAP Rating
The Kushaq retains its 5-star Global NCAP crash safety rating, achieved with an impressive adult occupant protection score. With over 25 active and passive safety features as standard, it continues to set benchmarks in segment safety.
What’s Missing
The Skoda Kushaq Facelift does not offer Level 2 ADAS or a 360-degree camera system—features now common among competitors like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Tata Sierra. Skoda has indicated that ADAS will be introduced gradually across its MQB-A0-IN platform vehicles.
Skoda Kushaq Facelift Competition Analysis
The updated Kushaq enters a segment that has never been more competitive:
| Competitor | Starting Price | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Creta | ₹11.00 lakh | Feature-loaded, ADAS available |
| Kia Seltos | ₹11.00 lakh | New generation, bold design |
| Maruti Grand Vitara | ₹10.99 lakh | Strong hybrid option |
| Tata Sierra | ₹14.50 lakh | Fresh design, ADAS suite |
| Volkswagen Taigun | ₹11.00 lakh | Platform sibling |
| Honda Elevate | ₹11.00 lakh | Spacious, comfortable |
The Kushaq’s differentiators remain its engaging driving dynamics, European build quality, and now the addition of segment-first features like rear seat massage.
Skoda Super Care: Ownership Benefits
Skoda backs the Kushaq Facelift with its comprehensive ownership package:
| Benefit | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Standard Warranty | 4 years / 1,00,000 km |
| Extended Warranty | Up to 6 years available |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 years |
| Labour-Free Services | 4 services / 2 years / 30,000 km |
| Corrosion Protection | Available as add-on |
| Paint Protection | Available as add-on |
Motors77 Verdict
The Skoda Kushaq Facelift represents a thoughtful evolution rather than a radical transformation. Skoda has clearly listened to customer feedback—the addition of a panoramic sunroof, rear seat massage function, and the new 8-speed automatic transmission address long-standing demands.
The design refresh brings visual freshness while maintaining the understated elegance that sets the Kushaq apart from more flamboyant rivals. The new AI-powered voice assistant adds a layer of modern convenience, though it remains to be seen how well the Indian accent recognition performs in real-world conditions.
However, the omission of ADAS and a 360-degree camera system is disappointing. In a segment where competitors are offering Level 2 autonomous driving aids as standard or optional equipment, Skoda’s decision to hold back these features may push safety-conscious buyers toward alternatives.
Who should buy the Skoda Kushaq Facelift?
The Kushaq remains the ideal choice for enthusiast buyers who prioritize driving dynamics, build quality, and proven mechanical reliability over feature count. If you value how a car drives over how many gadgets it offers, the Kushaq continues to be the segment benchmark.
Final Word: The Skoda Kushaq Facelift is a competent update that enhances an already solid product. While it may not match rivals feature-for-feature, it offers something increasingly rare in this segment—a genuinely enjoyable driving experience backed by European engineering standards and an impeccable safety record.
Motors77 Rating: 4/5
Pre-bookings for the Skoda Kushaq Facelift are now open at ₹15,000. Visit your nearest Skoda dealership or book online at skoda-auto.co.in. Deliveries commence March 2026.
Disclaimer: Prices mentioned are expected/estimated figures. Official variant-wise pricing will be announced by Skoda India. Specifications and features may vary by variant. Please verify details with authorised Skoda dealers before making a purchase decision.
