Skoda Kushaq facelift Expert Review

The Kushaq continues with the 115hp 1.0 TSI and 150hp 1.5 TSI petrol engines. The big change is the
new 8-speed torque converter on the 1.0, replacing the earlier 6-speed. It remains smooth and
seamless in its shifts and reduces the old car’s tendency to lurch forward. Manual inputs feel
impressively quick, almost DSG-like, and it holds revs high, making it engaging. Our 0-100kph run of
11.57s is much quicker than before.
Ratios feel short and cruising revs are higher than ideal. Refinement remains average, especially past
2500rpm. The 1.5 litre remains stronger, smoother and more effortless, though insulation could be
better here too.

Efficiency has improved across the range. The 1.0 litre 8-speed automatic now claims 19.09kpl versus 15.78kpl earlier. The 1.5 DSG improves to 18.72kpl from 17.71kpl, and the 1.0 manual rises to 19.66kpl. Interestingly, the 1.0 AT is now more efficient than the 1.5 DSG.
On our drive, the 1.0 automatic showed an MID-indicated 11.7kpl over a mixed cycle. For reference, the previous 6-speed AT returned 10.45kpl in our standard test.
 

Ride remains typically European — firm at low speeds with a sharp edge over broken roads. You also hear the suspension at work, adding to the firm impression. As speeds rise, pliancy improves and it becomes more comfortable, with the 1.5 feeling slightly better.
Body control is good, roll is well contained and grip levels are strong. The steering is light and could use more weight at speed. The 1.5 now gets rear disc brakes and braking feels strong and confident.
Overall, it remains stable and enjoyable, even if low-speed comfort isn’t its strongest suit.
 

The update addresses several equipment gaps. A panoramic sunroof is offered on top variants, others get a single pane unit. Alloy wheels, auto HVAC, rain-sensing wipers, rear wash-wipe and auto-dimming IRVM are standard. A new 10.24-inch digital cluster adds freshness.
Rear seat massagers are unique to the segment, though offering them only at the rear feels odd. The Google-powered assistant requires phone data and disables Android Auto. Missing features include a 360-degree camera and ADAS.
Safety includes six airbags and ESP as standard, and Skoda says it is engineered for a 5-star rating.
 

AC performance is noticeably improved thanks to a new variable displacement compressor. Front seat ventilation works well.
Space remains unchanged — rear room is sufficient but doesn’t feel as generous as some newer rivals. The panoramic sunroof adds airiness. Seats are comfortable with the right firmness, even over a full day’s drive.
Rear massagers cover the lower and mid-back but offer only an on/off function and feel gentle. Storage is practical with a large glovebox and good door pockets. Boot space remains 385 litres and is well shaped.
 

The Kushaq continues on the MQB-AO-IN platform, with major sheet metal unchanged. However, the facelift looks dramatic. Up front, there’s a new bumper, slimmer fog lamps and a wider grille with a segmented DRL running through it. The headlights get a new eyebrow-style DRL.
The side profile is largely unchanged apart from new alloy wheel designs.
At the rear, a new bumper and connected taillights with segmented lighting and illuminated Skoda lettering give it a distinctive look.
It’s striking without being over the top.

Skoda has worked hard on this update, improving design, features and technical aspects. Expect prices to start around Rs. 11 lakh for the 1.0 manual and about Rs. 12 lakh for the 8-speed auto, with the 1.5 near Rs. 19 lakh (ex-showroom).
Shortcomings remain — NVH levels are high and features like a 360-degree camera, branded audio and ADAS are missing.
That said, it delivers the basics well along with a few goodies too. The 1.5 offers strong, effortless performance, while the 1.0 litre 8-speed feels smooth and adequately quick. Stable handling ensures it remains engaging and all in all the update keeps the Kushaq fighting fit.