The updated mid-size SUV gets revised exterior styling, a more premium cabin, additional features, and a new transmission option. The Kushaq continues to compete with the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Tata Sierra, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Victoris, and Honda Elevate.
On the outside, the Kushaq facelift adopts Skoda’s latest Modern Solid design language. It gets new LED headlights with eyebrow-style DRLs and L-shaped signatures. These are connected by a segmented light bar in the grille, similar to the one found on the new Kodiaq. The front bumper has been redesigned and features an angular silver skid plate.
The Monte Carlo trim gets two red stripes on the grille, gloss black exterior elements instead of chrome, and exclusive badges.
The side profile remains largely unchanged apart from new alloy wheels ranging from 16 to 17 inches, depending on the variant. At the rear, the SUV gets a connected LED light bar with illuminated ‘SKODA’ lettering and sequential turn indicators.
Skoda has added three new colour options: Cherry Red, Shimla Green, and Steel Grey. The facelifted Kushaq measures 4,229 mm in length, making it 4 mm longer than the previous model. Width, height, and wheelbase remain unchanged. Boot space has increased from 385 litres to 491 litres, a gain of 106 litres.
Inside, the Kushaq facelift gets a more upmarket cabin. The Prestige trim features a black-and-beige theme, while the Monte Carlo variant gets a crimson colour scheme. The overall layout remains similar to the earlier model.
The SUV now comes with a new 10.25-inch digital driver’s display and a slightly larger 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It also gets dual-colour ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof. An electric sunroof is standard on the base variant.
The Kushaq facelift offers a segment-first rear-seat massage function. Other features include six-way powered front seats with ventilation, front parking sensors, leatherette seats, automatic climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a six-speaker sound system, and a wireless charging pad.
Skoda has integrated the Google Gemini AI assistant into the infotainment system. It enables access to news, real-time information, and hands-free control of in-car functions.
On safety, the Kushaq facelift comes with six airbags as standard. It also includes ABS with EBD, ESC, rain-sensing wipers, traction control, electronic differential lock, hill-hold assist, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, and an auto-dimming interior rearview mirror.
The model retains the 5-star Global NCAP rating of the earlier Kushaq. Under the skin, the facelifted Kushaq continues to use the MQB A0 IN platform.
The 1.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine produces 115 hp. It now gets a new eight-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, replacing the previous six-speed unit. A six-speed manual option remains available.
The 1.5-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine produces 150 hp and 250 Nm. It is offered only with a seven-speed DSG gearbox. Skoda has now added rear disc brakes to the 1.5 TSI variants.
