The Skoda Kushaq facelift is set to make waves with exciting updates that go beyond mere styling revisions. Recently spotted on Indian roads, this refreshed model showcases a variety of new design elements. Originally launched in 2021, the Kushaq has been a strong contender in the competitive mid-size SUV market. However, with rivals like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos having undergone significant facelifts recently, it’s high time for the Kushaq to receive its much-anticipated overhaul.
The facelift will introduce an enhanced headlight arrangement and modern connected tail-lamps that elevate its aesthetic appeal. Additionally, it will feature cutting-edge technology such as a 360-degree camera system and Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), making it safer and more user-friendly than ever before.
Importantly, while the powertrains from the current model will remain intact for consistency, there’s an exciting upgrade on offer: a new 8-speed automatic transmission for the 1.0-litre engine. This combination of upgrades ensures that the Skoda Kushaq facelift not only keeps pace with its competitors but also reaffirms its position as a leading choice in today’s dynamic SUV landscape.
Skoda Kushaq facelift exterior design
The upcoming Kushaq facelift is set to impress with some compelling modifications. Our exclusive spy shots have uncovered that the front end will sport subtly upgraded headlights and lower fog lamp units that may be larger than what we see in the current model. Additionally, the front grille appears to feature slightly slimmer vertical slats, with a concealed upper half suggesting an integrated DRL setup akin to the new-gen Skoda Kodiaq. Even the air dam has been revamped, sporting a more squared-off pattern compared to today’s model.
Looking at it from the side, you might not notice many changes aside from a sleek new set of black alloy wheels. However, it’s at the rear where things get particularly exciting—the facelifted Kushaq will flaunt slimmer tail-lamps connected by an intriguing protruding section on the tailgate that might just house an LED strip. While details on the rear bumper are somewhat obscured due to camouflage, you can expect some thoughtful changes there as well. Overall, these enhancements make a strong case for why this makeover should not be missed.
Skoda Kushaq facelift interior and features
There will be 360-degree cameras and Level 2 ADAS available. We expect several modifications on this front as well, even though these spy photos don’t show the interior of the Kushaq makeover. The interior of the facelifted Kushaq is expected to have new trim pieces, new color options, and—most importantly—a broader list of amenities.
A Level 2 ADAS suite is one of the Kushaq facelift’s standout features, as we noted last year. This will help the mid-size SUV catch up to competitors who provide ADAS capability, such as the Creta, Seltos, Astor, Elevate, Curvv, and others. It is anticipated that the 360-degree camera that came with the Skoda Kylaq would also be included in the Kushaq facelift.
Skoda Kushaq facelift engine and gearbox
A new automatic gearbox is on the road, but the engine selections remain the same.
At least initially, the redesigned Kushaq won’t have any changes under the hood, as is customary with most facelifts. The Kushaq facelift will continue to support the 1.0-liter (115 horsepower, 178 Nm) and 1.5-liter (150 horsepower, 250 Nm) turbo-petrol engines with their corresponding manual and automatic transmission options: a 7-speed dual-clutch auto for the 1.5-liter motor and a 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque converter auto for the 1.0-liter unit. Notably, Skoda intends to gradually replace the 6-speed auto transmission with a new 8-speed torque converter auto for the 1.0-liter TSI engine found in the Kushaq. By increasing fuel efficiency, the new AISIN-sourced transmission will assist Skoda in meeting the requirements of the incoming CAFE III standards. It’s important to note, though, that the 8-speed auto will not be offered with the Kushaq makeover at launch; rather, it will be available later in 2026.
Skoda Kushaq facelift India launch details
In response to a query concerning the Kushaq and Slavia facelifts, Ashish Gupta, the brand director for Skoda India, stated in our most recent interview that the company’s product refresh cycles need to be “shorter” and that greater localization over the previous few years is essential to enhancing that area. The Kushaq facelift is anticipated to debut in India in the late 2025 to early 2026 window, as the typical facelift cycle lasts three to four years.