New Delhi/Kochi: Škoda Auto India has officially unveiled the 2026 Kushaq Facelift, delivering a comprehensive update to its best-selling SUV. While the official price announcement is scheduled for February 2026, pre-bookings are now open at ₹15,000. The new model addresses key customer demands with the addition of a Panoramic Sunroof and improved city drivability. However, the biggest surprise lies in the cabin comfort and powertrain refinement, positioning it as a premium challenger to the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.
Powertrain Overhaul – Enter the 8-Speed AT
New Skoda Kushaq 2026: In a significant mechanical shift, Škoda has replaced the previous 6-speed torque converter with a new 8-Speed Torque Converter Automatic (AQ300) for the 1.0 TSI engine.
- 1.0 TSI (115 PS / 178 Nm): Now paired with the new 8-Speed AT (and 6-speed manual). This unit promises smoother shifts in city traffic and better fuel efficiency on highways compared to the outgoing gearbox.
- 1.5 TSI (150 PS / 250 Nm): Continues with the enthusiast-favorite 7-Speed DSG, retaining its status as the performance benchmark.
- Note: The 1.5 TSI Manual option has been discontinued in the facelift lineup.
Segment-First Luxury & Interior Tech
New Skoda Kushaq 2026: Škoda has focused heavily on “rear seat comfort”—a clear nod to Indian families and chauffeur-driven owners.
- Rear Seat Massage: A segment-first feature, allowing rear passengers to activate a massage function via the centre armrest controls (Available on top trims).
- Panoramic Sunroof: Addressing a major feedback point, the top-spec Prestige and Monte Carlo variants now feature a massive dual-pane panoramic sunroof.
- Cabin Tech:
- 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit: A fully customizable driver display.
- Powered Front Seats: 6-way electrically adjustable driver and co-driver seats with ventilation.
- Updated Infotainment: A new 10.1-inch interface with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay and a new high-fidelity 6-speaker sound system.
Design & Safety Updates
- Exterior: The facelift introduces connected LED tail lamps with dynamic turn indicators, a sharper front grille, and new 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels.
- New Colours: Introducing Shimla Green, Cherry Red, and Steel Grey alongside the classic Carbon Steel and Candy White.
- Safety: Staying true to its DNA, the Kushaq retains its 5-Star Global NCAP rating.
- Standard: 6 Airbags, ESC, and ISOFIX across all variants.
- Tech: Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Hill Hold Control. (Note: Level 2 ADAS is not part of the standard launch suite.)
Key Highlights Box: 2026 Spec Sheet
- Booking Status: Open now at ₹15,000.
- Launch/Price: February 2026.
- New Gearbox: 8-Speed Torque Converter (1.0 TSI).
- Top Features: Panoramic Sunroof, Rear Seat Massage.
- Colours: Shimla Green, Cherry Red, Steel Grey.
FAQ Section:
A: Prices will be announced in February 2026. Industry estimates suggest a starting price of around ₹11.50 Lakh.
A: No, the 1.5 TSI performance engine is exclusively available with the 7-Speed DSG automatic in the 2026 lineup.
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AUTHORSHIP & TRANSPARENCY
- Reported by: Kitto Tech Team
- Edited by: Senior Desk
- Source Transparency: Specs sourced from Škoda Auto India Official Unveil Event (Jan 20, 2026).
- Disclaimer: Note: Features like Panoramic Sunroof and Massage Seats are limited to higher trims. Verify variant-wise breakdown at your nearest dealership.
- Community Question: Is the “Rear Seat Massage” a game-changer for you, or would you prefer ADAS? Let us know in the comments.
- Accountability Footer: Found an error? Email kittonews@gmail.com.
