2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift Teased: The compact SUV battle in India is heating up fast, and Skoda Auto is gearing up to strike back. The brand has officially teased the 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift, marking the first major update to the SUV since its debut in 2021. With rivals rapidly raising the bar, the refreshed Kushaq is expected to make its official launch later this month.
While the teaser keeps the SUV under heavy camouflage, recent spy shots and industry insights give us a fairly clear picture of what’s coming.
2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift: What’s New?
Updated Exterior Design
Test mules spotted on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway suggest noticeable cosmetic changes at both ends. The facelifted Kushaq is expected to adopt a sharper and more premium design language.
Key exterior highlights likely to include:
- Redesigned LED headlamps with updated LED DRLs
- Sequential LED turn indicators
- A connected DRL light bar, inspired by the global Skoda design theme
- New 17-inch alloy wheels with a refreshed pattern
- Revised front and rear bumpers
- Wraparound LED tail-lamps connected via a light bar
- Introduction of new exterior colour options
These updates aim to give the Kushaq a stronger road presence and better visual alignment with Skoda’s newer international SUVs.
Interior Refresh & Feature Additions
Inside, the 2026 Kushaq facelift is expected to receive subtle but meaningful upgrades. While the overall dashboard layout may remain familiar, Skoda is likely to introduce new cabin colour themes and upholstery materials for a fresher feel.
Expected Features List
- 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- 8-inch fully digital driver’s display
- Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- 8-speaker premium audio system
- Automatic climate control with rear AC vents
- Ventilated front seats
- Wireless phone charging
A major talking point is the possible addition of a panoramic sunroof, a feature that has become increasingly important in this segment.
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Safety Gets a Boost
Safety is expected to remain a strong focus for the Kushaq facelift. Standard equipment is likely to include:
- Six airbags
- Rear parking camera with sensors
- TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System)
- ISOFIX child-seat mounts
- Hill-hold assist
To stay competitive, Skoda may also introduce:
- 360-degree camera
- Level-2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)
If confirmed, this would significantly enhance the Kushaq’s appeal among safety-conscious buyers.
Engine & Transmission Options (Unchanged but Proven)
Mechanically, the facelifted Kushaq will continue with its current turbo-petrol engine lineup and front-wheel-drive layout.
Powertrain Specifications
| Engine | Transmission Options | Power | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0L Turbo Petrol | 6-speed MT / 6-speed AT | 115 PS | 178 Nm |
| 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 6-speed MT / 7-speed DCT | 150 PS | 250 Nm |
These engines are already well-regarded for their performance and drivability, so retaining them makes strategic sense.
2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift Price & Rivals
The 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift price is expected to start at around ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom). Depending on feature additions like ADAS and a panoramic sunroof, higher variants could see a slight premium over the outgoing model.
In terms of competition, the refreshed Kushaq will continue to take on popular compact SUVs from Hyundai, Kia, Maruti Suzuki, Tata, Honda, Renault, Nissan, and Volkswagen.
With updated styling, potential segment-first features, and improved safety tech, the 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift looks well-positioned to strengthen its standing in India’s fiercely competitive compact SUV segment. If Skoda gets the pricing right, the updated Kushaq could once again become a compelling choice for buyers seeking European design, strong performance, and modern features.
Yogesh Kolhe is a market and business news author with a focus on the automobile sector and gold and silver price movements, offering readers practical insights into industry and market trends.
