After introducing the new generation Octavia, Skoda is now preparing to launch the much-awaited Kushaq mid-sized SUV. The prices of the new Kushaq will be released in the end of June 2021, while deliveries are being promised from July 2021. In fact, mass production of the Skoda Kushaq has already been commenced at the Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Pvt Ltd (SAVWIPL) plant in Chakan, Pune.
The Skoda Kushaq is one of the most important product for the Volkswagen Group in India. It is the first product under the VW Group’s new India 2.0 Project, and will mark the debut of highly localised MQB AO IN platform. Skoda claims to have achieved over 95% localisation levels, hinting at an aggressive pricing. The new Kushaq is expected to be priced in the range of Rs 9.5 lakh and Rs 16 lakh.
The Skoda Kushaq will rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and the upcoming MG Astor (ZS Petrol SUV). It will be offered with two petrol engines – a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol and a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged. While the former is good for 113bhp and 175Nm of torque, the 1.5L engine produces 147bhp and 250Nm of torque. Transmission choices will include a 6-speed MT, a 6-speed AT (1.0L Petrol) and a 7-speed DSG (1.5L Petrol).
The mid-sized SUV was first previewed as the Vision IN concept at the 2020 Auto Expo. The new SUV will come equipped with several advanced comfort and convenience features along with modern-day connectivity features. The SUV will also debut the brand’s new infotainment system in India. It will get the Volkswagen Play infotainment system, which was first introduced on the VW Nivus Coupe-SUV in Brazil.
Developed jointly by VW Brazil and automotive component maker Visteon, the new infotainment system has a 10.1-inch touchscreen with split-screen setup that doubles as a rear-view camera monitor. The system will be compatible with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Adding to it, the infotainment system also has live-streaming of music and audio podcasts via SIM-based internet access along with in-car Wi-Fi.
In terms of proportions, the new Kushaq is 4,221mm long, 1,760mm wide and 1,612mm tall, and has a wheelbase of 2,651mm. It offers a boot space of 385-litres, which can be extended by folding the second row of seats. The new Skoda Kushaq will be offered in 5 exterior colour options – Honey Orange, Tornado Red, Brilliant Silver, Carbon Steel and Candy White. The SUV will be offered in 3 trim levels – Active, Ambition and Style.
Key features include LED headlamps, LED tail-lamps, a roof-mounted spoiler, 17-inch alloys, auto-dimming IRVMs, ventilated front seats, keyless entry, wireless charging, electrically foldable & adjustable ORVMs with integrated LED blinkers,, electric sunroof, etc.
