Skoda India could launch the much-awaited Kushaq facelift towards the second half of January 2026. First introduced in 2021, Skoda’s answer to the likes of the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos midsize SUVs was due for a comprehensive refresh this year, as we reported in 2024. Apart from cosmetic tweaks, the facelifted Kushaq will get some feature upgrades and a new automatic gearbox.
- 2026 Kushaq may get a panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera setup
- Level 2 ADAS suite to be added
- Kushaq 1.0 TSI could get an 8AT unit sometime later next year
Skoda Kushaq facelift exterior design
Redesigned headlights, air dam and alloy wheels
Based on the new Kushaq test mules spotted in June and November, the upcoming SUV may get subtly revised headlights and possibly larger fog lamp units. The moustache-like grille at the front could have slightly slimmer vertical slats, and its upper section may receive a connected DRL (daytime running lamps) setup, similar to that of the new Skoda Kodiaq. The air dam below might have a more squared-off pattern than the current car.
While no apparent differences were spotted in profile, the test vehicles had a new set of matte-black-painted alloy wheels, likely 17-inch; parts such as roof rails, shark fin-like antenna, pull-type door handles, and cladding under the doors and over the wheel arches may be carried over. At the rear, the tail-lights could be slimmer and may even be bridged by an LED bar, instead of the ‘SKODA’ brand lettering in the middle. Heavy camouflaging on the bumper may also hint at some updates.
Skoda Kushaq facelift interior and features
Panoramic sunroof, Level 2 ADAS
Details about the 2026 Skoda SUV’s interior are unclear right now, but as is usually the case with facelifts, new trim pieces and colour options are anticipated, along with a longer list of features. One of these is a panoramic sunroof, which a recent test mule featured.
Talking about safety tech, Level 2 ADAS is confirmed. “Regarding ADAS 2.0, we will bring [this tech] step-by-step with the facelifts on the whole [MQB A0-IN] platform,” former Skoda brand director Petr Janeba had said earlier. The MQB A0-IN platform also underpins the Kushaq. For reference, most segment competitors already offer an ADAS suite; among them are the new Tata Sierra, Maruti Suzuki Victoris, Honda Elevate, MG Astor, and others. A 360-degree camera could also be added.
Skoda Kushaq facelift engine and gearbox options
115hp 1.0 TSI, 150hp 1.5 TSI engines to be carried over
The direct injection engine duo of 115hp, 178Nm 1-litre turbo-petrol (6-speed manual/ 6-speed torque converter automatic) and 150hp, 250Nm 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (7-speed dual-clutch automatic) are most likely to be on offer with the facelift, at least initially. Skoda is planning to phase out the 1.0 TSI’s 6AT unit (AQ 250) and introduce a localised 8AT (AQ 300) sometime later next year.
The 8-speed transmission should boost fuel efficiency due to closer-ratio steps between gears, causing smoother transitions and less fuel wastage during both acceleration and deceleration. This will also help Skoda meet the stricter CAFE 3 norms coming up.
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Viraaj Bhatnagar
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