The Škoda Kushaq is a standout offering in the compact SUV segment, meticulously crafted by the Czech automaker Škoda Auto to cater to the discerning Indian market. Launched in June 2021 as part of Škoda’s ambitious India 2.0 strategy, the Kushaq embodies a blend of European engineering finesse and localized design sensibilities, making it a formidable contender in a highly competitive landscape. Built on the MQB-A0-IN platform—a version of Volkswagen Group’s modular architecture tailored for India—the Kushaq reflects Škoda’s commitment to delivering vehicles that resonate with local preferences while maintaining global standards of quality, safety, and performance. The name “Kushaq,” derived from the Sanskrit word “Kushak” meaning king or emperor, underscores its bold aspiration to reign supreme in the sub-4-meter SUV category.
Since its debut, the Kushaq has garnered attention for its striking design, robust build quality, and spirited driving dynamics. It appeals to urban families and driving enthusiasts alike, offering a premium experience at a competitive price point. With a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, powerful turbocharged petrol engines, and a host of modern features, the Kushaq has positioned itself as a worthy rival to segment leaders. This detailed exploration delves into the technical specifications, variants, pricing across metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of the car, alongside a comparison with its close competitors.
Technical Specifications
The Škoda Kushaq is powered by two turbo-petrol engines, each designed to deliver a balance of performance and efficiency. Below is a comprehensive table of its technical specifications, sourced and verified from reputable platforms like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale as of March 23, 2025.
| Parameter | 1.0L TSI Engine | 1.5L TSI Engine |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.0L Turbocharged Stratified Injection | 1.5L Turbocharged Stratified Injection |
| Displacement | 999 cc | 1498 cc |
| No. of Cylinders | 3 | 4 |
| Max Power | 114 bhp @ 5000-5500 rpm | 148 bhp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 178 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm | 250 Nm @ 1600-3500 rpm |
| Transmission Options | 6-Speed Manual, 6-Speed Automatic | 6-Speed Manual, 7-Speed DSG |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Mileage (ARAI Claimed) | 19.76 kmpl (MT), 18.09 kmpl (AT) | 18.86 kmpl (MT & DSG) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Suspension (Front) | McPherson Strut with Lower Triangular Links and Stabilizer Bar | Same as 1.0L TSI |
| Suspension (Rear) | Twist Beam Axle | Twist Beam Axle |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Disc / Drum | Disc / Disc |
| Tyre Size | 205/60 R16 (Base), 205/55 R17 (Higher Variants) | 205/55 R17 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 Liters | 50 Liters |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 4225 mm x 1760 mm x 1612 mm | 4225 mm x 1760 mm x 1612 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2651 mm | 2651 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 188 mm (Unladen) | 188 mm (Unladen) |
| Boot Space | 385 Liters (Expandable to 1405 Liters) | 385 Liters (Expandable to 1405 Liters) |
| Kerb Weight | 1278-1309 kg | 1305-1345 kg |
These specifications highlight the Kushaq’s engineering prowess, with the 1.0L TSI catering to efficiency-driven buyers and the 1.5L TSI appealing to those seeking superior performance. The availability of manual and automatic transmissions across both engines ensures flexibility for diverse driving preferences.
Variants
The Škoda Kushaq is offered in a range of variants, each tailored to meet different customer needs, from budget-conscious buyers to those seeking premium features. Below is a table detailing the variants available as of March 2025, based on data from CarDekho and Škoda India’s official website.
| Variant | Engine | Transmission | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0L Classic | 1.0L TSI | 6-Speed Manual | LED Headlights, 7-inch Touchscreen, Dual Airbags, ABS, ESC |
| 1.0L Onyx | 1.0L TSI | 6-Speed Manual | 10-inch Touchscreen, Rear AC Vents, Onyx Graphics, Hill Hold Control |
| 1.0L Onyx AT | 1.0L TSI | 6-Speed Automatic | Same as Onyx MT with Automatic Transmission |
| 1.0L Signature | 1.0L TSI | 6-Speed Manual | 10-inch Touchscreen, Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, Cruise Control |
| 1.0L Signature AT | 1.0L TSI | 6-Speed Automatic | Same as Signature MT with Automatic Transmission |
| 1.0L Sportline | 1.0L TSI | 6-Speed Manual | Sporty Black Accents, 17-inch Alloys, Ventilated Seats, 6 Airbags |
| 1.0L Sportline AT | 1.0L TSI | 6-Speed Automatic | Same as Sportline MT with Automatic Transmission |
| 1.0L Monte Carlo | 1.0L TSI | 6-Speed Manual | Red Accents, Sunroof, Digital Cockpit, Premium Audio |
| 1.0L Monte Carlo AT | 1.0L TSI | 6-Speed Automatic | Same as Monte Carlo MT with Automatic Transmission |
| 1.0L Prestige | 1.0L TSI | 6-Speed Manual | Leatherette Seats, Wireless Charger, Ambient Lighting, 6 Airbags |
| 1.0L Prestige AT | 1.0L TSI | 6-Speed Automatic | Same as Prestige MT with Automatic Transmission |
| 1.5L Signature DSG | 1.5L TSI | 7-Speed DSG | Same as 1.0L Signature with 1.5L Engine and DSG |
| 1.5L Sportline DSG | 1.5L TSI | 7-Speed DSG | Same as 1.0L Sportline with 1.5L Engine and DSG |
| 1.5L Monte Carlo DSG | 1.5L TSI | 7-Speed DSG | Same as 1.0L Monte Carlo with 1.5L Engine and DSG |
| 1.5L Prestige DSG | 1.5L TSI | 7-Speed DSG | Top-spec: Virtual Cockpit, Premium Sound System, Advanced Safety Features |
The Kushaq’s variant lineup spans from the entry-level Classic to the fully loaded Prestige DSG, offering a mix of affordability and luxury. Special editions like the Monte Carlo and Sportline add distinctive styling cues, enhancing its appeal.
Price in Metro Cities
The Škoda Kushaq’s pricing varies across metro cities due to differences in ex-showroom costs, RTO charges, and insurance. Below is a table of on-road prices for select variants in key metro cities, sourced from CarDekho and CarWale as of March 2025 (prices in ₹ Lakh).
| Variant | Delhi | Mumbai | Bangalore | Chennai | Kolkata |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0L Classic (MT) | 12.55 | 12.79 | 12.92 | 12.85 | 12.67 |
| 1.0L Onyx (MT) | 14.67 | 14.93 | 15.07 | 15.00 | 14.81 |
| 1.0L Signature (MT) | 16.33 | 16.61 | 16.77 | 16.69 | 16.48 |
| 1.0L Monte Carlo (AT) | 18.45 | 18.75 | 18.93 | 18.84 | 18.62 |
| 1.5L Prestige (DSG) | 21.85 | 22.17 | 22.37 | 22.27 | 21.99 |
These prices reflect the MY2025 update, which saw an increase of up to ₹69,000 across variants. Buyers are advised to check with local dealerships for the latest offers and discounts.
About the Škoda Kushaq
Design and Aesthetics
The Škoda Kushaq’s exterior design is a testament to the brand’s Bohemian crystal-inspired philosophy, characterized by sharp lines, bold proportions, and a commanding stance. At the front, the signature butterfly grille—flanked by sleek LED headlamps with integrated daytime running lights—lends a premium and aggressive look. The high-mounted fog lamps and robust skid plate enhance its SUV character, while the side profile features crisp character lines, roof rails, and stylish alloy wheels (up to 17 inches in higher trims). The rear showcases split LED tail lamps and Škoda lettering across the tailgate, adding a modern touch. Available in five colors—Tornado Red, Candy White, Carbon Steel, Honey Orange, and Brilliant Silver—the Kushaq exudes a youthful and dynamic vibe.
Inside, the Kushaq offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin with a dual-tone black and off-white theme. The dashboard is clean and functional, dominated by a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system in higher variants (7-inch in the base model), supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The use of quality materials, chrome accents, and ambient lighting elevates the premium feel. Ventilated front seats, a two-spoke steering wheel, and thoughtful storage solutions enhance comfort and practicality. However, the touch-based climate controls have drawn mixed reviews for being less intuitive than physical knobs, especially while driving.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The Kushaq’s performance is underpinned by its two turbo-petrol engines. The 1.0L TSI delivers 114 bhp and 178 Nm, making it ideal for city commuting and moderate highway drives. Paired with a slick 6-speed manual or a responsive 6-speed torque converter automatic, it offers a peppy yet efficient drive, with ARAI-claimed mileage figures of 19.76 kmpl (MT) and 18.09 kmpl (AT). The 1.5L TSI, with 148 bhp and 250 Nm, is the enthusiast’s choice, offering brisk acceleration and confident overtaking capabilities. Its 7-speed DSG transmission is a highlight, providing quick shifts and a sporty feel, though the manual option remains engaging for purists.
The Kushaq’s suspension—a McPherson strut upfront and twist beam at the rear—strikes a balance between handling and ride comfort. It leans toward a firmer setup, ensuring stability at high speeds and predictable cornering, though it transmits some jolts over rough patches. The steering is light and precise, aiding maneuverability in urban settings, but it lacks the heft desired by enthusiasts at higher speeds. With a ground clearance of 188 mm, the Kushaq handles India’s varied road conditions competently, though it’s not designed for serious off-roading.
Safety and Technology
Safety is a cornerstone of the Kushaq’s appeal, earning it a 5-star rating from Global NCAP for both adult and child occupant protection. Standard features include dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), and multi-collision braking. Higher variants up the ante with six airbags, hill hold control, and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). The Virtual Cockpit—a fully digital instrument cluster—debuts in top trims, offering customizable displays and a modern flair.
On the tech front, the Kushaq integrates seamlessly with modern lifestyles. The infotainment system supports Škoda Connect features, including remote vehicle monitoring and navigation. Wireless charging, USB-C ports, and a single-pane sunroof (in select variants) add convenience and luxury. However, it misses out on some segment-first features like a panoramic sunroof or ADAS, which competitors have begun to offer.
Ownership Experience
Owning a Škoda Kushaq comes with its share of pros and cons. The build quality is exemplary, reflecting European standards, and the car feels solid on the road. Fuel efficiency is respectable for its class, though real-world figures (around 14-16 kmpl for the 1.0L and 12-14 kmpl for the 1.5L) may vary based on driving conditions. Maintenance costs, however, are a concern, often perceived as higher than those of rivals like Hyundai or Kia, with service intervals typically at 15,000 km or one year. Škoda’s service network, while expanding, remains limited compared to mass-market brands, potentially inconveniencing owners in smaller cities.
The Kushaq’s resale value is another point of discussion. While it holds appeal among enthusiasts, it doesn’t match the strong residual value of competitors like the Hyundai Creta or Kia Seltos, partly due to Škoda’s niche brand perception in India. That said, the company’s focus on customer satisfaction—through initiatives like extended warranties and roadside assistance—aims to bolster confidence in long-term ownership.
Market Positioning and Updates
Since its launch, the Kushaq has evolved with multiple updates and special editions. The MY2025 update, introduced in March 2025, rejigged variant-wise features and increased prices by up to ₹69,000, reflecting added value like six airbags across the range. Special editions like the Monte Carlo (with red accents and sporty styling) and Onyx (with unique graphics) cater to buyers seeking individuality. Škoda’s India 2.0 strategy hinges on the Kushaq’s success, with plans for a facelift expected in mid-2025, potentially introducing ADAS and refreshed styling to keep pace with evolving trends.
Close Competitors
The Škoda Kushaq operates in a fiercely competitive segment, locking horns with established players and newer entrants. Here’s an in-depth comparison with its closest rivals:
Hyundai Creta
The Hyundai Creta is the segment benchmark, renowned for its feature-rich cabin and versatile powertrain options. Priced between ₹11.11 Lakh and ₹20.30 Lakh (ex-showroom), it offers a 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol (115 bhp), a 1.5L turbo-petrol (160 bhp), and a 1.5L diesel (116 bhp), paired with manual, automatic, and CVT transmissions. The Creta outshines the Kushaq with a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and ADAS in top trims, alongside a softer suspension for a plush ride. However, its safety rating remains untested by Global NCAP post-2024 facelift, and its driving dynamics lack the Kushaq’s sharpness. The Creta’s wider service network and stronger resale value give it an edge for practical buyers.
Kia Seltos
The Kia Seltos mirrors the Creta’s offerings, sharing its engine lineup and pricing (₹11.13 Lakh to ₹20.37 Lakh ex-showroom). It stands out with bold styling, a 360-degree camera, and a head-up display, appealing to tech-savvy buyers. The Seltos’ handling is sharper than the Creta’s, though it doesn’t match the Kushaq’s European-tuned dynamics. Like the Creta, it benefits from Kia’s extensive dealership presence and competitive maintenance costs, but its safety credentials (3-star GNCAP for older models) lag behind the Kushaq’s 5-star rating.
Volkswagen Taigun
The Volkswagen Taigun, the Kushaq’s corporate sibling, shares the MQB-A0-IN platform and powertrains—1.0L TSI (114 bhp) and 1.5L TSI (148 bhp)—with prices ranging from ₹11.70 Lakh to ₹20.00 Lakh (ex-showroom). It offers a similar driving experience and safety suite (5-star GNCAP), with subtle differences in design and features. The Taigun’s cabin feels slightly more upscale, and it includes a panoramic sunroof in top trims, which the Kushaq lacks. However, its variant strategy and pricing closely align with the Kushaq, making the choice largely a matter of brand preference and styling.
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara brings hybrid technology to the fray, with a 1.5L petrol-hybrid (114 bhp combined) and a 1.5L petrol (103 bhp), priced from ₹10.99 Lakh to ₹20.09 Lakh (ex-showroom). Its standout feature is fuel efficiency (up to 27.97 kmpl for the hybrid), far surpassing the Kushaq’s figures. It also offers all-wheel drive in select trims, a rarity in this segment. However, its performance is less spirited, and its safety rating (untested by GNCAP) remains a question mark. Maruti’s vast service network and lower ownership costs make it a practical alternative.
MG Astor
The MG Astor targets tech enthusiasts with features like a personal AI assistant and Level 2 ADAS, powered by a 1.5L petrol (110 bhp) or 1.3L turbo-petrol (140 bhp), priced between ₹9.79 Lakh and ₹17.90 Lakh (ex-showroom). Its ride is comfortable, but handling lacks the Kushaq’s precision. Safety-wise, it’s unrated by GNCAP, and its service network is less widespread than Hyundai or Maruti. The Astor appeals to gadget lovers but falls short in driving engagement and brand trust compared to the Kushaq.
Verdict
The Škoda Kushaq excels in safety, build quality, and driving pleasure, making it a top pick for enthusiasts and safety-conscious buyers. However, it trails competitors in feature diversity (no panoramic sunroof or ADAS), service reach, and resale value. The Creta and Seltos lead in versatility and mass appeal, while the Grand Vitara shines for efficiency-focused buyers. The Taigun is its closest match, with minor differences, and the Astor caters to a niche tech-savvy audience. Ultimately, the Kushaq’s blend of European flair and Indian practicality makes it a compelling choice, though buyers must weigh its strengths against practical ownership considerations.
In conclusion, the Škoda Kushaq is a well-rounded compact SUV that punches above its weight in design, performance, and safety. Its thoughtful engineering and premium positioning ensure it remains relevant in 2025, even as competitors up the ante with features and hybrid options. Whether it’s the right fit depends on individual priorities—be it driving thrill, safety assurance, or long-term cost-effectiveness.
