The Skoda Kushaq was first launched in 2021 under the Skoda-Volkswagen Group’s India 2.0 strategy and is based on the MQB-A0-IN platform, which was specifically developed for Indian conditions. It has turned out to be a successful compact-SUV, but was due for an update. Now, Skoda has finally taken the wraps off the facelifted Kushaq which brings with it a more modern styling, more features and even a mechanical update in the form of a new 8-speed torque converter gearbox. Here is everything you need to know about the new Skoda Kushaq facelift.
Skoda Kushaq facelift Design
Up front, the 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift gets a refreshed look with new sleeker LED headlamps, a new connected DRL light bar – a design element we have previously seen on the Kodiaq. The SUV also features a redesigned front bumper with updated skid plates, adding a more rugged appeal. Additionally, the fog lamps have been repositioned slightly lower and are neatly integrated into the bumper, giving the Kushaq a cleaner and more cohesive front-end design. Changes to the side profile are minimal, but the higher variants now ride on a 17-inch alloy with a fresh design. At the rear, the Skoda Kodiaq now gets sleeker LED taillamps with an illuminated Skoda logo. It also gets a redesigned bumper and skid plate. Skoda has also introduced 3 new exterior colour options with the facelift — Shimla Green, Cherry Red, and Steel Grey.
Skoda Kushaq facelift Engine and Gearbox
The Kushaq continues with the tried and tested 1-litre TSI and the entu-cutlet-favourite 1.5-litre TSI engines, but there is an update. The brand has introduced an all-new 8-speed torque converter gearbox, on the 1-litre TSI engine (replacing the 6-speed unit) with an aim to improve fuel efficiency. Power figures remain unchanged – the 1-litre mill makes 114bhp and 178Nm of torque. This engine can also be paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The 1.5-litre TSI engine which produces 148bhp and 250Nm of torque, continues with the 7-speed DSG.
Skoda Kushaq facelift Interior and Features
The overall interior layout stays the same as before, but the Kushaq gets a digital driver’s display inspired by its elder siblings – the Kodiaq and the Octavia. It gets an all-new dual-tone theme in the interior, making the cabin look more spacious. Skoda is offering 5 dual-tone colour options for the interior. It also gets powered seats with ventilation, both for the driver and the co-driver. Other new features include panoramic sunroof, massage function for the rear seats which is a segment first (it’s also first on a car this side of a crore), rain-sensing wipers, and a new user interface for the 10.1-inch infotainment screen which offers wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.
Skoda Kushaq facelift Variants, Expected Price and Rivals
The Skoda Kushaq will be available in 5 trim options — Classic+, Signature, Sportline, Prestige, and Monte Carlo. We expect that the Skoda Kushaq will be priced from ₹11.49 lakh to ₹19.99 lakh (ex-showroom) which is about ₹50,000 to a lakh more considering the upgrades and the exterior changes. The 2026 Kushaq will rival the likes of Tata Sierra, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Victoris, Honda Elevate, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Volkswagen Taigun.
