The mid-size SUV segment in India is about to get a major shake-up. Skoda Auto India has officially confirmed that it will announce the prices for the highly anticipated 2026 Kushaq Facelift on March 21, 2026. This marks the first significant update for the Czech SUV since its debut in 2021, and it comes at a time when competition from the likes of the Hyundai Creta and Tata Sierra has never been fiercer.
While the overall silhouette remains familiar, the 2026 update is far more than just a “botox job.” It introduces a host of mechanical and tech-heavy upgrades designed to reclaim its spot as the enthusiast’s choice.
A Sharper, “Modern Solid” Aesthetic
The 2026 Kushaq adopts Skoda’s latest “Modern Solid” design language. The most striking change is at the front, where a wider butterfly grille now houses an illuminated LED light band—a feature borrowed from its larger sibling, the Kodiaq.
The lighting setup has been completely overhauled with slimmer LED headlamps and “eyebrow-shaped” DRLs. At the rear, the Kushaq finally gets the “connected” look, featuring an LED light bar that bridges the taillamps and includes illuminated “SKODA” lettering. Three new colors—Shimla Green, Steel Grey, and Cherry Red—round out the exterior refresh.
Interior: Segment-First Comfort and Google Integration
Step inside, and while the dashboard layout feels familiar, the technology has taken a massive leap forward.
- Rear Seat Massage: In a segment-first move, the top-spec Prestige and Monte Carlo variants now offer a massage function for rear passengers, significantly upping the luxury quotient.
- Smart Infotainment: The 10.1-inch touchscreen now features a new companion app powered by Google AI, providing smarter voice commands and seamless integration.
- Digital Cockpit: A larger 10.25-inch digital driver’s display replaces the older 8-inch unit, offering crisper graphics and customizable layouts.
- Panoramic Sunroof: Responding to years of customer feedback, the single-pane unit has been replaced by a much-requested panoramic sunroof.
Mechanical Upgrades: The New 8-Speed Gearbox
Under the hood, the Kushaq continues to offer its proven turbo-petrol engines, but with a critical change to the transmission.
- 1.0L TSI (115hp / 178Nm): The big news here is the replacement of the old 6-speed torque converter with a brand-new 8-speed automatic transmission, promised to be smoother and more fuel-efficient.
- 1.5L TSI (150hp / 250Nm): This remains the performance king of the segment, paired exclusively with the lightning-fast 7-speed DSG. To handle the extra power, the 1.5L variants now come with rear disc brakes as standard.
Safety and Competition
Safety remains a cornerstone for Skoda. The 2026 Kushaq carries forward its 5-star Global NCAP rating and now offers six airbags as standard across all five trims: Classic+, Signature, Sportline, Prestige, and Monte Carlo.
When the prices are revealed this Friday, expect the Kushaq to start around ₹11 lakh, ranging up to ₹19.5 lakh for the Monte Carlo. It will continue its battle with the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and the newly launched Tata Sierra, making it a very interesting month for Indian car buyers.
