New Skoda Kushaq Debuts With Monte Carlo Edition

Skoda has officially unveiled the 2026 Kushaq facelift in India, with pre-bookings now open and prices scheduled to be announced in March. The updated midsize SUV brings noticeable changes to its exterior design, a more premium cabin, several long-awaited feature additions, and a new automatic gearbox option. 

With these updates, the Kushaq aims to strengthen its position against rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Honda Elevate, Tata Sierra, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Victoris.

On the outside, the Kushaq facelift adopts Skoda’s latest Modern Solid design language. The front end now looks sharper with slimmer LED headlamps featuring eyebrow-style DRLs and L-shaped signatures, connected by a segmented light bar inspired by the new Kodiaq. The redesigned bumper adds a sportier touch with a rugged silver skid plate. 

Side profile changes are subtle, limited mainly to newly designed alloy wheels sized between 16 and 17 inches, depending on the variant. At the rear, the facelift stands out with a connected LED light bar, illuminated Skoda lettering and sequential turn indicators. Skoda has also introduced three fresh paint options: Cherry Red, Shimla Green and Steel Grey. The Monte Carlo variant adds extra flair with red accents on the grille, gloss black exterior elements and exclusive badging.

Inside, the Kushaq facelift feels significantly more upmarket than before. The cabin now offers new colour themes, including a black and beige finish for the Prestige trim and a sportier crimson layout for the Monte Carlo versions. While the dashboard layout remains familiar, it is now paired with a larger 10.25-inch digital driver’s display and a slightly bigger 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. 

Ambient lighting in dual colours and the addition of a panoramic sunroof elevate the overall sense of space and comfort. Practicality has also improved, with boot capacity increased to 491 litres, making it one of the more usable options in the segment.

Feature upgrades are where the Kushaq facelift truly stands out. It introduces a segment-first rear seat massage function, along with six-way electrically adjustable front seats that also get ventilation. Other highlights include an electric sunroof as standard from the base variant, front parking sensors, leatherette upholstery, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad and a six-speaker sound system.

 Skoda has also integrated the Google Gemini AI assistant into the infotainment system, allowing users to access real-time information and control vehicle functions using voice commands.

Safety remains a strong point for the Kushaq. The facelift continues with a 5-star Global NCAP rating and comes standard with six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, traction control, hill-hold assist, electronic differential lock, ISOFIX mounts, rain-sensing wipers and an auto-dimming interior rearview mirror.

Under the hood, the Kushaq facelift retains the familiar turbo-petrol engine options. The 1.0 litre TSI engine producing 115 hp now gets a new 8-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, replacing the earlier 6-speed unit, while a 6-speed manual remains available. The more powerful 1.5 litre TSI engine delivers 150 hp and is paired exclusively with a 7-speed DSG automatic. Importantly, Skoda has finally added rear disc brakes to the 1.5 TSI variants, addressing a long-standing demand from buyers.

Skoda is offering the Kushaq facelift with a standard 4-year or 1,00,000 km warranty, extendable up to 6 years, along with 4 years of roadside assistance and four free labour services within the first 2 years or 30,000 km. With its sharper design, richer interiors and meaningful mechanical updates, the 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift positions itself as a more complete and competitive midsize SUV than before.

Source- Images by skoda media