Kushaq refreshed after five years
The SUV developed for India is entering a new chapter. The Kushaq has received a comprehensive update – Modern Solid design language, expanded equipment, new engines, gearboxes and upgraded technology, including AI-powered infotainment. The aim is to strengthen Škoda’s position in its second most important market outside Europe, where the brand achieved its best-ever result last year.
Updated Kushaq
Pushes the Boundaries of Its Class
The compact SUV developed and manufactured in India has been given a facelift after five years on the market. It features the latest technology and the Modern Solid design language.
From around the world
India
Capital:
New Delhi
Population:
1.45 billion (2024)
Area:
3,287,000 km²
Official languages:
Hindi and English
GDP:
3.913 trillion dollars (2024)
In 2021, the Kushaq became the first car developed by Škoda Auto specifically for Indian customers. However, it is also exported to other Asian markets. The established model has now undergone a major update. It will help the Škoda brand further consolidate its position in the Indian market, where it recorded strong growth last year (see Škoda Brand Had Its Best Year in India).
“Together with the Kodiaq and Kylaq models, Škoda Auto offers a range of SUVs on the Indian market that covers key segments and price categories. Upgrading the Kushaq creates an opportunity for further demand and growth in our single most important market outside Europe,” said Klaus Zellmer, Chairman of the Board of Directors.
Revamped Appearance and Colours
The modernised Kushaq features elements of the Modern Solid design language. It has a new radiator grille with chrome slats and a light strip. This is complemented by LED headlights, fog lights and front parking sensors. At the rear, the illuminated Škoda logo creates a visual bridge between the connected lights and catches the eye. Three new body colours have been added to the range: Shimla Green, Steel Grey and Cherry Red. Customers can also choose the sporty Monte Carlo version.
The raised chassis and expanded range of powertrains ensure strong driving characteristics. The 1.0 TSI version of the Kushaq is the first in its segment to feature an eight-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter. A six-speed manual transmission is also available. The more powerful 1.5 TSI engine is complemented by a fast-shifting seven-speed DSG automatic transmission and disc brakes on all wheels.
The new Kushaq aims to further support the Škoda brand in its efforts to establish itself in India as its second most important market, after Europe.
Infotainment with AI
The spacious interior of the car is illuminated by a brand-new panoramic roof and two-tone ambient lighting. In the front, electrically adjustable seats with ventilation ensure the comfort of the occupants. The Kushaq is the first in its class to offer rear seats with a massage function. The boot has also been enlarged.
The developers placed strong emphasis on connectivity. At its heart is a state-of-the-art infotainment system with a 10.1-inch screen, tailored to the needs of Indian customers. The system uses Google’s Gemini AI platform and offers smart support, real-time information and voice control of music, calls and air conditioning, as well as many other functions.
The Kushaq also excels in terms of safety equipment, as confirmed by its five-star Global NCAP rating. The basic version of the car offers more than 25 passive and active safety features, including six airbags, with higher trim levels offering more than 40 such features.
72,665
Škoda cars sold in India in 2025.
+107%
Year-on-year increase compared with 2024.
325
Customer contact centres in 183 Indian cities.
94,928
Number of Kushaq cars of the original version sold so far.
491 l
The boot volume has increased by more than a quarter from the original 385 l.
188 mm
The vehicle ground clearance is 33 mm higher than in the original version.
Škoda brand had its best year in India
Škoda Auto celebrated a quarter of a century on the Indian market with excellent sales results. Customers bought more than twice as many cars as in 2024. The compact and affordable Kylaq SUV was the main driver of this success. The model range was refreshed with the limited editions of the Kushaq and Slavia, the sporty Octavia RS returned to the range, and the new generation of the Kodiaq strengthened the Czech brand’s position in the premium SUV segment.
“We have once again strengthened our sales network and consolidated our position in the Indian market, which has never been stronger. As we enter 2026, we look forward to maintaining this successful trend thanks to a renewed model offensive, more significant sales and aftersales activities, and an even stronger focus on expanding the brand’s influence and customer-centric approach,” said Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Škoda Auto India.
Last year, India also became the first major market where the carmaker completely revamped its network with new corporate colours and design. In addition to sales outlets in nearly 200 cities, the campaign also featured superstar Ranveer Singh and sitar master Rishab Sharma. Confidence in the capabilities of Škoda cars was reinforced by the Fans of Škoda Himalayan expedition, during which convoy reached the world’s highest motorable road, Umling La. The Kodiaq became the first petrol-powered SUV to reach base camp of Mount Everest at an altitude of 5,200 metres above sea level.
Ashish Gupta
Brand Director, Škoda Auto India
Our mission is to make European technology accessible to customers across India. With the new Kushaq model, we are fulfilling these ambitions and responding to changing customer preferences. At the same time, we’re building on our tradition by offering an SUV that comes as standard with key safety, comfort, design and practical features rooted in our proven European engineering.
Check out the presentation of the new version of the Kushaq model
