The Skoda Kushaq, since its debut in mid-2021, has been a turning point for the brand in India. Developed under the Volkswagen Group’s India 2.0 project, it marked Skoda’s first SUV engineered specifically for Indian buyers, blending European sophistication with local practicality.
Fast forward to 2026, the Kushaq is gearing up for its first major facelift, and expectations are sky-high. Skoda has invested heavily in design updates, interior upgrades, and new safety tech, ensuring the Kushaq remains relevant in India’s intensely competitive SUV segment dominated by the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Honda Elevate.
But this isn’t just a minor refresh — the 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift represents a step into Skoda’s new global era, adopting design inspiration from the Skoda Kylaq, the company’s latest international compact SUV.
Let’s explore everything we know so far about the 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift — design, interior, engine options, features, price, and launch timeline — and how it fits into Skoda’s long-term India roadmap.
1. Design Evolution — Sharper, Leaner, More Global
Skoda’s global design philosophy, known as “Modern Solid,” is now making its way to India through the 2026 Kushaq facelift. While the outgoing version is already one of the most proportionate SUVs in its class, the facelift takes things up a notch — it looks bolder, more planted, and more premium.
Front Fascia: New Face of Skoda India
The front gets the most dramatic makeover:
- A wider hexagonal grille finished in gloss black replaces the older chrome-heavy design.
- The LED Matrix headlights are slimmer, featuring crystalline detailing and integrated C-shaped daytime running lights inspired by the global Kylaq SUV.
- The lower bumper adopts triangular air intakes and a sculpted skid plate, giving the SUV a sportier stance.
The bonnet lines are more pronounced, lending the Kushaq facelift a muscular yet clean surface language — a hallmark of Skoda’s European aesthetic.
Profile and Stance
From the side, the silhouette remains familiar, but the attention to detail is elevated:
- Thicker body cladding enhances visual toughness.
- The wheel arches have been slightly flared to improve stance and aerodynamics.
- New dual-tone diamond-cut alloys (17-inch standard, 18-inch on higher trims) complement the proportions.
- Chrome accents have been replaced with satin brushed metal, aligning with the more mature “Modern Solid” design theme.
The overall stance is more grounded and confident, closely resembling the Skoda Kylaq — the SUV that sets the design benchmark for Skoda’s next generation.
Rear Design
The rear tailgate is fully redesigned for visual width:
- A connected LED taillight strip stretches across the rear, replacing the older split design.
- The Skoda lettering is now embossed across the tailgate instead of a badge.
- A sculpted bumper with contrast black and silver finish gives the SUV a premium touch.
Together, the front and rear updates make the Kushaq facelift look more expensive than it is — a key differentiator in a segment crowded with flashy but less cohesive designs.
👉 See full breakdown of 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift design, exterior updates, and styling changes
2. Dimensions and Aerodynamics
While the basic MQB-A0-IN platform and wheelbase remain unchanged, Skoda engineers have fine-tuned the aerodynamics for better efficiency and stability.
| Dimension | 2021 Kushaq | 2026 Kushaq (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,225 mm | 4,320 mm |
| Width | 1,760 mm | 1,800 mm |
| Height | 1,612 mm | 1,630 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,651 mm | 2,651 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 188 mm | 185–190 mm |
| Drag Coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 | 0.32 |
The minor increase in length and width allows for subtle changes in the bumper and fender designs, while improved aerodynamics contribute to quieter cruising and better mileage — a win for both performance and refinement.
3. Interior — Minimalist Luxury with Smarter Tech
Step inside, and you immediately feel the upgrade. The 2026 Kushaq interior embraces the Skoda Kylaq-inspired horizontal architecture, combining simplicity with substance.
Dashboard and Layout
- The dashboard is cleaner, with fewer buttons and a floating 10.1-inch infotainment screen.
- A new soft-touch upper dash replaces hard plastics.
- The central console is redesigned with a sleek gear lever and repositioned storage trays.
- A multi-layered ambient lighting strip now runs across the dashboard, adding visual depth at night.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Skoda’s latest MySkoda Connect+ system debuts here, offering:
- Over-the-air (OTA) updates
- Voice assistant support
- Real-time vehicle tracking
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Integrated navigation with live traffic data
Digital Cockpit and Comfort Features
- A new 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster replaces the analog dials, offering hybrid power flow, trip info, and ADAS readouts.
- Ventilated and powered front seats, dual-zone climate control, rear AC vents, and a panoramic sunroof elevate comfort.
- Improved NVH insulation and door sealing ensure a quieter cabin at highway speeds.
| Interior Feature | 2021 Kushaq | 2026 Kushaq Facelift (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Screen | 10-inch | 10.1-inch new-gen |
| Instrument Cluster | Semi-digital | Full 10.25-inch digital |
| Climate Control | Single-zone | Dual-zone automatic |
| Seat Upholstery | Leatherette | Dual-tone ventilated leather |
| Sunroof | Single-pane | Panoramic glass roof |
The facelift takes Skoda’s “Simply Clever” ethos further with storage hooks, umbrella slots, and wireless charging pads, making it one of the most functional interiors in its class.
👉 See full breakdown of 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift interior, comfort, and technology features
4. Powertrain Options — Efficient and Proven
Skoda’s TSI engines have long been its biggest strength, and the 2026 facelift continues with the tried-and-tested 1.0L and 1.5L turbo-petrols, now refined for smoother performance and better emissions.
| Engine Type | Displacement | Power (PS) | Torque (Nm) | Transmission Options | Mileage (Expected) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0L TSI | 999cc, 3-cyl turbo | 115 | 178 | 6MT / 6AT | 18–19 km/l |
| 1.5L TSI EVO | 1498cc, 4-cyl turbo | 150 | 250 | 6MT / 7DSG | 17–18 km/l |
The 1.5L EVO engine uses Active Cylinder Technology (ACT) — automatically shutting off two cylinders under low load to save fuel.
Skoda is also reportedly testing a mild-hybrid version of the 1.5 TSI for global markets. If introduced, it could make the 2026 Kushaq the brand’s first hybrid SUV in India.
👉 See full breakdown of 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift engine, mileage, and performance review
5. Driving Dynamics — The Skoda Edge
One of the biggest reasons enthusiasts love the Kushaq is its driving feel — planted, predictable, and European in character. The facelift keeps that DNA intact but improves ride quality and stability.
Key Enhancements
- Retuned suspension with a slightly softer spring rate for Indian roads.
- Sharper steering calibration for improved feedback at higher speeds.
- Reduced body roll thanks to enhanced chassis rigidity and aerodynamic optimization.
Test mules have hinted at better ride composure on broken surfaces — a critical improvement for Indian buyers transitioning from sedans to SUVs.
6. Safety — ADAS Joins the 5-Star Legacy
The 2021 Kushaq made headlines as India’s first 5-star Global NCAP-rated SUV under new protocols. The facelift goes a step further by introducing Level 2 ADAS features and more structural enhancements.
Safety Features
- 6 airbags standard across most trims
- ESC, traction control, hill-hold assist
- Rear parking camera (now 360° in top variant)
- Blind-spot detection and lane-keep assist
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go function
- Tyre pressure monitoring and front collision warning
This brings the Kushaq in line with newer rivals like the Seltos facelift and MG Astor, while retaining its mechanical safety edge — a robust monocoque body and consistent crash-test pedigree.
7. Skoda Kylaq Connection — A Glimpse of What’s Next
The Skoda Kylaq, unveiled in 2024 for Europe, acts as a design and technology benchmark for the Kushaq facelift. While the Kylaq is larger, it shares several components and stylistic traits with the Indian model.
| Feature Comparison | Skoda Kylaq (Europe) | Skoda Kushaq Facelift (India) |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | MQB-A2 | MQB-A0-IN |
| Engine | 1.5 TSI Mild-Hybrid | 1.0 & 1.5 TSI |
| Lighting | Matrix LED | LED / Matrix (ZX trim) |
| Infotainment | 13-inch touchscreen | 10.1-inch touchscreen |
| ADAS | Full suite (L2) | Partial suite (L2 limited) |
The Kylaq’s influence ensures the facelifted Kushaq aligns with Skoda’s global brand language, while remaining affordable and regionally tuned.
8. Pricing and Variants — Premium Value Retained
Despite upgrades, Skoda plans to maintain an accessible pricing structure to stay competitive.
Expected Variant-Wise Price (Ex-Showroom, India)
| Variant | Engine | Transmission | Expected Price (₹ lakh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active | 1.0L TSI | 6MT | 12.2 |
| Ambition | 1.0L TSI | 6AT | 13.9 |
| Style | 1.5L TSI | 6MT / DSG | 16.9 – 17.9 |
| Monte Carlo | 1.5L TSI | 7DSG | 18.5 |
| L&K (Top) | 1.5L TSI | 7DSG | 19.8 |
Expected on-road prices:
- Delhi: ₹22.5 lakh (top trim)
- Mumbai: ₹23 lakh
- Bengaluru: ₹23.4 lakh
Finance and Warranty
Skoda is likely to extend its 4-year/100,000 km warranty, with optional 6-year/150,000 km coverage, along with Skoda Maintenance Packages (SMP) to reduce ownership costs.
👉 See full breakdown of 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift price, variants, and city-wise on-road cost
9. Launch Timeline — Early 2026 Arrival
All indicators point toward an early 2026 launch window.
- Global Unveil: December 2025
- Pre-bookings: January 2026
- Official Launch: February–March 2026
- Deliveries: Q2 2026
Production will continue at Chakan, Pune, which remains the heart of Skoda’s India operations and exports to ASEAN and Latin American markets.
10. Rivals and Market Position
By the time it arrives, the Kushaq facelift will face a strong set of rivals, all updated with hybrid or EV powertrains.
| Rival | USP |
|---|---|
| Hyundai Creta (2025) | Segment leader, full ADAS, panoramic roof |
| Kia Seltos (2024) | Tech-loaded, powerful turbo variants |
| Honda Elevate (2025 Hybrid) | Refined, practical, reliable |
| Maruti Grand Vitara | Hybrid efficiency, mass reach |
| MG Astor (Hybrid) | Futuristic design, connected features |
The Kushaq’s edge remains its driving dynamics, safety record, and premium European feel. With the facelift, Skoda is bridging the tech gap without compromising its signature solid build.
👉 See full breakdown of 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift vs rivals: Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos & Maruti Grand Vitara
11. Why the 2026 Skoda Kushaq Matters for India
The 2026 Kushaq facelift will likely be a turning point not only for Skoda but for the premium compact SUV segment itself. It demonstrates that a car doesn’t have to chase volume to define value — it can win hearts through design integrity, safety, and quality.
- It marks Skoda’s entry into ADAS-equipped SUVs under ₹20 lakh.
- It gives the brand a clear identity between affordable Japanese rivals and feature-heavy Korean SUVs.
- It forms the foundation for Skoda’s India 3.0 strategy, leading to hybrid and EV introductions by 2027.
12. FAQs — 2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift (India)
Q1. When will the 2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift launch in India?
Around February–March 2026, following an official reveal in late 2025.
Q2. What are the new features expected?
A panoramic sunroof, 10.25-inch digital cockpit, 360° camera, and Level 2 ADAS.
Q3. Will the Kushaq get a hybrid or diesel version?
Only petrol TSI engines initially; a mild-hybrid may arrive later.
Q4. What is the expected price range?
₹12.2–19.8 lakh (ex-showroom).
Q5. How does it compare to the Kylaq SUV?
The Kushaq facelift borrows design and interior cues from the Kylaq but remains localized and more compact.
