The compact SUV segment in India is one of the most competitive spaces in the automotive industry. Amidst strong contenders like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Grand Vitara, Skoda Kushaq has carved a niche with its solid build quality, punchy turbo engines, and German-influenced engineering, tailored for Indian conditions. Built on the India-specific MQB-A0-IN platform, the Kushaq is Skoda’s answer to Indian customers seeking a stylish, premium, and performance-driven urban SUV.
Let’s dive into everything that makes the Skoda Kushaq a compelling option in the mid-size SUV segment.
Exterior Design: Bold and European
The Skoda Kushaq is every bit a modern SUV, with sharp lines and a muscular stance. Designed with Skoda’s signature “Crystalline Design Language”, the Kushaq exudes a sophisticated European aesthetic while adapting to Indian road presence demands.
Key Design Highlights:
- Bold butterfly grille with chrome surround.
- Sleek dual projector headlamps with LED DRLs.
- Prominent shoulder lines and sculpted wheel arches.
- Stylish 16-inch or 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels (variant dependent).
- Silver roof rails, functional skid plates, and integrated spoiler at the rear.
- LED tail lamps with crystalline detailing for a distinct road signature.
Its compact proportions are deceptive—Kushaq has a long wheelbase of 2,651 mm, translating to excellent cabin space, especially at the rear.
Dimensions and Road Presence
- Length: 4,225 mm
- Width: 1,760 mm
- Height: 1,612 mm
- Ground Clearance: 188 mm
- Boot Space: 385 litres
- Wheelbase: 2,651 mm
Despite being slightly shorter than rivals like the Creta, the long wheelbase ensures the Kushaq feels big on the inside and stable on the highway.
Interior and Features: Premium Yet Practical
Step inside the Skoda Kushaq and you’re welcomed into a well-appointed cabin that blends minimalism with functionality. The layered dashboard, soft-touch elements (in higher trims), and intuitive layout reflect Skoda’s European design ethos.
Cabin Features:
- 10-inch infotainment touchscreen (8-inch on base variant).
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
- Digital instrument cluster on top variants.
- Ventilated front seats (Style variant).
- Leatherette upholstery.
- 2-step rear AC vents.
- Ambient lighting.
- Premium 6-speaker or 8-speaker audio system (with subwoofer on Monte Carlo).
- Wireless phone charger.
- Dual-tone dashboard with honeycomb texture.
- Tilt and telescopic steering adjustment.
The rear seat is well-cushioned with adequate under-thigh support, and the rear center armrest with cupholders enhances long-journey comfort.
Engine and Transmission Options
Skoda Kushaq is offered with two turbo-petrol engine options, both delivering engaging performance and fuel efficiency.
1.0L TSI Petrol Engine (3-cylinder)
- Displacement: 999 cc
- Power: 115 PS @ 5000-5500 rpm
- Torque: 178 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm
- Transmission Options: 6-speed Manual / 6-speed Torque Converter AT
- Fuel Efficiency: ~19.76 km/l (MT), ~18.09 km/l (AT)
1.5L TSI Petrol Engine (4-cylinder)
- Displacement: 1498 cc
- Power: 150 PS @ 5000-6000 rpm
- Torque: 250 Nm @ 1600-3500 rpm
- Transmission Options: 6-speed Manual / 7-speed DSG Automatic
- Fuel Efficiency: ~18.6 km/l (MT), ~17.7 km/l (DSG)
- ACT (Active Cylinder Technology) for improved mileage
Both engines are refined, peppy, and suited for highway cruising and spirited city driving. The 1.5L engine, in particular, offers thrilling acceleration for driving enthusiasts.
Ride and Handling: Skoda’s Forte
The Kushaq benefits immensely from its MQB-A0-IN platform which ensures a solid, planted, and confident ride.
Driving Experience Highlights:
- Light but precise electric power steering.
- Firm suspension tuned for stability over undulations.
- Minimal body roll around corners.
- Excellent high-speed behavior with minimal floatiness.
- Sharp braking response with good pedal feel.
Whether navigating through traffic or taking long highway trips, the Kushaq delivers an engaging yet comfortable driving experience.
Safety: Best-in-Class Safety Features
Safety is where Skoda Kushaq truly stands out. It scored a full 5-star rating from Global NCAP under their updated testing protocols—an achievement not many rivals can claim.
Standard Safety Features Across Variants:
- Dual front airbags
- ABS with EBD
- ESC (Electronic Stability Control)
- Hill Hold Control (on AT variants)
- Traction Control
- Multi-collision braking
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
Top-End Variants Add:
- Up to 6 airbags (front, side, curtain)
- TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System)
- Reverse camera with dynamic guidelines
- Rear parking sensors
- Auto headlamps and rain-sensing wipers
Safety is baked into the Kushaq’s DNA, making it ideal for families and long-distance travellers alike.
Variants and Pricing
As of mid-2025, the Kushaq is available in multiple trims:
- Active (Base Variant)
- Ambition
- Ambition Classic
- Style
- Style Elegance (1.5L only)
- Monte Carlo (Sporty variant)
Ex-Showroom Delhi Price Range:
- ₹11.99 lakh (1.0L TSI Active MT)
- Up to ₹19.99 lakh (1.5L TSI Monte Carlo DSG)
The Monte Carlo variant brings a sportier appeal with gloss black accents, red interiors, and exclusive alloys—perfect for those who want an aggressive look with premium features.
Rivals and Comparison
The Skoda Kushaq competes in the fiercely contested mid-size SUV space, where it faces:
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Volkswagen Taigun (platform sibling)
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
- Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
- Honda Elevate
While rivals offer more features like panoramic sunroofs or hybrid options, Kushaq stands apart with:
- Superior build quality
- Engaging turbocharged engines
- Euro-inspired handling
- Highest safety rating
- Premium brand value
Strengths and Weaknesses
Pros:
- Strong turbo performance
- Best-in-class safety
- European styling and interiors
- Fun-to-drive nature
- Reliable ride comfort
Cons:
- No diesel engine option
- No panoramic sunroof
- Slightly expensive top variants
- Limited service network in smaller towns (improving steadily)
Conclusion
The Skoda Kushaq is not just a car—it’s a statement. It speaks to buyers who prioritize safety, driving pleasure, and premium build over gimmicks. While it may not have the longest feature list in the segment, it focuses on delivering quality over quantity. With its five-star safety rating, turbocharged engine options, and European flair, the Kushaq is a breath of fresh air for those who want more than just a commuter SUV.
If you’re in the market for a compact SUV that delivers performance with polish, look no further than the Skoda Kushaq.
FAQs
Q1. Is Skoda Kushaq good for long drives?
Absolutely. The powerful engine options and stable ride make it ideal for long-distance highway drives.
Q2. What is the real-world mileage of the Kushaq?
Expect around 13–15 km/l in the city and 17–19 km/l on highways, depending on driving style and variant.
Q3. Does the Kushaq have a sunroof?
Yes, but only a single-pane sunroof is available in mid to top variants. There is no panoramic sunroof.
Q4. Is Skoda Kushaq expensive to maintain?
Maintenance is slightly above average but Skoda has introduced 4-year/60,000 km service packages to reduce long-term costs.
Q5. How is the resale value of the Skoda Kushaq?
Resale value is improving, especially after the 5-star GNCAP rating, but still lower than Korean or Japanese rivals.