Skoda Kushaq Facelift Launched with 8-Speed AT Gearbox at Rs. 10.69 Lakh

Skoda Auto India has officially introduced the highly anticipated 2026 Kushaq facelift, the most significant update since its 2021 debut. Priced between Rs. 10.69 lakh to Rs. 18.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the facelift brings several refreshed features. This includes a revamped 8-speed transmission and enhanced safety features - rated 5-star in GNCAP safety tests.

Exterior Design: The "Modern Solid" Look

The 2026 Kushaq gets a sharper, more mature aesthetic inspired by Skoda's global design direction. The most striking change is at the front, where the signature butterfly grille is now larger and features a 3D effect.

• Illuminated Grille: The signature butterfly grille now features an integrated LED light bar that connects the headlights.
• Lighting: Slimmer LED headlamps and "crystalline" connected LED taillights with an illuminated Skoda wordmark at the rear.
• Rugged Elements: New 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels (standard on top trims) and redesigned bumpers with beefier silver skid plates.
• New Palette: Introduces striking new colors like Cherry Red, Shimla Green and Steel Grey.

Interior & Tech

Inside, the cabin layout remains ergonomically sound but receives a massive boost in material quality and equipment levels. Skoda has addressed several customer feedback points regarding "premium feel."

• Rear Seat Massage: In a segment-first, the top-tier trims now come equipped with massaging functions for the rear seats.
• Infotainment: A new 10.1-inch touchscreen featuring a Google Gemini AI assistant for voice-activated tasks and 3D navigation.
• Panoramic Sunroof: Addressing a major customer demand, the 2026 model finally swaps the small electric sunroof for a full panoramic unit.
• Digital Cockpit: An updated 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit with customizable interfaces and a dedicated black-and-beige theme for a more airy cabin feel.

Drivetrain: The 8-Speed Revolution

The most significant mechanical change lies in the transmission department. The facelift gets an updated 8-speed automatic torque converter for the 1.0L engine, replacing the older 6-speed gearbox.

Feature	1.0 TSI Petrol	1.5 TSI Petrol
Power	114 bhp	148 bhp
Torque	178 Nm	250 Nm
New Transmission	8-Speed Torque Converter	7-Speed DSG (Automatic Only)
Old Transmission	6-Speed Torque Converter	6-Speed Manual / 7-Speed DSG
Braking	Front Discs / Rear Drums	Discs on all 4 Wheels

However, the 6-speed gearbox is also available but with manual controls. Customers can opt for the 1.5 petrol engine for better performance which is available with 7-speed dual-clutch AT gearbox. Although, the manual option is not available for this.

2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift Price (Ex-Showroom)

New Skoda Kushaq Facelift Variants	Ex-Showroom Price
Classic+	Rs. 10.69 Lakh - Rs. 12.69 Lakh
Signature	Rs. 14.59 Lakh - Rs. 15.59 Lakh
Sportline	Rs. 14.74 Lakh - Rs. 15.74 Lakh
Prestige	Rs. 16.79 Lakh - Rs. 18.89 Lakh
Monte Carlo	Rs. 17.89 Lakh - Rs. 18.99 Lakh

The 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift is a refined evolution that prioritizes mechanical improvements and cabin luxury. While it continues to lack ADAS features, the introduction of the 8-speed gearbox and rear massage seats. This makes it a unique, enthusiast-friendly proposition in the C-SUV segment.

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