Skoda Kushaq

Upon entering the Skoda Kushaq, you will quickly notice how the cabin has almost stayed the same from the previous generation, but has also got some much-needed changes.

Cabin Layout and Quality

The dashboard keeps its clean, clutter-free layout, with a large 10.1-inch touchscreen at the centre console, and a 10.25-inch digital driver's display on the top-spec variants now. Fit and finish are mostly excellent, with sturdy touchpoints. However, a few hard plastics linger lower down in the cabin. The touch panel for climate control remains, which can be slightly fiddly while driving. Strangely, the digital instrument cluster lacks a standard trip meter.

Seating Comfort

Front Row

The driving position is simply fantastic. The seats offer superb bolstering and excellent under-thigh support. The steering wheel adjusts according to reach, and the seat is high enough for the driver to see the road up ahead. Ventilated seats are also available on the higher trims. However, the cooling effect is somewhat weak; after a while, we barely felt it was on.

Second Row

The rear seat experience is where the 2026 Kushaq outdoes itself. Legroom is generous here thanks to the long wheelbase. Skoda has also given wave-type massaging seats for the back passengers. Furthermore, a panoramic sunroof is finally seen on the top-spec models, but the other variants make do with the standard electric sunroof.

Features That Improve Daily Use

• Google's Gemini-powered voice assistant
• Auto Climate Control is standard across all variants
• Wave-type massaging rear seats
• Panoramic sunroof on the higher trims
• Auto-dimming IRVM and auto wipers

The Kushaq will demand a slight premium over its naturally aspirated rivals. The pricing mostly justifies the tech upgrades and the new eight-speed automatic gearbox. While the entry-level variants will be quite inviting to browse, the fully loaded 1.5-litre TSI models sit firmly at the expensive end.

Ex-Showroom Prices (India)

The Kushaq is not the most frugal SUV in its class, as the punchy turbocharged engines think about performance first, and fuel economy later. The new eight-speed automatic on the 1.0-litre TSI is claimed to improve efficiency, but the larger 1.5-litre TSI is noticeably thirsty if you drive it enthusiastically.

However, Amaan notes,

"Skoda claims this new eight-speed automatic will offer better drivability and improved fuel efficiency."

Most notably, during our 5,000 km long-term test of the 1.5-litre TSI, the numbers were sobering. The city commute yielded merely 7 to 9 kmpl, although on the highway, it gave a more respectable 13 or 14 kmpl.

Observed Fuel Efficiency During Testing

Skoda has a reputation for safety, and the Kushaq makes it clear why. Its MQB-A0-IN platform feels incredibly solid, and the pre-facelift model had also famously bagged a five-star Global NCAP safety rating.

Passive Safety and Crash Protection

The Kushaq feels deeply reassuring, as its doors close with a reassuring, solid thud. Six airbags are there to protect the occupants, while ISOFIX child seat mounts are for the little ones at the back. It is undoubtedly one of the safest cars on Indian roads.

Active Safety and Stability Systems

Skoda has actively beefed up the standard safety kit. Base variants now get an auto-dimming IRVM, auto wipers, and a rear defogger, and higher trims get front parking sensors and four-wheel disc brakes for the 1.5-litre versions. Strangely, the Kushaq still does not have Level 2 ADAS. The rearview camera gives grainy footage, and there is no wide-angle view here. A 360-degree camera is also missing from the kit list.

Safety Verdict

The five-star rating speaks volumes about the Kushaq’s chassis, but the active safety tech feels a bit last-generation.

Some serious tech upgrades are in the new Kushaq, with the absolute highlight being the Google Gemini integration.

Amaan points out,

“You can say things like 'I'm hot,' and it will decrease the temperature or increase the blower speed.”

Infotainment and Interface

• The dashboard keeps the 10.1-inch touchscreen, but it is crisper and more responsive.
• The top-spec variants now get a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display.
• The AI voice assistant lets you operate cabin controls better than before while driving.
• As already mentioned, the current rearview camera still looks grainy.

Cabin Convenience and Practical Features

• Auto climate control is finally standard across all trim levels.
• The top-spec variants now also have a panoramic sunroof.
• Rear passengers get a unique wave-type pulsing back massage function.
• Ventilated seats cool the front passengers, though the airflow wasn’t that strong for us.

The Skoda Kushaq offers 385 litres of boot space. It handles weekend luggage with ease, and its load lip is also at a manageable height, letting you load heavier suitcases without running out of breath. It easily accommodates one large suitcase alongside a few soft bags. You can additionally fold down the rear seats to expand stowage when needed. This layout is good; it’s practical and highly usable for a small family.

The Kushaq is a true driver's car; its platform is solid. While the suspension feels like it could have done better, the overall experience is not too taxing, as you confidently cut through corners or bumps.

Seshan likes this bit about the car,

"Whether you’re on a straight highway or attacking a corner, the Kushaq is there for you every step of the way."

City Driving

In local traffic, the Kushaq feels nimble. The steering stays light, while the new eight-speed torque converter paired with the 1.0-litre engine has turned low-speed crawling far more predictable. It takes the blows from pothole-ridden tarmac reasonably well, and its compact dimensions mean you can lodge the car into a tight parking space easily.

Highway Driving

On the highways, the SUV feels planted. The 1.5-litre TSI engine is an absolute gem for fast cruising, and the car’s high-speed stability is excellent. You get plenty of confidence to execute quick overtakes. The steering also weighs up beautifully, offering precise feedback through fast bends. We noticed that it loves to be pushed hard on twisty roads.

Skoda is currently retailing the Kushaq in many trims. The lineup begins with the entry-level Classic and ends with the Prestige and Monte Carlo.

The Essentials That You Don’t Get

• A Level 2 ADAS suite even in 2026
• A high-resolution 360-degree parking camera
• A manual gearbox option for the 1.5-litre TSI engine
• Front parking sensors on the lower variants

Picking the right Kushaq depends heavily on your daily driving routine, as its two engines try to satisfy different customer needs.

Best for the City Commuter

The 1.0-litre AT in the Signature trim is the sweet spot. The new eight-speed automatic removes the stress of stop-start traffic, and it also gives adequate pep for urban duties while keeping running costs manageable.

Best for the Enthusiast

You have to pick the 1.5-litre TSI DSG in the Sportline or Monte Carlo trim here. It gives explosive power and razor-sharp gear shifts. We consider it hands down the most engaging drive in the segment.

Best for the Family

The 1.0-litre MT in the Prestige trim delivers great value. It packs a panoramic sunroof, standard auto climate control, and you get all the creature comforts without the premium price tag of the larger engine.