The Indian SUV market just received exciting news. Production of the new Skoda Kushaq 2026 has officially begun at the Pune plant, marking a major milestone for Skoda Auto Volkswagen India. With enhanced comfort, advanced safety, and a brand-new 8-speed automatic transmission, the updated Kushaq is ready to raise the bar in the mid-size SUV segment.
This isn’t just a routine facelift — it represents Skoda’s deeper commitment to the Indian market under its “Make in India, for India and the World” strategy. Let’s explore everything you need to know about the new Kushaq in this detailed, human-focused, SEO-optimized guide.
A New Chapter for Skoda in India
The Kushaq was the first product developed under Skoda’s INDIA 2.0 strategy. Designed specifically for Indian road conditions, traffic patterns, and customer expectations, it quickly became a key pillar in the company’s growth story.
Now, in 2026, the updated Kushaq enters production at the Chakan plant in Pune, reinforcing India’s importance in Skoda’s global manufacturing ecosystem. The SUV has already contributed significantly to Skoda’s record-breaking sales performance in 2025.
What’s New in the 2026 Skoda Kushaq?
1. Segment-First Rear Seat Massage Function
One of the most surprising additions is the rear seat massage function — a feature usually found in premium luxury cars. This addition focuses heavily on passenger comfort, especially for long highway journeys.
2. Panoramic Sunroof
Sunroofs have become one of the most demanded features in India. The new Kushaq now offers a panoramic sunroof, giving the cabin an airy and premium feel.
3. New 8-Speed Torque Converter Automatic
The biggest mechanical upgrade is the introduction of an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission. This upgrade promises smoother gear shifts, improved highway cruising ability, and enhanced driving comfort compared to conventional setups.
4. Up to 40 Active and Passive Safety Features
Safety remains a top priority. The new Kushaq continues its strong safety legacy with up to 40 active and passive safety features, maintaining its 5-star safety positioning.
Engine Options & Performance Expectations
The new Kushaq is expected to continue with its trusted turbocharged petrol engines:
- 1.0L TSI Turbo Petrol – Ideal balance of performance and mileage
- 1.5L TSI Turbo Petrol – Strong performance with active cylinder technology
The addition of the 8-speed automatic enhances driving refinement and long-distance comfort. European driving dynamics — one of Skoda’s strongest strengths — remain intact.
Design – European Sophistication Meets Indian Roads
The Kushaq has always stood out for its bold and mature European design language. The 2026 version retains its muscular stance, sharp LED headlamps, crystalline design elements, and strong shoulder lines.
Inside, the cabin feels premium with soft-touch materials, digital displays, a modern infotainment system, and improved seat comfort. The panoramic sunroof significantly upgrades the cabin ambiance.
Comfort & Cabin Experience
The new Kushaq focuses heavily on comfort:
- Ventilated front seats (expected continuation)
- Rear seat massage function
- Spacious rear legroom
- Large boot capacity for family trips
For Indian families, comfort is just as important as performance — and the new Kushaq seems to deliver both.
Safety – A Core Strength
The Kushaq has built its reputation around strong safety credentials. With a high-strength steel body structure and multiple airbags, it continues to position itself as one of the safest SUVs in its segment.
Expected safety features include:
- Multiple airbags
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- ABS with EBD
- Hill Hold Control
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- Advanced driver assistance features (select variants)
Localization & “Make in India” Strategy
The new Kushaq strengthens Skoda’s localization efforts under the INDIA 2.0 project. High localization helps in:
- Lower ownership costs
- Affordable spare parts
- Faster service turnaround
The Pune plant plays a critical role in exporting vehicles globally, making India a strategic hub for Skoda’s global operations.
Expected Price in India
While official pricing will be announced at launch, the new Kushaq is expected to remain competitive within the ₹11 lakh to ₹19 lakh (ex-showroom) bracket depending on variant and transmission.
Considering added features like panoramic sunroof and 8-speed automatic, top variants may see a slight premium.
Competition in the Segment
The mid-size SUV segment in India is highly competitive. The new Kushaq competes with:
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Tata Nexon (upper variants)
- Honda Elevate
- Volkswagen Taigun
With its European engineering, new comfort upgrades, and strong safety reputation, the Kushaq aims to stand apart.
Ownership Experience & Network Expansion
Skoda Auto Volkswagen India now has nearly 700 customer touchpoints across the country. The company has been focusing heavily on service quality, reduced maintenance cost, and digital booking systems to enhance customer trust.
Should You Wait for the New Skoda Kushaq?
If you are planning to buy a mid-size SUV in 2026 and value:
- 5-star safety
- European driving dynamics
- Premium features like panoramic sunroof
- Advanced automatic transmission
- Strong highway performance
Then yes — the new Skoda Kushaq deserves serious consideration.
Final Verdict
The new Skoda Kushaq 2026 is more than just an update. It is a strategic upgrade that strengthens comfort, technology, and driving refinement while maintaining its core strength — safety and build quality.
With production already underway in Pune and deliveries expected soon, the SUV is poised to attract both urban professionals and family buyers looking for a safe yet premium mid-size SUV.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When will the new Skoda Kushaq 2026 launch in India?
Deliveries are expected to begin in March 2026 following the start of production.
2. What is the biggest upgrade in the new Kushaq?
The addition of an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission and a panoramic sunroof are major highlights.
3. Does the new Kushaq offer rear seat massage?
Yes, it introduces a segment-first rear seat massage function for enhanced comfort.
4. Is the Skoda Kushaq a safe SUV?
Yes, the Kushaq maintains strong safety credentials with multiple active and passive safety features.
5. What will be the expected price of the new Kushaq?
The expected price range is between ₹11 lakh to ₹19 lakh depending on variant.
