Introducing the 2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift: improved appearance, smarter features and better protection with ADAS and 360 degree camera. The ultimate combination of technology and comfort.
2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift Unveiled: Smarter, Safer & More Luxurious Than Ever
Skoda has been able to introduce the 2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift, and it is not one of those in-and-out changes.
This time the Czech manufacturer has literally slipped underneath the skin, included smarter technology and refined what was an already pretty likeable SUV.
The Kushaq has never stopped being known as a solid-built and clean European, however, this facelift makes it appear more mature, more digital, and certainly safer.
What's New in the 2026 Kushaq?
The upgrades included in the headline are not to be overlooked Level-2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera, a more luxurious cabin, and a series of design modifications that make it look sharper.Skoda appears to have directly targeted this upgrade to the current Indian consumers - those who desire comfort and technology, and young professionals who desire performance with sophistication. It is more than ever versatile.
Tested Engines and Performance - Now Sharper
Nothing alarmingly new under the bonnet--and that is good. The Skoda Kushaq Facelift continues to use the 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre TSI turbo-petrol engines that are trustworthy.
- The 1.0-litre makes 115 hp and 178 Nm
- The 1.5-litre delivers 150 hp and 250 Nm
The two have manual and automatic transmissions. The smaller engine is punchy enough to enjoy driving it every day, but the 1.5 TSI still retains the powerful mid-range rush that the enthusiasts enjoy.
Skoda engineers have been working on a better gear shift and throttle mapping. It is literally like crawling through traffic or passing on the highway- it is smoother and quicker on the highway.
Simply put, it is not about putting more power in it, but refined the one that is there.
Mileage
The Kushaq never had a weakness on fuel efficiency, but now it is more balanced.
The 1.0-litre model is capable of achieving nearly 18 km/l and the 1.5-litre can achieve an approximation of 17 km/l.
The numbers are really impressive in case of a turbo-petrol SUV that is eager to be driven.
It strikes that golden mean between weekend entertainment and practicality of weekdays- and that is what Indian customers appreciate.
Interior- A Cabin That (Finally) Seems Complete
Enter the store and you immediately understand that Skoda has heard opinions. The 2026 Kushaq Facelift receives a new dashboard made of gentler materials, chrome ornamentation, and superior-quality plastics everywhere.
It has a new 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system that has wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, and it is much smoother to use.
The tech experience is beautifully brought together by the digital instrument cluster, wireless charger, and better sound system.
The ventilated forward seats remain a godsend in the Indian summers and the interior lighting offers the cabin a soothing feel when driving at night.
The panoramic sunroof is added and the result is a space that is airier, higher quality and much more high quality than it was previously.
Less wind noise, reduced vibrations and increased calmness have also been made more in the insulation of the cabin.
Safety ADAS(Level 2) Joins
Now this is great. According to reports, Skoda may introduce the ADAS Level 2 in the Kushaq for the first time.
This adds a 5-star Global NCAP rating of safety to an already 5-star car in semi-autonomous techie.
The ADAS suite includes:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Keep Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Forward Collision Warning
- Automatic Emergency Braking.
On top of that it has 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control, Hill Hold Control and the solid body shell of Skoda. They all combine to make the Kushaq one of the safest options in its category.
And with the new 360-degree camera, it is now easy to park in narrow spots within the city or reverse in a busy market.
Design - subtle, confident and balanced
The design team did not become overly flashy, and it is a virtue that plays in the favor of Skoda. The facelift introduces a slightly bolder grille, redesigned LED headlamps and sleeker DRLs.
The rear and front bumpers are also redesigned to give it more muscle and the new alloy wheel designs also introduce a new element of sportiness.
The taillights at the rear are more angular and with little detail, although it is a big visual difference.
On the whole, the Kushaq Facelift appears more down-to-earth, older and, at the same time, Skoda.
On the Road
Test the new Skoda Kushaq and it is familiar only with more confidence. The suspension adjustment is just right plush enough to handle Indian roads which are bumpy yet solid enough to compose at high speeds.
The steering is direct, and with a just enough amount of weight during highway speeds. It is one of those SUVs that actually appears European in its balance that is stable, predictable, and involving.
The 1.5 TSI continues to accelerate strongly when you put your foot to the floor, and the smaller 1.0 TSI does not ever give the impression of underpowering. The Kushaq does not disappoint whether in a Fast run through the city, or on a long journey up the hills.
Pricing and Value
Formal prices are not confirmed yet, but initial word is that the Skoda Kushaq Facelift 2026 will be priced at around Rs 11 lakh - Rs 19 lakh (ex-showroom).
Upon its release, Skoda will most probably provide exchange bonuses and straight forward EMI. The value equation is going to be sound based on the new tech, safety and refinement.
Competitors - Are You up to the Competition?
The new Kushaq will compete directly with such popular models of Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Grand Vitara, and Honda Elevate.
Nevertheless, the building quality and driving dynamics are the greatest asset of Skoda.
It may not contain flashy gimmicks, but it does have a sense of engineering truthfulness, something that purchasers are becoming more and more sensitive to.
Conclusion
It may appear that the Skoda Kushaq Facelift is a slightly modified model but take time with it and you will know the extent to which a lot has changed.
It is easier to drive, is more up-market in the cabin, and the extra safety features ensure that it is future-proof.
Skoda did not bring a revolution to the SUV - rather it developed it intelligently. And that is why I feel that this 2026 model fits so well.
Official Links for references: Skoda Auto India Website
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