Skoda Kushaq Facelift Finally Breaks Cover in India

The wait is finally over. After months of spy shots and teasers, Skoda Auto India has officially taken the covers off the 2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift.

If you felt the current Kushaq was missing a bit of "bling" or premium features compared to its Korean rivals, Skoda has just answered your prayers. Unveiled alongside the Monte Carlo edition (and some big news about the Octavia RS!), the new Kushaq is set to launch in March 2026, with pre-bookings starting today.

Here is a detailed look at how Skoda has reinvented its best-seller.

Design: Sharper, Bolder, and "Connected"

Skoda hasn't just tweaked the bumpers; they have given the Kushaq a proper glow-up to match modern trends.

• The Light Game: The most noticeable change is the new headlamp design featuring connected DRLs that span the entire width of the car. It gives the SUV a wider, more futuristic stance.
• Front Profile: A new grille with Piano Black and Chrome elements sits above a revised bumper housing new LED fog lamps.
• Side & Rear: The profile gets fresh 17-inch alloy wheels, but the rear steals the show. It now features connected tail lamps with sequential turn indicators and—wait for it—a glowing red Skoda logo on the tailgate. That is a cool touch that will definitely turn heads at night.

New Colour Palette:

You can now pick from a wide range of shades: Shimla Green, Brilliant Silver, Candy White, Carbon Steel, Cherry Red, Deep Black, Lava Blue, and Steel Grey.

Interior: A Tech & Comfort Overhaul

This is where the Kushaq Facelift truly steps up its game. The cabin now feels significantly more upmarket with a dual-tone Grey and Beige theme.

• Panoramic Sunroof: Finally! Skoda has addressed the biggest customer demand by adding a panoramic sunroof.
• Segment-First Comfort: In a surprising move, the Kushaq now offers a massage function for the rear seat. Yes, you read that right—chauffeur-driven owners are going to love this.
• Tech Upgrades:
• New 10.1-inch infotainment system.
• Fully digital instrument cluster.
• AI Companion: Powered by Google, offering advanced voice commands.
• Ventilated front seats and a 6-way electrically adjustable driver seat.

Monte Carlo: The Sporty Sibling

For those who find chrome boring, the Kushaq Monte Carlo is back. As expected, it ditches the shiny bits for a stealthy look.

• Exterior: Blacked-out elements, sporty red strips, and Monte Carlo badging.
• Interior: An exclusive Red and Black cabin theme that screams performance.

Powertrain: A Big Surprise for the 1.0L Engine

Skoda has retained its fun-to-drive DNA but introduced a massive mechanical update for the smaller engine.

• 1.0L TSI: This unit puts out 104 hp and is now paired with a segment-first 8-speed Torque Converter automatic. This replaces the old 6-speed torque converter, promising smoother shifts and better efficiency.
• 1.5L TSI: The enthusiast's choice remains the 1.5-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol, churning out 147 hp and 250 Nm of torque. This engine continues with the lightning-fast 7-speed DSG.

Safety First:

True to Skoda’s reputation, the facelift comes loaded with safety tech:

• 6 Airbags & ABS with EBD
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Disc Brakes (likely all-wheel disc on top trims)
• TPMS & Hill Hold Control
• Rain-sensing wipers & Rear defogger

Quick Specs: 2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift

Is This the SUV for You?

With these updates, the Kushaq is no longer just the "driver's choice"—it's a complete family package.

• Wait for it if: You prioritize rear-seat comfort (that massage feature is unique!) and want a European car with modern flair like connected lights and a panoramic sunroof.
• Look elsewhere if: You need a diesel engine for ultra-high mileage running, as Skoda remains a petrol-only brand.

Final Thoughts

Skoda has clearly listened to the market. By adding the panoramic sunroof and connected lights, they have fixed the visual gaps. But by adding an 8-speed auto and rear massage seats, they have gone a step further to surprise us.

The battlefield just got heated, and with the Kylaq Sportline, Kodiaq RS, and Octavia RS also teased, Skoda is entering 2026 with guns blazing.

Author: Neha Mehlawat

Neha Mehlawat is an automotive journalist and industry analyst with 10+ years of experience covering cars, bikes, and mobility trends. She tracks the latest launches, technology upgrades, and policy changes in the auto sector, delivering sharp insights that help readers stay ahead in the fast-evolving world of automobiles.