Skoda Auto India Unveils Refreshed 2026 Kushaq SUV
Skoda Auto India has officially launched the 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift in the Indian market today. This marks the first major update for the popular SUV since its initial debut back in 2021. The company is introducing the new model with a range of cosmetic enhancements, a revised interior packed with additional features, and attractive warranty offers.
Variant Lineup and Booking Details
The 2026 Skoda Kushaq will be available in five distinct variants to cater to different customer preferences. These include the Classic Plus, Signature, Sportline, Prestige, and the sporty Monte Carlo edition. Interested buyers can now start pre-booking the vehicle either online through Skoda's official channels or by visiting their nearest dealership.
While the exact pricing details are still under wraps, Skoda is expected to announce the official prices in February 2026. The company has confirmed that customer deliveries will commence from March 2026. To boost buyer confidence, Skoda is offering an extended warranty package. This includes up to six years of standard warranty, a six-year corrosion warranty, and a three-year warranty for the paint finish.
Exterior Design Updates
The overall silhouette of the Kushaq remains familiar, but Skoda has given it a significant facelift at both ends. The front fascia now sports a completely redesigned grille with elegant chrome accents. It features slimmer headlamps and a new LED daytime running light signature that stretches across the width of the grille, creating a more modern look.
The lower section gets a fresh skid plate, and the bumper adopts a stylish honeycomb pattern. Side profile changes are more subtle but effective. The SUV rolls on newly designed 17-inch alloy wheels and features thicker black cladding, which enhances its rugged road presence.
At the rear, the updates include a redesigned tailgate with new connecting LED taillights. A prominent glowing 'SKODA' lettering adds a premium touch. Other exterior highlights consist of a shark fin antenna, a silver skid plate, a rear wiper with washer, functional roof rails, and an integrated spoiler.
Interior and Feature Upgrades
Inside the cabin, the basic layout is retained with thoughtful refinements. The Kushaq continues to offer a capacitive climate control panel, a two-spoke steering wheel, and well-organized control panels. Feature-wise, the SUV gets a substantial upgrade.
It now boasts a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Drivers are treated to a 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster. The audio experience is enhanced by a six-speaker Skoda sound system, complete with a subwoofer and amplifier.
Comfort features include automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and leatherette seats. The front seats are electrically adjustable and come with ventilation for added comfort. A notable addition is an AI companion powered by Google, providing intuitive assistance. The Kushaq also introduces a segment-first rear seat massager, elevating passenger comfort.
Safety and Powertrain
Safety remains a top priority for Skoda. The 2026 Kushaq is equipped with six airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and traction control. It also features cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, and all-wheel disc brakes.
Convenience is further boosted by rain-sensing wipers, a defogger, and an auto-dimming interior rearview mirror (IRVM). Impressively, the Kushaq has secured a five-star safety rating from Global NCAP for both adult and child occupant protection.
While detailed powertrain specifications are yet to be fully disclosed, the SUV is expected to continue with efficient and reliable engine options. It will compete fiercely in the crowded compact SUV segment against rivals like the Volkswagen Taigun, Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, Tata Sierra, and the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza.
