Skoda Auto India has officially unveiled the 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift, bringing significant upgrades to styling, features, technology and powertrain options. Pre-bookings for the updated midsize SUV have commenced across dealerships, while official prices are expected to be announced in March 2026.
The facelifted Kushaq strengthens Skoda’s position in the highly competitive midsize SUV segment, where it competes with popular models such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Honda Elevate, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Tata Sierra.
With this update, Skoda has focused on addressing customer feedback by adding a panoramic sunroof, improving cabin tech, expanding safety equipment and introducing a smoother automatic gearbox option.
2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift exterior design updates
The Kushaq facelift adopts Skoda’s latest Modern Solid design philosophy, giving the SUV a sharper and more contemporary road presence. At the front, it now features redesigned LED headlamps with eyebrow-style DRLs and distinctive L-shaped lighting signatures. These are connected via a segmented LED light element integrated into the grille, inspired by the new-generation Kodiaq.
The front bumper has been reworked with a more angular design and a prominent silver skid plate, enhancing the SUV’s rugged appeal. The Monte Carlo variants receive additional sporty touches, including red grille accents, gloss-black exterior trim replacing chrome elements, and exclusive Monte Carlo badging.
The side profile remains largely familiar, though Skoda has introduced new alloy wheel designs ranging from 16 to 17 inches, depending on the variant. At the rear, the facelift brings a major visual upgrade in the form of a full-width LED light bar with illuminated SKODA lettering, along with sequential turn indicators.
Skoda has also expanded the colour palette by introducing Cherry Red, Shimla Green and Steel Grey, giving buyers more personalization options.
Interior upgrades and cabin changes
Inside, the 2026 Kushaq facelift feels noticeably more premium. The Prestige variants feature a black-and-beige interior theme, while the Monte Carlo trims get a sporty crimson-accented cabin. Although the overall dashboard layout remains familiar, nearly every key element has been upgraded.
Highlights include a 10.25-inch fully digital driver’s display, a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with updated software, dual-colour ambient lighting and, most importantly, a panoramic sunroof — a feature that was long requested by customers.
Interestingly, Skoda now claims a 491-litre boot capacity, which is significantly higher than before. This increase is likely due to a revised luggage measurement method that accounts for space up to the roofline.
Skoda Kushaq facelift features and technology
The feature list on the facelifted Kushaq is one of the most comprehensive in its segment. A major talking point is the segment-first rear-seat massage function, aimed at improving comfort for back-seat passengers.
Other key features include 6-way electrically adjustable front seats with ventilation, front parking sensors, leatherette upholstery, automatic climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger and a 6-speaker audio system.
A standout addition is the integration of Google Gemini AI into the infotainment system. This allows users to access real-time information, news updates and voice-controlled vehicle functions, enhancing the overall connected-car experience.
Safety remains a strong point. The Kushaq facelift comes standard with six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, traction control, electronic differential lock, hill-hold assist, ISOFIX child-seat mounts, rain-sensing wipers and an auto-dimming IRVM. The SUV also retains its 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, carried over from the outgoing model.
2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift engine options and transmission
Under the hood, the biggest mechanical update is the introduction of a new 8-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox for the 1.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine, which produces 115hp. This replaces the earlier 6-speed automatic and is expected to offer smoother performance and better drivability, especially in city conditions. The 1.0 TSI continues to be available with a 6-speed manual transmission as well.
For buyers seeking higher performance, the 1.5-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine delivering 150hp remains on offer, paired exclusively with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Importantly, Skoda has finally equipped the 1.5 TSI variants with rear disc brakes, addressing a long-standing demand from enthusiasts.
Warranty and ownership benefits
Skoda is offering the Kushaq facelift with a standard 4-year or 1,00,000 km warranty, extendable up to 6 years. Buyers also receive 4 years of roadside assistance and four free labour services for up to 2 years or 30,000 km, enhancing overall peace of mind.
All prices will be announced ex-showroom, India.
