Skoda Auto India has officially revealed the facelifted Skoda Kushaq, bringing much-needed updates to keep its compact SUV competitive in the fast-evolving mid-size SUV market. The 2026 Kushaq facelift aims to attract both premium and performance-oriented buyers, offering new colors, feature-rich trims, a panoramic sunroof, updated interiors, and an improved automatic transmission.
Pre-launch bookings are already open, underlining Skoda’s confidence in its latest offering. Prices are expected to be announced soon.
Launch Timeline, Pricing, and Variants
- India Reveal: 2025
- Launch Date: Early 2026
- Expected Price: Starting at ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Trims Available: Five unique versions
The facelifted Kushaq is available in five trims, each catering to a different buyer segment. It sits above the Kylaq in Skoda’s India range.
Variant Lineup:
- Classic+
- Signature
- Sportline
- Prestige
- Monte Carlo (Sporty Edition with Top Features)
This approach allows Skoda to serve both value-focused buyers and those seeking a premium, sporty SUV experience.
Exterior Colors: More Choices and Fresh Appeal
A standout feature of the facelifted Kushaq is its expanded palette: eight exterior colors, including three brand-new shades and several two-tone options.
New Colors Introduced:
- Shimla Green
- Cherry Red
- Steel Grey
These additions give the Kushaq a modern, youthful vibe.
Color Availability by Variant:
- Classic+ excludes green, grey, and black.
- Signature adds black to its palette.
- Sportline and Prestige offer almost all colors.
- Carbon Steel isn’t available for Monte Carlo.
- Most colors (except blue and black) can be had in dual-tone on Monte Carlo.
Top Recommendations:
- High-end Look: Lava Blue, Steel Grey
- Sporty Appeal: Cherry Red, Deep Black
- Unique Presence: Two-tone Shimla Green
- Fan Favorite: Cherry Red Monte Carlo
Exterior Design: Sharper and More Premium
While the overall silhouette remains familiar, the facelift brings subtle yet impactful changes:
- Redesigned front grille
- New LED lighting
- Fresh alloy wheel designs
- Two-tone paint options on higher trims
- Sportier elements on Sportline and Monte Carlo
These refinements enhance the Kushaq’s premium stance without alienating current fans.
Interior Upgrades: Focus on Comfort and Luxury
Significant improvements inside the cabin aim to boost comfort, technology, and the sense of luxury.
Key Interior Features:
- New 10.25-inch digital driver’s display
- Panoramic sunroof (segment highlight)
- Rear seat massage function (segment first)
- Premium upholstery choices
- Upgraded trim and dashboard materials
These changes make the new Kushaq a compelling, upscale rival for the segment.
Features List: Technology Meets Everyday Comfort
The facelifted Kushaq is packed with features to meet modern expectations:
- Large touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Digital instrument cluster
- Front ventilated seats (expected)
- Automatic climate control
- Wireless charging
- Ambient lighting (select trims)
- Multiple drive modes
Powertrain: Reliable Engines, Smoother Gearbox
Skoda sticks with its proven turbo-petrol engines but introduces a new automatic transmission for enhanced driving comfort.
Engine & Transmission Options:
- 1.0L Turbo Petrol: 115 PS, 178 Nm, 6MT or new 8-speed AT
- 1.5L Turbo Petrol: 150 PS, 250 Nm, 7-speed DCT
What’s New?
- Replacement of the old torque converter with an 8-speed automatic
- Improved fuel efficiency and smoother shifting
- Enhanced driving experience both in the city and on highways
Safety and Build Quality
Safety remains a top priority with robust construction and advanced safety features:
- Multiple airbags
- ABS with EBD
- ESC and traction control
- Rear parking camera and sensors
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
Higher trims are expected to include advanced driver assistance features, matching segment bests.
Competition: Who Does the Kushaq Facelift Rival?
The new Kushaq enters a fiercely contested segment, going up against:
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Tata Sierra
- Maruti Suzuki Victoris
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
- Toyota Hyryder
- Honda Elevate
- MG Astor
- Volkswagen Taigun
Skoda aims to differentiate with features like a panoramic sunroof and rear massage seats.
Why the Kushaq Facelift Is Important
From a business standpoint, the facelift is crucial for Skoda as it:
- Bridges feature gaps with rivals
- Adds luxury and emotional appeal
- Introduces a better automatic transmission
- Expands color and trim choices
These enhancements make the Kushaq much more competitive for 2026.
Skoda’s Promise: Ownership Confidence
Skoda’s India strategy emphasizes:
- Improved service network
- Competitive maintenance packages
- Strong build quality
- European driving dynamics
The facelift further boosts buyer confidence in long-term ownership.
Price and Booking Status
- Expected Starting Price: ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Bookings: Open at dealerships and online
- Launch: Early 2026
Conclusion
The 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift delivers a harmonious blend of style, features, comfort, and performance. With striking new colors, a panoramic sunroof, luxurious interiors, and a refined automatic gearbox, it’s a strong contender for anyone seeking a European compact SUV with power and sophistication.
FAQs
Early 2026.
Five: Classic+, Signature, Sportline, Prestige, Monte Carlo.
Yes, the facelift introduces a panoramic sunroof.
Shimla Green, Cherry Red, and Steel Grey.
Yes, the 1.0-liter turbo-petrol now comes with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.