Skoda India has officially confirmed the arrival of the refreshed Kushaq compact SUV, a vehicle poised to shake up the fiercely competitive segment. After nearly three years on the market, this comprehensive update aims to sharpen the Kushaq’s appeal against rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Grand Vitara with a mix of design tweaks, premium tech, and crucial mechanical news.
A Sharper, More Connected Look
Spy shots circulating online reveal a Kushaq that evolves its signature style. The front end undergoes a significant but subtle transformation. The iconic grille now features sleeker vertical slats and is expected to integrate a connected LED daytime running light strip across the top, mirroring the design language of the larger Skoda Kodiaq. The headlamps and fog lamp housings are redesigned for a more modern appearance.
Moving to the side, the profile remains familiar but gains a fresh set of 17-inch matte-black alloy wheels. The rear section is set for the most noticeable change, with slimmer LED taillights likely linked by a full-width LED light bar, replacing the current model’s bold “SKODA” lettering. This redesign gives the SUV a wider, more sophisticated stance.
Cabin & Technology: Stepping Up the Game
While the interior remains under wraps, Skoda is pulling out all the stops to make the Kushaq feel more upmarket. A key addition, visible in spy pictures, is a panoramic sunroofโa feature highly sought-after by Indian buyers.
The biggest technological leap comes in the form of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Former Skoda India Brand Director Petr Janeba confirmed that Level 2 ADAS will be introduced step-by-step with facelifts on their MQB A0-IN platform. This means the 2026 Kushaq will gain a suite of safety aids like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking, bringing it in line with competitors like the MG Astor and Honda Elevate.
Further boosting its convenience and safety credentials will be a 360-degree surround-view camera. In a landmark move for safety, Skoda has also confirmed that six airbags will be standard equipment across all variants of the facelifted model. This commitment to safety is underscored by the facelift already securing a 5-star safety rating in Global NCAP crash tests.
Under the Hood: New Transmission on the Horizon
The engine options will carry over but with a significant future update in the gearbox department. The entry and mid variants will continue with the capable 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine (113 bhp, 178 Nm), offered with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
However, Skoda has plans to replace this 6-speed automatic unit with a modern 8-speed (AQ300) torque converter gearbox. This change is expected to happen around mid-2026, promising smoother shifts and potentially better fuel efficiency.
The performance-oriented 1.5-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine (148 bhp, 250 Nm) will remain the choice for top variants, exclusively paired with the quick-shifting 7-speed DSG automatic transmission.
The Bottom Line
The 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift is more than just a cosmetic refresh. It represents a strategic upgrade addressing key areas where rivals had gained an edge. By introducing ADAS, a panoramic sunroof, standard six-airbag safety, and planning a superior automatic transmission, Skoda is ensuring the Kushaq returns to the market as a thoroughly modern, feature-rich, and safety-focused contender. Its January 2026 launch will be one of the most anticipated automotive events of the year.
