Autocar India
AR

Arvind

29w

I'm considering investing in the top-end 1.0L Skoda Kushaq. Should I wait for the upcoming facelifted version, or is the current model still a solid choice? I drive approximately 30 kilometers daily. Additionally, should I consider upgrading to the 1.5L engine instead of the 1.0L?

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
29w

A comprehensive update for the Kushaq is still some time away. So, we’d recommend going for the current model - it is a very competent car. You may choose one of the special variants, such as the Anniversary edition, which comes with some unique cosmetic touches. If you enjoy driving, you will definitely appreciate the 1.5 TSI’s stronger performance and effortless drive. Therefore, if your budget allows, it’s best to opt for the 1.5 over the 1.0 TSI.

Skoda Kushaq

Skoda Kushaq

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SA

Santhosh

1d

Spoiled by the ride and handling, and the torque characteristics of the Punto MJD for the past 13 years, I am now looking to buy a new automatic car, as the Punto spends most of its time at the FNG. My usage is 70% city driving and approximately 5,000-6,000 km per year. My city drives are mostly office commutes of 15–20 km a day in light traffic (not bumper-to-bumper). Among the Kylaq AT, Kushaq 1.0 AT, and Kushaq 1.5 DSG (MY25 with discount), which one can match the solid, dynamic, and abuse-friendly nature of my Punto? I also need a reliable service network, so I am avoiding Citroën.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
7h

They don't make them like they used to, and few new cars today can replicate the feel of your Punto. That said, you're on the right track with Skoda car, and the Kushaq 1.0 TSI AT is probably the best of the lot. It's more spacious than the Kylaq while not being large enough to be cumbersome, and unlike the MY25 1.5 TSI option, you're getting the latest facelifted Kushaq here, with all the benefits, including the updated AC with a variable-geometry compressor. Plus, since your usage is 70% in the city, you'll appreciate the smoother 8-speed torque converter, compared to the 7-speed DSG of the 1.5.You will like the way the Kushaq feels tough over bad patches and speed breakers. The body control is tight and the steering has some weight, so it gives you confidence in a way few new cars do. There's no diesel here, but coming from the Punto’s MJD, the 1.0 TSI will feel sufficiently strong. Skoda service has improved but still, ask around about the nearest workshop that you would be using, and take the longest warranty you can.

VehicleSkoda Kushaq
VehicleSkoda Kylaq
KE

Kesar

3d

I have upgraded from a Fiat Punto 90 HP to a Fronx because of spares issues, as my car had clocked 2,50,000 km. But the ride on the Fronx is not as nimble as compared to the Punto. Can you recommend an upgrade, as I do a lot of highway runs, mostly in the mountains? My budget is approximately ₹18 lakh.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
2d

Check out the the Skoda Kushaq 1.0 TSI Signature. It will feel closer to your old Punto than the Fronx does. The steering has good weight and the car turns in eagerly, so it is easy to place in tight bends and hairpins. The suspension takes rough patches well without tossing you around, and the car feels steady at highway speeds. The 115hp turbo petrol has strong pull once spinning, so quick overtakes on climbs are simple, and with the manual, you have full control of gears on steep sections. It also has a solid safety record, which matters on hill roads.A couple of things to note. At very low revs, you may need a downshift to get going cleanly on an uphill, so keep it in the right gear. Also, Skoda’s service reach is not as wide as Maruti’s, so check dealer support in your town.Other alternatives include the Renault Duster Techno Plus 1.3 Turbo, which feels tough, comfortable and characterful, but not as nimble, and as it's a brand new product which means its reliability is yet to be proven. You could also check out the Citroen Basalt X 1.2 Turbo AT, which is excellent value for money, but its dealer network is even smaller than Skoda's, so that needs to be borne in mind.

VehicleSkoda Kushaq
VehicleRenault Duster
VehicleCitroen Basalt
VehicleMaruti Suzuki Fronx
SG

Siontan Ghosh

3d

I am planning to buy an SUV that is safe, has good driving dynamics, is comfortable, and economical in terms of maintenance. My driving will be 70% city and 30% highway, with a monthly running of less than 500 km. I am confused between the Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq, and Volkswagen Taigun. I am very interested in German cars but would like your suggestion.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
1d

With a majority of city use, short monthly running, clear focus on safety, driving dynamics and comfort, we will suggest the Volkswagen Taigun 1.0 TSI automatic or equivalent Skoda Kushaq. You will like it for three reasons. First, it feels sure-footed and is a pleasure to drive. Second, the 1.0 turbo petrol is smooth and quick enough for gaps in city traffic, and the automatic here is a regular torque-converter unit, which means gears changes are very smooth. It also handles slow, stop-start roads without fuss. Third, safety is strong - the Taigun and Kushaq have a 5-star crash test rating and are well equipped with safety features. A couple of trade-offs to note. The back seat is not very wide, so three adults will be snug. And the ride at very low speeds, can feel a bit firm over sharp bumps. Service costs are a bit higher than Honda car, but VW now offers long warranty and service packs that keep bills predictable, so do ask your dealer about it.

VehicleSkoda Kushaq
VehicleVolkswagen Taigun

Posted on: 9 Oct 2025