While the Hyundai Creta has been the reigning sales champ of the fiercely competitive mid-size SUV segment, the mid-lifecycle facelift for the Skoda Kushaq is here to try to challenge its supremacy. We compare the two SUVs in terms of specifications to find out if the updated Kushaq has a shot.

Skoda Kushaq vs Hyundai Creta: dimensions

Creta is larger overall, but Kushaq has longer wheelbase and larger boot.

*Pre-facelift Kushaq dimensions, except for boot space

Although Skoda has yet to reveal some figures for the Kushaq facelift, the SUV is likely to have similar dimensions as its predecessor. Other than a 55 litre and 41mm advantage in boot space and wheelbase (which bodes well for interior space), respectively, the Kushaq is overall smaller than the Creta. However, both SUVs offer 17-inch alloy wheels on their respective top-spec variants.

2026 Skoda Kushaq vs Hyundai Creta: engine specifications

Kushaq 1.0 more powerful than Creta NA petrol while Creta turbo more powerful than Kushaq 1.5.

Although both SUVs get two petrol engine options, the Kushaq gets two turbocharged units while the Creta gets a naturally aspirated one and a turbocharged unit. When comparing the Kushaq 1.0 to the naturally aspirated Creta, the Skoda has 34Nm more, and it gets an 8-speed torque convertor automatic compared to the Hyundai’s CVT.

While the Kushaq and Creta have a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine option as well, the Hyundai’s is the more powerful of the two by 10hp and 3Nm. While both engines are paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, the Creta also has a 6-speed manual option.

Hyundai Creta has a diesel engine option

It should be noted that the Creta comes with a 1.5-litre diesel engine option as well, an option that is not available with the Kushaq. Hyundai’s ubiquitous 116hp, 250Nm diesel unit is offered with 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox options, and these variants are said to contribute around 44 percent to the Creta’s total sales.

In terms of specifications then, the Kushaq does seem to have a fighting chance of grabbing some of the Creta’s market share. The winner will become clearer once 2026 Skoda Kushaq prices are revealed. For reference, the Creta is currently priced between Rs 10.79 lakh-18.97 lakh for the NA petrol, between Rs 19.49-20.10 lakh for the turbo-petrol variants (including the N Line), and between Rs 12.40 lakh-20.20 lakh for the diesel.

All prices are ex-showroom, India