Skoda Auto India has officially pulled the covers—at least partially—off the 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift ahead of its launch later today. The updated mid-size SUV has been listed on the brand’s official website, revealing fresh exterior styling and hinting at a more premium direction for one of Skoda’s most important India-focused models.
Launched in 2021, the Kushaq has been a cornerstone of Skoda’s India 2.0 strategy. This facelift marks its first major update and brings the SUV in line with the carmaker’s latest global design language.
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What’s new on the outside?
The most noticeable changes are up front. The Kushaq facelift gets a redesigned grille, sleeker LED headlamps and a reworked front bumper that gives the SUV a sharper, more modern look. Skoda has also added a new set of alloy wheels, which subtly enhance the vehicle’s road presence.
While Skoda hasn’t revealed rear images yet, expectations are clear. The facelift is likely to feature updated LED taillights and a revised rear bumper to complete the refreshed look.
Cabin updates: More tech, more comfort
Inside, the 2026 Kushaq facelift is expected to feel more upmarket than before. Updates are likely to include new seat upholstery and a redesigned dashboard centred around a larger touchscreen infotainment system. An all-digital instrument cluster is also expected to make its debut.
Key features from the current model—such as the two-spoke steering wheel, Climatronic automatic climate control and front ventilated seats—are likely to continue. A major addition could be a panoramic sunroof, something buyers in this segment increasingly expect.
Safety remains a strong point
Built on the India-specific MQB-A0-IN platform, safety continues to be a core strength of the Kushaq. The outgoing model earned a five-star Global NCAP rating and comes equipped with six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-hold control, traction control, ISOFIX mounts, tyre pressure monitoring and more.
The facelifted version is expected to build on this solid safety package, reinforcing Skoda’s strong safety-first positioning in India.
Engine options likely unchanged
Mechanically, the Kushaq facelift is expected to retain its familiar turbo-petrol engines. The 1.0-litre three-cylinder TSI engine produces 115PS and 178Nm and is offered with manual and automatic torque converter options.
The more powerful 1.5-litre four-cylinder TSI engine, with 150PS and 250Nm, currently comes with a DSG automatic. There’s a chance Skoda may introduce a manual gearbox option with this engine in the facelift.
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Segment rivals and expected price
Once launched, the 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift will compete with rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Honda Elevate, Volkswagen Taigun and MG Astor.
Pricing is expected to see a marginal bump. While the outgoing model is priced between Rs 10.66 lakh and Rs 18.69 lakh (ex-showroom), the facelifted Kushaq is likely to start at around Rs 10.70 lakh and go up to nearly Rs 19 lakh (ex-showroom) for the top variant.
