KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Skoda Kushaq facelift spotted testing ahead of launch
- Gets cosmetic updates and feature additions
- Likely to offer ADAS Lvl-2, 360-degree camera, and more
The Skoda Kushaq, first launched in 2021, played a pivotal role in strengthening Skoda's presence in India and gave the brand a strong footing in the competitive midsize SUV space. However, with newer rivals arriving and the rivalry brewing up hotter than ever, the Kushaq is now gearing up for a mid-cycle refresh. Recently, a test mule of the facelifted model was spotted on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, giving us an early look at what's in store. Read on to find out more details on what to expect, but before that, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community, specifically curated for petrolheads like us to keep up with the latest news and automotive updates.
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Skoda Kushaq Facelift: Design Tweaks
From the latest spy shots, it's evident that cosmetic changes with the Skoda Kushaq facelift are on the way, though they remain largely limited to the front and rear. At the front, expect a tweaked bumper, updated headlamps, and a reworked grille, possibly with integrated lighting elements inspired by the premium Kodiaq. The rear is expected to sport a connected taillamp design and a mildly updated lower bumper. The side profile stays largely unchanged, save for new alloy wheel designs. Skoda is also likely to add new paint shades to the facelift's palette to keep things fresh and add a little extra flair to the update.
Interior Enhancements: New Features, Dashboard Layout, & More?
Inside, the overall cabin layout is expected to remain familiar. However, buyers can look forward to new upholstery, colour themes, and a revised dashboard design. Skoda could also add extra features to keep the Kushaq competitive in an increasingly feature-loaded segment. The current Kushaq already packs equipment like a 10.1-inch infotainment screen, 8-inch digital driver's display, single-pane sunroof, ventilated front seats, wireless charger, and ambient lighting.
For the facelift, Skoda will raise the bar with a panoramic sunroof that has already been spied on earlier occasions,a 360-degree camera, updated infotainment and digital driver's display, and a premium sound system. Safety equipment is also expected to be upgraded. Alongside the existing package of six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-hold assist, and tyre pressure monitoring, the facelift could debut Level-2 ADAS features, something that has been hinted at by brand officials in the past, making it one of the safest SUVs in its class.
Powertrain Options
Under the hood, no changes are expected. The Kushaq will continue with its 1.0-litre TSI (115 PS, 178 Nm) and 1.5-litre TSI EVO (150 PS, 250 Nm) petrol engines. Transmission choices will include a 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, and a 7-speed DSG for the larger engine. Claimed fuel economy figures are likely to remain the same, ranging between 18 and 20 kmpl, depending on the variant.
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Expected Price and Rivals
The facelifted Kushaq is expected to be priced around Rs. 11 lakhs, starting mark, almost around its current pricing. Once launched in early 2026, it will go up against established rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Victoris, Honda Elevate, Tata Curvv, Toyota Hyryder, and Volkswagen Taigun.
Verdict
With the facelift, Skoda aims to inject new life into the Kushaq, a model that was instrumental in the brand's recent growth in India. Subtle design tweaks, feature enhancements, and a stronger focus on safety are likely to keep it relevant in a crowded segment and if Skoda can strike the right balance of pricing and equipment, the 2026 Kushaq facelift could reclaim its spot as one of the most desirable midsize SUVs in the country. However, going by the general sentiment where German cars are considered expensive to maintain, the brand needs to change this perception if they want to push the sales up in the ladder.
