January 20, 2026 – Skoda Auto Indiahas officially unveiled the updated Kushaq in the Indian market, reinforcing its strategy to make European engineering more accessible to the Indian road environment.
This compact SUV features segment-first technologies. Expanded convenience features and safety packages were applied, including a torque converter-type 8-speed automatic transmission and a rear seat massage function.
This model continues the success of Kushaq, which has sold more than 94,900 units since its launch in 2021 and is exported to growth markets such as Vietnam, the Middle East, and Africa. This update supports the brand’s plans to establish India as its second strategic foothold outside Europe.
Made in India, for India
Based on the MQB-A0-IN platform, Kushaq was jointly developed by teams in India and the Czech Republic, with a focus on cost-effectiveness and adaptation to local conditions. While maintaining elements that have been well-received by customers, such as electric front seats with ventilation, cruise control, a rearview camera with sensors, wireless charging, and ample interior space, new convenience and technical specifications have been added.
First release of Modern Solid design and Monte Carlo version
The exterior adopts the Modern Solid design language, featuring a new front grille and light bar with chrome ribs. The front is equipped with full LED headlamps, front parking sensors, and LED fog lights. At the rear, connected tail lamps with sequentially lit turn signals and an illuminated Škoda logo emphasize the brand identity.
There are a total of 8 body colors, including new colors Shimla Green, Steel Gray, and Cherry Red. Additionally, a sporty Monte Carlo version will be offered for the first time upon launch.
Turbo engine and new automatic transmission
Maintaining a ground clearance of 188mm, the updated Kushaq introduces a new 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission and is paired with the 1.0 TSI engine. This engine produces 85 kW (116 horsepower) and 178 Nm of torque, and a 6-speed manual transmission is also available.
The 1.5 TSI engine provides 110kW (150 horsepower) and 250Nm and is equipped with Active Cylinder Technology. This engine is exclusively combined with a 7-speed DSG, and 4-wheel disc brakes are standard for this specification.
AI assistant based on Google technology
One of the key features is a new 10.1-inch infotainment system that supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. This system is equipped with an advanced voice assistant based on Google Automotive AI Agent integrated with Gemini, allowing navigation, music, calls, and air conditioning to be controlled with context-sensitive voice commands.
The assistant was developed for the Indian market and recognizes various Indian English accents to provide more natural and inclusive interactions.
Enhanced Safety Specifications
The updated Kushaq maintains the global NCAP 5-star rating and provides more than 25 active and passive safety features, including 6 airbags, as standard across all trims. The upper trims offer over 40 safety items. In addition, additional improvements such as rear wiper and defogger and automatic wiper with rain sensor improve visibility and safety in various weather conditions.
Source and image: Škoda UK. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
