Skoda launches the Kushaq in India at Rs 10.49 lakh, ex-showroom (starting price). The name Kushaq is derived from the Sanskrit word meaning ‘King’ or ‘Emperor’. The SUV is available in three variants and two engine options.
Bookings for the Kushaq are open and can be made online or at dealerships across India. Deliveries of the 1.0-litre TSI variants will begin early next month, while deliveries of the 1.5-litre TSI variants will begin only by August. The Kushaq is the first model launching under the brand’s India 2.0 programme. The upcoming SUV will use a tweaked version of the brand’s global MQB platform. Called the ‘MQB A0 IN’ features a longer wheelbase to suit the Indian market.
Colour Options: Candy White, Brilliant Silver, Honey Orange, Carbon Steel and Tornado Red.
The Kushaq features a bold stance with abundant use of chrome to give the SUV a premium look and feel from the outside. The all-around body cladding enhances the SUV looks of the Kushaq. Other features include Skoda’s butterfly grille, LED headlamps, LED taillamps, 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, Roof rails, Faux skid plates and Integrated roof spoiler.The Kushaq features a bold stance with abundant use of chrome to give the SUV a premium look and feel from the outside. The all-around body cladding enhances the SUV looks of the Kushaq. Other features include Skoda’s butterfly grille, LED headlamps, LED taillamps, 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, Roof rails, Faux skid plates and Integrated roof spoiler.
The cabin of the Kushaq is well-laid out with a host of features. The dashboard features a multi-layer design with piano-black inserts. The Kushaq borrows the same 2-spoke steering design as seen on the Octavia. Other features include 10.1-inch infotainment screen, Semi-digital instrument cluster with MID, Steering mounted controls, Ventilated seats, Climate control, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, Wireless charger, Rear AC vents, Electric sunroof, 6-Speaker Skoda audio system, Manually-adjustable driver seat and mySKODA Connect mobile application.
The SUV is offered with two turbo-petrol engine options. The 1.0-litre TSI engine is paired to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque-converter automatic. While the 1.5-litre TSI engine features either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG automatic.
1.0-litre three-cylinder TSI turbo-petrol Max power: 108bhp @ 5,500rpm Peak torque: 175Nm @ 1,750rpm and 1.5-litre four-cylinder TSI turbo-petrol Max power: 148bhp @ 6,000rpm Peak torque: 250Nm @ 3,500rpm.
Skoda has not compromised on the safety features of the Kushaq as all variants receive dual-airbags, ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) as standard. Other features: 6 airbags, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Multi Collision Braking, Electronic differential lock, Traction control and Rear parking camera. When it comes to the warranty, the Kushaq is offered the same 4-year service that is offered on other Skoda models. This includes: 4-year / 100,000kms warranty, 4-year maintenance package and 4-year RSA.
Skoda finally enters the mid-size SUV segment in India by launching the Kushaq. The SUV features an appealing exterior design with pleasant interiors and uncompromised safety. The Kushaq rivals the likes of Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Jeep Compass, Nissan Kicks, Renault Duster in the Indian market.
