The upcoming Skoda Kushaq facelift has been spotted testing in India, revealing new design tweaks, upgraded features, and a potential 8-speed automatic gearbox.
The Skoda Kushaq is set to receive its first major update since its debut in 2021, and fresh spy shots shared by Autocar India give us a closer look at what’s in store. The facelifted version of Skoda’s popular midsize SUV is expected to launch later this year or in early 2026, bringing subtle cosmetic changes, added tech, and an updated gearbox option.
On the design front, the test mule was seen wearing camouflage but still revealed a few key changes. At the front, the headlights appear slightly revised and are positioned closer to the updated, more squared-off fog lamp housings. The grille features slimmer vertical slats, and the upper part seems partially covered—possibly hinting at a connected DRL setup, similar to the one seen on the new-generation Skoda Kodiaq. A redesigned air dam with sharper geometric cuts adds to the SUV’s visual presence.
The profile of the Kushaq remains largely familiar, retaining its traditional door handles and blacked-out B-pillars. The most noticeable change here is the new set of black-finished alloy wheels. Around the back, updates include sleeker tail-lamps which now appear connected via a strip that runs across the tailgate—likely an LED light bar. Though the rear bumper remains camouflaged, minor changes are expected there as well.
Inside, Skoda is likely to introduce refreshed interior themes, ambient lighting, and possibly new upholstery materials. Equipment upgrades are on the cards, especially in terms of safety and driver assistance systems.
A major talking point for the facelift is the expected inclusion of Level 2 ADAS features—something that rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Honda Elevate have already introduced. The Kushaq’s current safety package is already strong, having earned a 5-star Global NCAP rating, but the facelift will likely add features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane keeping assist.
Under the hood, the Kushaq facelift will continue with the existing engine lineup—a 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine making 115 PS and 178 Nm of torque, and a 1.5-litre turbo petrol unit with 150 PS and 250 Nm of torque. The former currently comes with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the latter is paired with a 7-speed DSG.
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Interestingly, Skoda is preparing to replace the 6-speed automatic gearbox mated to the 1.0-litre engine with a new 8-speed torque converter automatic sourced from AISIN. While this update may not arrive at the time of the facelift launch, it is expected to follow soon after. The new gearbox aims to improve fuel efficiency and help the SUV comply with upcoming CAFE III norms.
With these changes, the Skoda Kushaq facelift is expected to command a slight premium over the current model, which is priced between ₹11 lakh and ₹19 lakh (ex-showroom). Alongside the Kushaq, the Slavia sedan is also expected to receive similar ADAS updates.
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For now, the facelifted Kushaq remains under wraps, but as testing continues and the official reveal nears, more details are likely to emerge. Stay tuned for further updates on what could be Skoda’s most significant upgrade to its India lineup in recent years.
