Skoda Kushaq mid-size SUV is ready to hit Indian roads next month. It will be positioned against the cars like Kia Seltos and Hyundai Creta. The carmaker has already revealed its prototype’s pictures and confirmed that the SUV will come with two turbocharged petrol engines.
There will be a 1.0L, 3-cylinder TSI and a 1.5L, 4-cylinder TSI motors pushing out power close to 120bhp with 200Nm and 147bhp with 250Nm respectively. The smaller capacity engine will come with 6-speed manual and torque converter automatic gearbox options, while 1.5L turbo unit will be available with a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission.
Based on the MQB A0 IN platform, the upcoming Skoda Kushaq will offer a 7.0-inch head unit display, 4-speakers audio system and a multi functional steering wheel as standard fitments. It might also get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, ventilated seats, a cooled glove box and a sunroof. The higher trim will offer a 10-inch head unit, audio system with a subwoofer (placed in the boot), a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, connected car technology and dual zone climate control.
In terms of safety, the SUV will provide 6 airbags protection along with a tyre pressure monitoring system, hill hold control, electronic stability program, Isofix tethers for rear seats, rain and light sensing wipers and more. The new Skoda SUV will sit on a 2651mm long wheelbase that will make it more spacious than the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. The latter two have a wheelbase of 2610mm.
The Skoda Kushaq is the production version of the Vision IN concept that was previewed at the 2020 Auto Expo. The final model is likely to retain most of its design bits from the concept. The latter features the signature chrome-embellished grille, split projector headlamps with LED DRLs, angular bumper, plastic cladding all around the body and L-shaped LED taillamps with horizontal reflectors.
