India, Jan 20, 2026: Skoda Auto India has officially revealed the 2026 Kushaq facelift, the first significant update to the popular mid‑size SUV since its launch in 2021. The refreshed model debuts with a reworked exterior, upgraded interior, new feature list and expanded transmission choices, as bookings open ahead of the price announcement and deliveries scheduled for later this year.
The updated Kushaq aims to strengthen its appeal in India’s fiercely competitive mid‑size SUV segment, where rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra and Maruti Suzuki Victoris are pushing modern design, tech and comfort features.
Exterior Refresh and Design Changes
The facelifted Kushaq features a striking new design that reflects Skoda’s evolving “Modern Solid” design language. At the front, the SUV sports a new grille with segmented LED elements, inspired by higher‑end Skoda models, and redesigned LED headlamps integrated into a bold new fascia. The bumper and front profile have been reshaped for a stronger road presence.
On the side, the SUV benefits from a new set of alloy wheel designs that enhance visual appeal. At the rear, updated LED taillights are connected by a sleek light bar, and an illuminated Skoda logo replaces the traditional badge on some variants, giving the back end a more modern and refined look.
Three fresh exterior colours have been added to the palette – Shimla Green, Cherry Red and Steel Grey – broadening the customization options available to buyers.
Interior Upgrades and Feature Highlights
Inside, Skoda has taken a step toward a more premium feel with notable comfort and technology upgrades:
- Electric sunroof as standard on base models and a panoramic sunroof on higher variants.
- A unique rear‑seat massage function, a segment‑first feature aimed at enhancing passenger comfort on longer journeys.
- 10.25‑inch digital instrument cluster and a 10‑inch touchscreen infotainment system with modern graphics and connectivity features.
- Leatherette interiors, ventilated and electrically adjustable front seats, ambient lighting and front parking sensors add to the comfort and convenience pack.
- Safety equipment remains solid, with six airbags standard, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), traction control and other protective systems expected to carry over.
These mechanical and tech upgrades reflect Skoda’s intent to bring the Kushaq more in line with customer expectations for comfort and connected‑car experience.
Powertrain and Transmission Options
Under the hood, the facelifted Kushaq retains its familiar 1.0‑litre and 1.5‑litre TSI petrol engines. However, there’s a key update on the gearbox front:
- The 1.0‑litre engine now gets a new eight‑speed torque converter automatic transmission – the first of its kind in this segment from Skoda – in addition to the traditional six‑speed manual.
- The 1.5‑litre TSI engine continues with the seven‑speed DSG automatic, and now receives four‑wheel disc brakes for improved stopping performance.
These additions are designed to broaden the SUV’s appeal by offering smoother automatic gearing for urban and highway driving while retaining efficient manual and DSG options for enthusiasts and varied driving conditions.
Variants, Pricing and Market Position
While official prices are pending, early estimates for the facelifted Kushaq range from roughly ₹11.00 lakh to ₹19.00 lakh (ex‑showroom), similar to the outgoing SUV’s pricing band but updated to reflect new features and equipment.
Skoda plans to offer the facelift across several variants, including Classic Plus, Signature, Sportline, Prestige and Monte Carlo trims, giving buyers a wide spectrum of choices for performance, comfort and styling.
Positioning and Segment Competitiveness
The Kushaq facelift arrives at a crucial time, with rival manufacturers continuously updating their mid‑size SUV offerings. Key competitors include the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra, Maruti Suzuki Victoris and Honda Elevate, each with its own mix of design, features and value propositions.
By adding premium comfort features like rear massage seats, panoramic sunroof and enhanced seating options, Skoda appears determined to differentiate the Kushaq as a more comfort‑oriented SUV within its class. The refreshed design language and expanded gearbox options also aim to counter the appeal of rivals that have recently upgraded their cabins and drivetrains.
Bookings, Deliveries and Outlook
Bookings for the 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift are open at authorised dealerships across India, with a token booking amount reported at approximately ₹15,000. Deliveries are expected to commence by the end of March 2026, aligning with peak buying interest in the first quarter of the year.
Overall, the Kushaq facelift marks a meaningful evolution for the model, combining design refinement, enhanced comfort features and updated mechanical options that reflect evolving buyer expectations in the compact SUV segment. Whether these updates are enough to shift market dynamics will become clearer as the facelifted Kushaq hits the road and competes with well‑established rivals.
