New Škoda Kushaq 2026: Redefining the Mid-Size SUV Segment in India
Škoda Auto India has officially unveiled the updated 2026 Škoda Kushaq, a vehicle that continues the brand’s commitment to democratising European technology for Indian drivers. Building on the success of the original India 2.0 strategy, the new Kushaq arrives with significant upgrades in design, powertrain efficiency, and premium features, making it one of the most comprehensive packages in its class.
Design Philosophy: Modern Solid and European Elegance
The new Kushaq marks a shift in aesthetics, interpreting Škoda’s Modern Solid design philosophy. This approach blends the brand’s distinctive European design legacy with a rugged, solid character that resonates with Indian SUV buyers.
Exterior Highlights
- Illuminated Front Grille: The all-new front grille houses chrome ribs and a striking Illuminated Light Band, giving the vehicle a high-tech signature.
- Advanced Lighting: The front features all-new LED headlights and LED fog lamps.
- Connected Rear Profile: At the back, you will find new connected taillights with sequential turn indicators.
- Illuminated Branding: A standout visual cue is the Illuminated Škoda lettering bridging the connected taillights.
- Standard Alloy Wheels: Enhancing its sporty profile, alloy wheels are now standard across all variants, from the base Classic+ to the top-tier Monte Carlo.
Expanded Color Palette
For 2026, Škoda has introduced several vibrant new colors to cater to evolving tastes:
- Shimla Green (New)
- Cherry Red (New)
- Steel Grey (New)
- Existing Options: Candy White, Carbon Steel, Brilliant Silver, Lava Blue, and Deep Black.
Performance: The Era of Real Automatics
Škoda Auto India is reinforcing its reputation for performance by offering a range of real automatics and turbocharged engines across the entire lineup.
All-New 8-Speed Torque Converter
The most significant mechanical update is the introduction of a segment-first eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission. This gearbox is mated to the efficient 1.0 TSI engine, which delivers 85kW (approximately 115 PS) and 178Nm of torque. This new transmission offers a smoother, more refined driving experience compared to the previous 6-speed unit.
Performance-Focused 1.5 TSI
For enthusiasts, the 1.5 TSI engine remains the benchmark in the segment, producing 110kW (150 PS) and 250Nm of torque.
- Transmission: It is mated exclusively to the quick-shifting seven-speed DSG automatic.
- Braking Power: In a critical update, the 1.5 TSI variants now come equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels for enhanced safety and stopping power.
- Efficiency: This four-cylinder engine features Active Cylinder Technology, which deactivates two cylinders under low load to save fuel.
Engine and Transmission Matrix
| Engine | Power | Torque | Transmission Options |
| 1.0 TSI | 85kW | 178Nm | 6-speed Manual / 8-speed Torque Converter |
| 1.5 TSI | 110kW | 250Nm | 7-speed DSG Automatic |
Interior Comfort: A First-Class Experience
The interior of the 2026 Kushaq has been elevated to provide a more immersive and comfortable in-cabin experience.
Segment-First Comfort Features
- Rear Seat Massage Function: For the first time in this segment, rear passengers can enjoy a massage function, making long journeys far more relaxing.
- Panoramic Sunroof: Another first for the Kushaq is the Panoramic Sunroof, available on higher trims (Prestige and Monte Carlo).
- Electric Front Seats: The driver and co-driver benefit from 6-way electrically adjustable seats with ventilation.
Practicality and Space
Despite the focus on luxury, the Kushaq remains a practical family SUV:
- Boot Space: It offers a generous 491 litres of storage, expandable to 1,405 litres with the rear seats folded.
- Ground Clearance: A healthy 188 mm of maximum ground clearance ensures it can handle rough Indian roads with ease.
Technology: AI Integration with Gemini
Škoda is setting a new benchmark for vehicle connectivity in India with a next-generation infotainment system.
Google-Powered AI Companion
The new 10.1-inch (25.6 cm) infotainment screen features an AI Companion powered by Google. This system brings Gemini into the vehicle, creating a context-aware voice assistant.
- Capabilities: The AI can provide real-time news and trends, while allowing hands-free operation of calls, music, and Climatronic Auto AC.
- Localization: The system is specifically tuned to recognize Indian English accents, ensuring inclusive and intuitive interaction.
Digital Cockpit Options
- Higher Variants: A 10.25-inch (26.03 cm) Digital Cockpit with turn-by-turn navigation.
- Mid Variants: An 8-inch (20.32 cm) Digital Cockpit providing all essential driving information.
Safety: The Gold Standard
Safety is non-negotiable for Škoda, and the new Kushaq continues to lead the pack as one of India’s safest family cars.
- NCAP Rating: It carries forward its prestigious 5-star Global NCAP rating.
- Airbags: Six airbags are now standard across all variants, reflecting a safety first approach.
- Active Safety: The car is equipped with over 25 active and passive safety features as standard, which increases to over 40 features on the top-end variants.
- Standard Safety Tech: All variants include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), rain-sensing wipers, rear defogger, and an auto-dimming IRVM.
Variants and Key Standard Features
The 2026 Kushaq is available in five main trim levels: Classic+, Signature, Sportline, Prestige, and the iconic Monte Carlo.
Standard Across All Variants (Classic+ onwards)
- Alloy Wheels
- Electric Sunroof (Single-pane on lower trims, Panoramic on Prestige/Monte Carlo)
- Climatronic Auto AC
- LED Headlamps and Taillamps
- 6 Airbags
- AI Companion powered by Google (except base trim)
Comparison Table: Features by Variant
| Feature | Classic+ | Signature | Sportline | Prestige | Monte Carlo |
| Infotainment Screen | 17.7 cm | 25.6 cm | 25.6 cm | 25.6 cm | 25.6 cm |
| Alloy Wheel Size | 16″ Grus | 16″ Vega Silver | 17″ Vega Black | 17″ Radim | 17″ Dual Tone |
| Sunroof Type | Single-pane | Single-pane | Single-pane | Panoramic | Panoramic |
| Engine Choice | 1.0 TSI | 1.0 TSI | 1.0 TSI | 1.0/1.5 TSI | 1.0/1.5 TSI |
The Monte Carlo: Style Redefined
The Monte Carlo badge, synonymous with Škoda’s racing heritage, is available right from the launch of the 2026 Kushaq.
- Exterior: Features a blacked-out aesthetic, Monte Carlo badges, and 17-inch Vega Dual Tone alloys with sporty red brake calipers.
- Interior: Boasts a dual-tone interior theme with sporty red accents and unique upholstery.
Ownership: The Škoda Super Care Package
To make owning a Kushaq as easy as driving one, Škoda has introduced the Super Care package, applicable to all vehicles purchased on or after January 1, 2026.
- Standard Warranty: A best-in-class 4-year or 100,000-kilometre warranty.
- Roadside Assistance (RSA): 4 years of comprehensive RSA.
- Free Services: 4 labor-free services for up to two years or 30,000 km.
- Extendability: Owners can extend the warranty up to a total of six years.
Booking and Delivery Information
Pre-bookings for the new Škoda Kushaq are officially open.
- Booking Platform: Škoda Auto India’s official website.
- Booking Amount: ₹15,000.
- Delivery Timeline: Deliveries are set to commence by the end of March 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the main difference in the 2026 Kushaq’s automatic transmission?
The 2026 model introduces an all-new eight-speed torque converter automatic paired with the 1.0 TSI engine. This provides a more refined and real automatic experience compared to previous units.
2. Is the panoramic sunroof standard?
No, while an electric sunroof is standard across all variants, the Panoramic Sunroof is specifically available on the Prestige and Monte Carlo trims.
3. What are the key safety features standard on the base variant?
The base Classic+ variant comes impressively equipped with six airbags, Electronic Stability Control, LED headlamps, rear wiper, rear defogger, and auto-dimming IRVM.
4. How does the AI Companion work?
The system is powered by Google Automotive AI Agent (Gemini). It uses context-aware voice assistance to provide real-time info (news, trends) and allows you to control car functions like climate and calls hands-free.
5. Does the 1.5 TSI variant have better brakes?
Yes, in the 2026 update, the 1.5 TSI variants now feature disc brakes on all four wheels, offering superior stopping power for the higher-performance engine.
6. What is included in the Škoda Super Care package?
It includes a 4-year/100,000 km warranty, 4 years of roadside assistance, and 4 labor-free services (scheduled at 1k, 7.5k, 15k, and 30k km).
7. Can I choose the 1.5 TSI engine with a manual gearbox?
The 2026 Kushaq 1.5 TSI is mated exclusively to the 7-speed DSG automatic transmission to provide the ultimate performance-luxury experience.
8. What is the ground clearance of the new Kushaq?
The new Kushaq maintains a ground clearance of 188 mm, making it suitable for both city roads and uneven terrains.
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