Skoda seems to be in a romantic mood this season. If you grew up watching Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) and dreaming of running through mustard fields, Skoda’s latest teaser for the Kushaq facelift is going to hit you right in the feels.
The Czech carmaker is gearing up to launch the refreshed Kushaq in India next week, and they are pulling out all the stops. With a tagline that says "Get ready to fall in love," and visuals set against a dreamy Sarson ka khet (mustard field) backdrop, Skoda isn't just selling a car; they are selling an emotion.
But look past the filmy drama, and you will see some serious upgrades. Here is everything the new teasers have revealed about the upcoming Skoda Kushaq facelift.
Design Updates: Sharper, Wider, Bold
The first thing you notice in the teaser is the silhouette. While the core shape remains familiar, the lighting game has leveled up significantly.
- Connected Lights are In: The biggest visual change is at the rear. The new Kushaq gets a connected LED light bar that links the tail lamps. This is a massive trend in the segment (looking at you, Seltos and Creta), and it gives the SUV a wider, more premium stance.
- Illuminated Badging: It’s not just the lights; even the SKODA lettering on the tailgate is now illuminated. It looks futuristic and distinctly European.
- Front Facelift: Up front, we see a full-width LED daytime running light (DRL) strip. Combined with a sharper grille and tweaked bumper, the face looks more aggressive and contemporary.
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Interior & Features: Catching Up to Rivals
Let’s be honest—the current Kushaq is great to drive, but it felt a bit "yesterday" in terms of tech compared to its Korean rivals. This facelift aims to fix that.
While Skoda hasn't revealed the full cabin yet, leaks and industry whispers suggest major additions:
- Panoramic Sunroof: Finally! The single-pane sunroof was a dealbreaker for many, and the facelift is expected to bring a massive panoramic glass roof to let more light in.
- Digital Cockpit: Expect a fully digital instrument cluster replacing the older analogue-digital mix.
- Infotainment: A larger touchscreen with crisper graphics and a smoother interface is likely on the cards.
Engine & Performance: Bad News for Purists?
This is where things get interesting—and potentially heartbreaking for driving enthusiasts.
The mechanicals remain largely similar, featuring the trusty 1.0-litre TSI and the rocket-ship 1.5-litre TSI engines. However, there is a catch.
- The Manual Might Go: Early reports suggest that the 1.5-litre TSI engine might only be offered with the DSG automatic transmission. If true, the enthusiast-favourite 6-speed manual option on the bigger engine could be history.
- Safety Bump: On the bright side, the 1.5L variants are expected to gain rear disc brakes, which will significantly improve stopping power.
- ADAS is Coming: To keep pace with the competition, higher-spec models will likely feature Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
Expected Updates vs Current Model
Here is a quick look at how the new model improves upon the outgoing one.
|
Feature |
Current Kushaq |
Kushaq Facelift (Expected) |
|
Tail Lamps |
Standard Split LED |
Connected LED Light Bar |
|
Front Lighting |
Standard DRLs |
Full-width Connected DRL |
|
Sunroof |
Single Pane |
Panoramic Sunroof |
|
Safety |
6 Airbags, ESC |
Level 2 ADAS, Rear Disc Brakes |
|
1.5L Transmission |
Manual & DSG |
DSG Only (Likely) |
Should You Wait for the Launch?
With the launch just a week away, you might be wondering if you should hold onto your chequebook.
- Wait for the Facelift if: You want the latest tech. If features like a panoramic sunroof, ADAS, and a modern look with connected lights matter to you, the wait is absolutely worth it. The resale value of the new model will also be better down the line.
- Buy the Current Model if: You are a die-hard driving enthusiast who wants the 1.5 TSI with a Manual Gearbox. Dealers are likely clearing stock with heavy discounts right now. If you want that manual stick shift engagement, grab the current version before it disappears forever.
Final Thoughts
Skoda knows that the Indian market runs on emotions (and features). By blending a nostalgic Bollywood marketing campaign with modern tech upgrades like ADAS and connected screens, they are trying to win both hearts and minds.
The Kushaq was already the "driver’s choice" in the segment. Now, it wants to be the "family's choice" too.
What do you think? Will the lack of a manual gearbox on the 1.5 TSI make you look elsewhere, or does the new design make up for it?
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