Skoda Kushaq – Confidence in Motion
The Skoda Kushaq isn’t just another compact SUV on the road — it’s a reflection of what happens when European precision meets Indian practicality. Introduced as part of Skoda’s India 2.0 strategy, the Kushaq was tailor-made for Indian roads and preferences while staying true to the brand’s global DNA.
In 2025, the Skoda Kushaq continues to impress with its solid build, engaging driving dynamics, and a touch of understated luxury that sets it apart from the flashy crowd. It’s not trying too hard to please everyone; instead, it focuses on doing what Skoda does best — offering quality, sophistication, and a drive that makes you want to take the long way home.
| Specification | Details (2025 Model) |
|---|---|
| Model | Skoda Kushaq |
| Engine Options | 1.0L TSI (115 PS), 1.5L TSI (150 PS) |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual / 6-speed AT / 7-speed DSG |
| Torque | 178 Nm (1.0L) / 250 Nm (1.5L) |
| Fuel Efficiency | 17–19 km/l (approx.) |
| Platform | MQB-A0-IN |
| Boot Space | 385 litres |
| Ground Clearance | 188 mm |
| Price Range (2025) | ₹11.89 lakh – ₹19.69 lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Rivals | Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, VW Taigun |
Design and Styling – Sculpted with Purpose
Skoda has always been known for its clean, timeless design language, and the Skoda Kushaq is no exception. The SUV embodies the brand’s “Simply Clever” philosophy — every line, every crease, every contour has a purpose.
The front end is bold and instantly recognizable with Skoda’s signature butterfly grille, flanked by sharp LED headlamps and crystalline DRLs. The sculpted bonnet adds muscle, while the neatly contoured bumper and skid plate give it that SUV stance without being overdone.
Move to the sides, and the Skoda Kushaq showcases its European poise — strong shoulder lines, flared wheel arches, and a balanced profile that looks proportionate from every angle. The 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, and chrome accents add a touch of flair.
At the rear, the LED tail lamps with Skoda’s crystalline pattern look stunning, especially at night. The bold SKODA lettering across the tailgate and the dual-tone bumper complete the look. It’s an SUV that commands attention, not through aggression, but through elegance and confidence.
The Skoda Kushaq isn’t about showing off — it’s about showing up with style and substance.
Interior – Where Comfort Meets Craftsmanship
Step inside the Skoda Kushaq, and you immediately sense the attention to detail. The cabin feels premium, contemporary, and thoughtfully designed. Skoda has nailed the balance between form and function — nothing feels excessive, yet everything feels special.
The dashboard design is clean and symmetrical, with a free-standing 10-inch touchscreen taking center stage. The touchpoints feel solid, the plastics are of high quality, and the fit-and-finish is easily among the best in class. The dual-tone interiors with brushed aluminum accents and ambient lighting give the cabin a distinctly European vibe.
The seats are supportive and generously cushioned, offering excellent lumbar support even on long drives. The front seats now get ventilation — a feature that’s a blessing during Indian summers. The rear seat space is more than adequate, with ample legroom and headroom, and the wide windows make the cabin feel airy.
Skoda has also ensured practicality with plenty of storage areas — large door pockets, cupholders, and a cooled glovebox. The boot, at 385 litres, is deep and usable, perfect for weekend getaways.
Technology and Features – Smart, Intuitive, and Future-Ready
The Skoda Kushaq isn’t just about driving — it’s about the experience that comes with it. The 10-inch infotainment touchscreen is crisp and responsive, with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The digital instrument cluster adds a modern touch, displaying everything from navigation to fuel efficiency in clean, vibrant graphics.
Skoda has also included a host of convenience features such as keyless entry, push-button start, automatic climate control, wireless charging, and a premium 6-speaker audio system (with a subwoofer in higher trims).
The 2025 update also brings improved connectivity with the MySkoda Connect app — offering real-time vehicle tracking, geo-fencing, and remote access features.
Safety, as always, is a top priority for Skoda. The Skoda Kushaq comes with up to six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC (standard across all variants), traction control, hill-hold assist, and ISOFIX mounts. It’s also one of the few SUVs in the segment with a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating for both adult and child occupants.
Performance – Power That Inspires Confidence
Under the hood, the Skoda Kushaq offers two turbo-petrol engines, both from the brand’s acclaimed TSI family. The smaller 1.0-litre TSI engine produces 115 PS and 178 Nm of torque, while the more powerful 1.5-litre TSI churns out 150 PS and 250 Nm.
The 1.0 TSI is punchy, refined, and perfect for city driving. It feels light on its feet, and the turbo lag is minimal. On the other hand, the 1.5 TSI is a gem — smooth, eager, and capable of delivering a genuine thrill when you floor it. It even features Active Cylinder Technology (ACT), which shuts off two cylinders during light load to improve fuel efficiency.
Transmission options include a slick 6-speed manual, a 6-speed torque converter automatic, and the much-loved 7-speed DSG gearbox. The DSG, in particular, transforms the driving experience — quick shifts, responsive acceleration, and a sense of connection that few rivals can match.
Few SUVs in this price range manage to make driving this enjoyable — and that’s the magic of the Skoda Kushaq.
Ride and Handling – European DNA, Indian Roads
The Skoda Kushaq is built on the MQB-A0-IN platform — a localized version of Volkswagen Group’s global architecture. This gives it a robust structure and excellent driving dynamics.
On the road, the Kushaq feels planted and composed. The suspension tuning strikes the perfect balance between comfort and control. It soaks up potholes and rough patches with ease, yet feels taut and confident on highways. The steering is precise and weighs up nicely as speeds increase, giving you a sense of assurance through corners.
The 188 mm ground clearance ensures it can tackle bad roads and speed breakers without scraping its belly, while the compact footprint makes it easy to maneuver in city traffic. In short, the Skoda Kushaq feels European in its stability and Indian in its adaptability.
Fuel Efficiency and Ownership Experience
Despite its performance focus, the Skoda Kushaq doesn’t disappoint on efficiency. The 1.0 TSI delivers around 18–19 km/l on highways and 14–15 km/l in city conditions. The 1.5 TSI, thanks to cylinder deactivation, manages an impressive 17–18 km/l when driven sensibly.
Skoda has also made strides in improving ownership costs. The brand now offers maintenance packages, extended warranties, and transparent service pricing to enhance customer confidence. The network has expanded significantly, particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, ensuring better accessibility and after-sales support.
The 2025 Updates – More Polish, More Personality
The 2025 Skoda Kushaq brings subtle yet meaningful upgrades. The infotainment software has been refined for smoother operation, the cabin materials feel richer, and the DSG gearbox calibration has been optimized for better low-speed performance.
There are also new exterior shades, improved seat fabric, and updated alloy designs. These aren’t headline-grabbing changes, but they collectively enhance the ownership experience and reinforce the Kushaq’s premium feel.
The Driving Experience – The Joy of Control
Driving the Skoda Kushaq is an experience that never gets old. It’s a car that responds intuitively to every input — the steering, the throttle, the brakes — all feel harmoniously tuned. On city roads, it glides effortlessly, while on highways, it feels rock solid and confident even at triple-digit speeds.
The cabin remains quiet, with minimal engine or wind noise. The suspension feels mature, and the brakes inspire confidence. Every element of the Kushaq feels engineered to deliver satisfaction, not just functionality.
You don’t just drive the Skoda Kushaq — you connect with it.
The Verdict – A Compact SUV with a Big Heart
The Skoda Kushaq isn’t about gimmicks or flash. It’s about getting the fundamentals right — solid build, refined engines, engaging dynamics, and a sense of quality that’s becoming rare in its segment.
In a market dominated by feature-packed crossovers, the Kushaq stands apart as the driver’s choice — the SUV for those who appreciate engineering over excess. It delivers on performance, safety, and comfort while maintaining that distinct European flair.
For 2025, the Skoda Kushaq remains one of the most complete compact SUVs you can buy in India. It’s stylish without being loud, powerful without being intimidating, and practical without being boring.
If driving pleasure had a shape, it would probably look like the Skoda Kushaq.
FAQs About Skoda Kushaq
Q1. What engine options are available in the Skoda Kushaq?
The Skoda Kushaq is offered with two turbo-petrol engines — a 1.0L TSI (115 PS) and a 1.5L TSI (150 PS).
Q2. What is the mileage of the Skoda Kushaq?
The 1.0L engine offers around 18–19 km/l on highways, while the 1.5L delivers about 17–18 km/l.
Q3. Does the Skoda Kushaq come with a diesel engine?
No, the Skoda Kushaq is available only with petrol engines.
Q4. What transmission options does the Skoda Kushaq offer?
It comes with a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic, and a 7-speed DSG gearbox.
Q5. Is the Skoda Kushaq a safe SUV?
Yes, it has a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating for both adult and child protection.
Q6. How is the performance of the 1.5 TSI engine?
The 1.5 TSI is powerful, smooth, and delivers excellent mid-range performance, making highway driving effortless.
Q7. What are the key rivals of the Skoda Kushaq?
Its main competitors include the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, VW Taigun, and Honda Elevate.
Q8. What is the price of the Skoda Kushaq in 2025?
Prices range from ₹11.89 lakh to ₹19.69 lakh (ex-showroom, India).
Q9. Is the Skoda Kushaq good for long drives?
Absolutely. Its comfortable seats, refined engine, and stable highway manners make it excellent for road trips.
Final Thoughts
The Skoda Kushaq is more than just an SUV — it’s a statement of taste, engineering, and individuality. It’s for those who appreciate the joy of driving as much as the comfort of arriving.
With its solid build, powerful engines, top-tier safety, and understated elegance, the Skoda Kushaq proves that driving in style doesn’t have to mean being loud — it means being confident.