Skoda Kushaq SUV breaks the cover ahead of launch in India

KUALA LUMPUR: After a long teaser campaigning, Skoda has finally pulled the wraps off the all-new Kushaq SUV, specifically developed for the Indian market. Based on the MQB-A0-IN platform, the model is a part of the company’s 2.0 project that aims at strengthening the Skoda and Volkswagen presence in the country.

Skoda initially previewed the SUV as Vision IN concept last year and the production version nearly features the same look. On the exterior, there is an eye-catching large Skoda butterfly grille flanked by sleek LED headlights with L-shaped LED DRLs and fog lights placed right below. The muscular bumper and aggressive air dams up the ferocity in its appearance. Included in the exterior highlights are LED tail lights, a roof spoiler, a rear diffuser, and 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels.

Dimensionally, the SUV is 4,221 mm long, 1,760 mm wide,1,612 mm tall, and has a wheelbase of 2,651 mm. The available boot capacity is 433 litres. 

Inside, the Skoda Kushaq boasts a 10-inch touchscreen display (7-inch as standard) with SmartLink tech, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto connectivity, six speakers, wireless smartphone charger, touch control panel for the Climatronic system, and ambient lighting. Included in the list are cruise control, rain and light sensors, rear parking sensors, auto-dimming IRVM, electric sunroof, keyless entry, rear-view camera, ventilated leather seats, and a cooled glovebox.

There is also a Skoda Connect connected car tech system on offer, which assists the user with functions like live car tracking, trip analysis, driving behaviour, and other security features.

Skoda offers the Kushaq in two engine options, first is a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged unit that produces a maximum output of 115 PS and a peak torque of 175 Nm. The mill can be paired with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a new fourth-generation six-speed automatic. The more powerful alternative is a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo unit good for delivering 150 PS and 250 Nm. Transmission options available with the bigger engine are a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed direct shift gearbox.

As for safety, the 2021 Skoda Kushaq specs sheet comprises up to 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, parking sensors, hill hold control, tyre pressure monitoring, a three-point seatbelt for the middle-row, and ISOFIX child seat mounts.

What about the Skoda Kushaq price? The Czech automaker has not revealed any info on the SUV’s price tag, however, it is confirmed that the bookings in India will commence in June with deliveries beginning from the month after. 

Also read: All-new Skoda Fabia features, specs, and other details out