Abhishek 
Today, January 20, 2026, marks a monumental shift in the Indian automotive landscape as the 2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift officially breaks cover. This isn’t just a minor ‘sticker job’ or a routine update; it is a comprehensive overhaul designed to reclaim the throne in India’s cut-throat mid-size SUV segment. With segment-first features and a mechanical heart transplant, Skoda has finally given the ‘India 2.0’ pioneer the weapons it needs to take on the likes of the Hyundai Creta and the newly launched Tata Sierra.
What’s New in the 2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift
The Kushaq was the pioneer of the “India 2.0” project, and with this update, Skoda has addressed every single feedback point from Indian owners—from the sunroof size to the braking performance.
1. Exterior: “Modern Solid” Design
The 2026 Kushaq adopts Skoda’s global design language.
- Illuminated Grille: The signature grille now features an integrated LED light bar.
- Connected Lighting: At the rear, you’ll find a striking full-width LED light bar and an illuminated “SKODA” wordmark.
- New Wheels: Fresh 17-inch dual-tone alloys give it a much more aggressive stance.
- New Colors: Three bold new additions: Shimla Green, Cherry Red, and Steel Grey.
2. Interior & Features: The Big Upgrades
This is where Skoda has really listened to the market. The cabin feels more premium with a new black-and-beige theme (Prestige) and crimson accents (Monte Carlo).
- Panoramic Sunroof: Replacing the older single-pane unit, this was the #1 customer request.
- Segment-First Massage Seats: The rear seats now feature a massage function—a luxury previously reserved for cars twice its price.
- Google Gemini AI: Skoda has integrated a Gemini-based AI assistant for seamless voice commands and real-time information.
- Tech Stack: A larger 10.1-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch fully digital cockpit.
You May Read Also: New Tata Punch: A Smart, Safe & Practical Micro-SUV for Indian Roads
3. Mechanical Masterstroke: The New 8-Speed AT
While the engines remain the same, the driving experience has been refined:
- 1.0L TSI: Now paired with a new 8-speed torque converter automatic (AQ300), replacing the older 6-speed. Expect better fuel efficiency and smoother city crawls.
- 1.5L TSI: Continues with the lightning-fast 7-speed DSG but now comes with rear disc brakes as standard for superior stopping power.
Key Specifications of New Skoda Kushaq at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
| Engines | 1.0L TSI (115 PS) / 1.5L TSI (150 PS) |
| Transmission | 6-MT, New 8-AT, 7-DSG |
| Boot Space | 491 Litres (Up from 385L) |
| Safety Rating | 5-Star GNCAP (Built on MQB-A0-IN) |
| New Safety Tech | Level 2 ADAS & 360-Degree Camera |
Variants Available in the New Skoda Kushaq
Skoda has overhauled the variant lineup to ensure even the entry-level models don’t feel “base.”
The new hierarchy consists of five broad trims: Classic Plus, Signature, Sportline, Prestige, and Monte Carlo. Here is the professional deep dive into the variant-wise feature distribution.
1. Classic Plus (The New Entry Point)
Expected Price: ₹10.99 Lakh – ₹11.50 Lakh
Skoda has killed the bare-bones “Classic” trim. The Classic Plus now serves as the base, and it is surprisingly loaded.
- Standard Tech: 8-inch digital cockpit, LED headlamps, and LED taillights.
- Surprise Additions: Alloy wheels (16-inch) and an Electric Sunroof are now standard from this base trim.
- Safety: 6 Airbags, ESC, and ISOFIX mounts standard.
- Engine: 1.0L TSI with 6-speed Manual only.
2. Signature (The Value King)
Expected Price: ₹13.00 Lakh – ₹15.50 Lakh
This variant sits where the “Ambition” used to be, focusing on the tech-savvy buyer.
- Infotainment: Upgraded to the 10.1-inch floating touchscreen with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.
- AI Integration: Features the new Gemini-powered AI assistant for voice commands.
- Comfort: Cruise control, automatic climate control, and rain-sensing wipers.
- Engine: Available with both 1.0L TSI (MT & New 8-speed AT).
3. Sportline (The Head-Turner)
Expected Price: ₹15.00 Lakh – ₹16.50 Lakh
For those who want the “Monte Carlo look” without the top-tier price tag.
- Aesthetics: Blacked-out grille, ORVMs, and roof rails.
- Wheels: 17-inch blacked-out alloy wheels.
- Interior: All-black cabin theme with Sportline-specific upholstery.
4. Prestige (The Luxury Powerhouse)
Expected Price: ₹17.00 Lakh – ₹18.50 Lakh
This is the variant where Skoda has packed in all the “luxury segment” firsts.
- Big Highlights: Panoramic Sunroof and Rear Seat Massage Function (Segment-first).
- Tech: Level 2 ADAS suite (Adaptive Cruise, Lane Assist), 360-degree camera, and front parking sensors.
- Front Seats: 6-way powered and ventilated front seats.
- Engine: Choice of 1.0L TSI (8-AT) or the powerful 1.5L TSI (7-DSG). Note: 1.5L variants now get all-wheel disc brakes.
5. Monte Carlo (The Sporty Flagship)
Expected Price: ₹18.50 Lakh – ₹19.50 Lakh
The ultimate Kushaq experience with a distinct European flair.
- Unique Design: Red grille inserts, “Monte Carlo” badging on fenders, and red brake calipers (for the 1.5L).
- Exclusive Cabin: Black-and-red leatherette seats with “Monte Carlo” embossed on headrests.
- Full Kit: Includes everything from the Prestige variant plus the signature 17-inch Vega dual-tone alloys.
Quick Summary Table
| Feature | Classic Plus | Signature | Sportline | Prestige | Monte Carlo |
| Sunroof | Electric | Electric | Electric | Panoramic | Panoramic |
| Alloys | 16″ Alloy | 17″ Alloy | 17″ Black | 17″ Alloy | 17″ Vega |
| Display | 8″ Digital | 8″ Digital | 8″ Digital | 10.25″ Digital | 10.25″ Digital |
| Safety | 6 Airbags | 6 Airbags | 6 Airbags | ADAS + 360° | ADAS + 360° |
| Gearbox | 6-MT Only | 6-MT / 8-AT | 6-MT / 8-AT | 8-AT / 7-DSG | 8-AT / 7-DSG |
| Massage | No | No | No | Rear Seats | Rear Seats |
Suggestion for the Variant Selection
If you are on a budget, the Classic Plus is a no-brainer because you get a sunroof and alloys at the base level—something rivals don’t offer. However, if you want the “true” 2026 upgrade, the Prestige 1.5L is the one to pick for the panoramic roof, rear massagers, and much-needed rear disc brakes.
Expected Price & Launch Timeline
As of today, January 20, 2026, the official booking window has opened nationwide. Here is the ground reality for potential buyers:
- Official Booking Amount: ₹15,000. This is fully refundable if you cancel before the price announcement in February.
- Expected Price: ₹11.00 Lakh – ₹19.50 Lakh (ex-showroom).
- Full Price Reveal: Scheduled for February 2026.
- Deliveries: Starting March 2026.
- Booking Channels: You can book via the official Skoda India website or at any authorized dealership.
Estimated Waiting Time:
* Classic Plus / Signature: 4 to 6 weeks. These are being prioritized for high-volume production.
* Sportline: 6 to 8 weeks. Demand for the “blacked-out” look usually leads to a slight backlog.
* Prestige / Monte Carlo: 10 to 12 weeks. These top trims feature the new panoramic sunroof and ADAS components, which are currently seeing the highest demand and potential supply-chain constraints.
Pro Tip: If you want the new Shimla Green or Cherry Red colors, add an extra 2 weeks to the timeline, as these are being produced in specific batches.
FAQs About the New Skoda Kushaq Facelift
Q: Does the new Kushaq have ADAS?
Yes, the 2026 facelift introduces a Level 2 ADAS suite, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and Autonomous Emergency Braking.
Q: Is there a Diesel or Hybrid option?
No, Skoda remains committed to its TSI “Petrol-only” strategy. There is no diesel, CNG, or hybrid variant in this update.
Q: How does the boot space compare to the old one?
Massive improvement! The boot has grown by 106 litres, now offering a class-leading 491 litres of storage.
Q: What are the new variants?
The lineup is now simplified into: Classic Plus, Signature, Sportline, Prestige, and Monte Carlo.
About Author
