The 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift is a significant model change for the midsize SUV, from the new 8-speed automatic gearbox option for the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine to the design updates and feature upgrades. Among the many changes, Skoda India also says that the AC unit has been upgraded to fix one of the pre-facelift model’s biggest gripes.
- 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift gets a variable-geometry compressor
- Updated AC unit likely to be seen on other Skoda-VW India 2.0 cars
2026 Skoda Kushaq AC system explained
Fixed-geometry compressor has been replaced with a variable-geometry compressor.
Our Kushaq reviews and our mega AC comparison test noted this SUV’s air-conditioning system doesn’t cool the cabin well enough; it’s an issue that is common across the Skoda-VW India 2.0 models. This was down to the fact that the brands had used a cheaper fixed-geometry compressor to save costs. It seems like Skoda Auto India has installed a new variable-geometry compressor for the updated Kushaq, which costs just about Rs 2,000 more than the outgoing unit. In addition, the Kushaq facelift also features optimised air con piping for better gas flow.
Variable-geometry compressor expected to be used on Slavia, Taigun and Virtus facelifts.
This year is also expected to see the launch of mid-lifecycle facelifts for the other three India 2.0 cars – namely the Slavia and Virtus sedans and the Taigun SUV. Along with the cosmetic changes, feature additions and the new 8-speed automatic gearbox option, the upgraded AC system is also expected to be seen on the refreshed models.
With inputs from Rivan RS
Uday Singh
Rivan RS 
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Dipan Sur
Suraj Viswanathan
