20 January 2026 – Skoda Auto India has officially introduced the updated Kushaq in the Indian market, cementing its strategy of making European engineering more accessible to the country’s roads.
The compact SUV comes with segment-first technologies including a new 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission and even a massage function for the rear seats, along with an expanded package of standard equipment and safety features.
The model builds on the success of the Kushaq launched in 2021, which has sold over 94,900 units so far and is being exported to emerging markets such as Vietnam, the Middle East and Africa. The update also supports the brand’s plans to make India Skoda’s second strategic pillar outside Europe.
Made in India, for India
Developed on the MQB-A0-IN platform, Kushaq has been designed by teams from India and Czech Republic to suit cost-effective and local conditions. The SUV retains customer-loved features like ventilated electric front seats, cruise control, rear camera with sensors, wireless charging and good cabin space, which are now complemented with new features and technology.
Modern Solid Design and First Offering of Monte Carlo Variant
In terms of design, Kushaq has adopted Modern Solid design language, which includes a new front grille with chrome elements and illuminated light strip. The front now has full LED headlamps, front parking sensors and LED fog lamps. At the rear, connected taillamps with sequential indicators and the illuminated Skoda name strengthen its visual identity.
The model will be available in eight colours, including three new options: Shimla Green, Steel Grey, and Cherry Red. For the first time, a sporty Monte Carlo variant has also been made available with the launch.
Turbo engine and new automatic transmission
Retaining the ground clearance of 188 mm, the updated Kushaq gets a new 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission with the 1.0 TSI engine, which produces 85 kW (116 hp) of power and 178 Nm of torque. This engine is also available with 6-speed manual gearbox.
The 1.5 TSI engine produces 110 kW (150 hp) and 250 Nm of torque, features Active Cylinder Technology, and is offered only with a 7-speed DSG transmission. In this variant the SUV also gets disc brakes on all four wheels.
AI Assistant with Google technology
Key features of the model include a new 10.1-inch infotainment system, which is compatible with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It features an advanced voice assistant based on Google Automotive AI Agent with Gemini integration, which allows context-based voice commands for navigation, music, calls and climate control.
Developed with the local market in mind, the Assistant can recognize different pronunciations of Indian English, making usage more intuitive and inclusive.
better security
The updated Kushaq maintains a five-star NCAP rating globally and now offers over 25 active and passive safety features including six airbags as standard across all variants. This number exceeds 40 in top variants. Additional features like rear wiper and defogger and rain-sensor based automatic wipers improve visibility and safety in varying weather conditions.
Source and photos: Skoda UK. This content is generated with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
