Skoda Auto has outlined a clear, two-track India roadmap—refreshing its mass-market SUV while reaffirming its performance credentials. The company has unveiled the Skoda Kushaq facelift with new colours and feature refinements, and confirmed the Skoda Kodiaq RS for India by June 2026.
Why this matters now: compact SUV buyers are demanding freshness in a crowded segment, while premium customers increasingly seek distinctive, enthusiast-led products. Skoda’s announcements address both realities at once.
Key Highlights
- Skoda Kushaq facelift unveiled for India
- Eight exterior colour options confirmed
- No changes announced to engines or gearboxes
- Interior and feature refinements introduced
- Kodiaq RS India launch confirmed by June 2026
Skoda Kushaq Facelift: Why This Update Matters Now
The Kushaq has matured in the market, but competition has intensified with frequent updates from rivals. Instead of a radical redesign, Skoda has opted for a targeted refresh—focusing on what influences buying decisions at the showroom: visual appeal, perceived quality, and feature balance.
This approach protects the Kushaq’s core strengths—ride quality, safety, and petrol engines—while giving buyers a reason to relook at it in 2025.
Exterior Updates & New Colour Options
Skoda has confirmed eight exterior paint choices, widening the Kushaq’s appeal across age groups and tastes.
Available colours:
Shimla Green
Cherry Red
Steel Grey
Candy White
Carbon Steel
Brilliant Silver
Lava Blue
Deep Black
In today’s compact SUV space, colour choice is no longer cosmetic—it’s a decision driver, especially for urban buyers comparing multiple SUVs side-by-side.
Powertrain Specs (Confirmed)
There are no mechanical changes with the facelift. Skoda continues with its proven petrol lineup.
| Engine | Power | Torque | Gearbox Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0-litre TSI petrol | 115 PS | 178 Nm | 6-speed MT / 6-speed AT |
| 1.5-litre TSI petrol | 150 PS | 250 Nm | 6-speed MT / 7-speed DSG |
This continuity reinforces the Kushaq’s positioning as a driver-friendly compact SUV, rather than a feature-led one.
Interior and Features
The cabin update is evolutionary, aimed at improving everyday usability and perceived quality.
Key interior highlights:
- Updated infotainment software
- Digital instrument cluster
- Improved material finish in select areas
- Ventilated front seats
- Wireless smartphone connectivity
- Multiple airbags and electronic safety aids
Skoda has focused on refinement over reinvention, a move likely to appeal to existing owners planning an upgrade.
Rivals: Where the Kushaq Facelift Sits
The Kushaq facelift continues to operate in one of India’s toughest SUV segments. Rather than chasing maximum features, it competes on driving confidence, safety focus, and European build character.
Compact SUV Rival Snapshot
| Model | Positioning Focus | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Creta | Mass-market favourite | Broad appeal, feature-rich |
| Kia Seltos | Design & tech-forward | Styling, infotainment |
| Volkswagen Taigun | Driver-focused sibling | Handling, engine performance |
| Maruti Grand Vitara | Efficiency-led SUV | Strong hybrid option |
| Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder | Reliability & mileage | Hybrid trust |
| Skoda Kushaq (Facelift) | Balanced European SUV | Ride quality, safety, engines |
How the Kushaq differentiates itself:
It targets buyers who value how an SUV drives and feels over sheer feature count—often those moving up from older sedans or premium hatchbacks.
Pricing Outlook
Skoda has not announced revised prices yet.
- Prices are expected to stay close to current Kushaq levels
- Any increase is likely to reflect added features rather than mechanical changes
This suggests Skoda is aiming to remain competitive without disrupting its value equation.
Skoda Kodiaq RS: Why This Confirmation Is Significant
The confirmation of the Kodiaq RS by June 2026 adds an important dimension to Skoda’s India strategy.
Performance-oriented SUVs are rare in India, especially those that blend speed, space, and daily usability. The Kodiaq RS will serve as a halo product, reinforcing Skoda’s enthusiast DNA even if volumes remain limited.
Skoda’s India Strategy, Clearly Defined
- Kushaq facelift: Maintain relevance, defend volumes, attract new compact SUV buyers
- Kodiaq RS: Build aspiration, brand excitement, and emotional connect
This balanced approach allows Skoda to stay grounded in the mass market while still standing out emotionally.
Buyer Takeaway
The Skoda Kushaq facelift delivers timely freshness without disturbing what buyers already value—strong petrol engines, stable ride quality, and safety focus. At the same time, the confirmed arrival of the Kodiaq RS shows Skoda’s intent to keep enthusiasts engaged.
For buyers, it’s a reassuring update today—and a more exciting Skoda lineup to look forward to tomorrow.
Chetan is passionate about cars and keeps a close eye on every new launch in the Indian automotive market. At AutoNewsWala, he writes detailed car reviews, covering design, performance, features, and value for money to help readers make smarter buying decisions. His expertise lies in simplifying complex automotive details into easy-to-understand insights for car lovers.
