Skoda Kushaq facelift: Five pros and cons to know before buying

Skoda Auto India recently launched the new Skoda Kushaq facelift in the Indian market. The new Kushaq is offered in five variants: Classic Plus, Signature, Sportline, Prestige, Monte Carlo and is priced between Rs 10.69 lakh and Rs 18.99 lakh (both prices, ex-showroom). Interested customers can book the car online or visit their nearest dealership. Deliveries are expected to begin soon. The SUV continues to compete with the VW Taigun, Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, Tata Sierra and Maruti Suzuki Victoris.



In this article, let’s take a look at five pros and cons of the new Skoda Kushaq facelift.

Pros

Generously equipped base variant

As mentioned before, the new Kushaq is offered in five variants: Classic Plus, Signature, Sportline, Prestige, and Monte Carlo. The entry-level Classic Plus trim stands out as one of the most feature-rich offerings in the C-SUV segment, with several premium and convenience features provided as standard. In contrast, many rivals limit such features to higher variants. The SUV features 16-inch alloy wheels right from the base variant, eliminating the compromise of steel wheels with covers. Another major highlight is the inclusion of an electric sunroof, a feature typically limited to mid or top trims in rival models, which is offered here, allowing buyers seeking a sunroof to access it without upgrading to costlier variants.

The base variant also comes equipped with full LED headlamps and tail lamps, along with sequential turn indicators, enhancing visibility and exterior appeal over halogen units. It also offers automatic climate control, allowing users to set a preferred cabin temperature while the system adjusts cooling automatically.




An 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission is available as an option on this entry-level variant. The model also includes rain-sensing wipers and practical features such as a rear washer and wiper, and a rear defogger are provided as standard, improving rear visibility in dusty, rainy or humid conditions. The SUV is also equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for smartphone connectivity.

With features such as a sunroof, alloy wheels, automatic climate control and an automatic transmission option available from the base variant, the 2026 Skoda Kushaq Classic Plus broadens expectations for entry-level C-SUVs. It positions itself as a strong option for buyers seeking key features without moving to higher variants.

5-star GNCAP safety rating

The Skoda Kushaq has secured full five stars in both adult and child occupant crash tests. The SUV has secured 29.64 points in the adult occupant protection test out of a maximum of 34 points. In the child occupant protection test, it has secured 42 points out of a possible 49. Talking about the safety features, all variants are equipped with six airbags and more than 25 active and passive safety features, including electronic stability control, hill hold assist, speed-sensing door locks, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, rear parking sensors and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

The 2026 Skoda Kushaq also adds more advanced safety features on higher variants. While rear parking sensors are standard, front parking sensors are offered on higher trims, along with a reverse camera from the variant above the base. These variants also include cruise control, all-wheel disc brakes and remote car operation.

Segment first rear massage seats

The Skoda Kushaq offers a rear seat massage function on select higher variants, a feature that remains uncommon in the compact SUV segment. Integrated into the rear backrest, the system uses built-in motors to create gentle movements aimed at improving passenger comfort. The feature is intended to reduce fatigue on longer journeys, particularly for rear occupants. While seat ventilation and adjustment features are increasingly common, rear seat massage functions are typically seen in more premium vehicles. Its inclusion indicates a growing focus on rear passenger comfort in this segment.

Anytime warranty of up to 8 years

Skoda is offering its Super Care package as standard with the Kushaq, combining multiple ownership benefits aimed at reducing maintenance concerns. It includes a 4-year or 1,00,000 km warranty, covering manufacturing defects within this period. Buyers also get four years of roadside assistance, which covers services such as towing, minor repairs, battery support and breakdown assistance. The package further includes four labour-free services for up to two years or 30,000 km, helping lower routine servicing costs, although charges for parts and consumables continue to apply.

Skoda also offers extended warranty options of up to eight years, along with separate corrosion and paint warranties, subject to terms and conditions. Overall, the package provides a mix of warranty coverage and service support, helping buyers better manage maintenance costs during the initial years of ownership.

Powerful, smooth 1.5-litre TSI engine

The 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, turbo petrol EVO engine in the Kushaq is among the more refined and higher-output options in its segment, balancing performance and efficiency. It offers smooth power delivery aided by its four-cylinder configuration and tuning, helping reduce vibrations across driving conditions. The engine also includes cylinder deactivation technology, which shuts down two cylinders under light load to improve fuel efficiency during steady cruising.

Cons

No option of diesel, CNG or hybrid

The Skoda Kushaq is offered only with petrol engine options, with no diesel, CNG or hybrid variants available, limiting access to alternative fuel choices often preferred for better efficiency or lower running costs. The absence of a diesel option may affect buyers with high annual usage, especially those who drive long distances on highways. The lack of a factory-fitted CNG variant also reduces options for users looking to lower fuel expenses in city conditions.

There is no hybrid option either, which could have provided improved efficiency and lower emissions. As a result, the Kushaq’s lineup remains focused on petrol engines, with an emphasis on performance and refinement. While this simplifies the range, it may reduce its appeal for buyers prioritising fuel economy or alternative powertrain options.

No 360-degree camera

The Skoda Kushaq does not include a 360-degree camera, a feature now offered by most rivals and even some models in lower segments. A 360-degree camera gives a surround view of the vehicle, aiding parking, manoeuvring in tight spaces and navigating congested areas, especially where visibility is limited. Its absence may be a drawback for buyers who prioritise convenience and ease of driving.

No ADAS

The Skoda Kushaq does not offer Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), features now available in many rivals and some models in lower segments. ADAS includes functions such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking and blind spot monitoring, using sensors and cameras to monitor surroundings and assist the driver. In regular use, these systems can reduce driver effort and improve safety by issuing alerts or intervening in potential risk situations. They can help maintain distance on highways, keep the vehicle within its lane and apply brakes if needed. These features are particularly useful during long drives, in heavy traffic or when driver fatigue may affect response times, contributing to overall safety. Their absence in the Kushaq may be a factor for buyers seeking additional driver assistance and safety technology.

Reverse camera resolutionThe Skoda Kushaq’s reverse camera is functional but does not match the quality offered by several rivals in the segment. The resolution appears dated, with lower clarity compared to newer systems, and visibility reduces further in low-light conditions, affecting distance judgement. It remains usable for regular parking and tight manoeuvres, supported by guiding lines. However, given the model’s positioning, the camera quality is an area that could be improved.

Limited rear boot space

The 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift offers 491 litres of boot space, measured up to the roof, an increase of 106 litres over the previous model, improving its overall practicality. The capacity can be expanded to 1,405 litres by folding the 60:40 split rear seats, providing flexibility to carry larger items when required. Despite this increase, its boot space remains lower than some rivals that offer higher cargo capacity, which may be a factor for buyers prioritising luggage space. For regular use, the available space is sufficient for daily needs such as groceries or small luggage, though it may feel limited when compared with competitors.