The long-awaited Skoda Kushaq SUV will finally make its global debut in India today. The Creta-rivalling SUV was first showcased as a VISION IN concept at the 2020 Auto Expo. It will be the brand’s first made-in-India SUV, which will also mark the debut of Volkswagen Group’s heavily localised MQB AO IN platform.
Skoda claims that the new Kushaq SUV will have close to 95% local components, which suggests that the SUV could be priced competitively. The company has already released the design and interior sketches of the new Kushaq. In terms of styling, the SUV looks largely identical to the concept model.
The Skoda Kushaq comes with a wide signature grille, flanked a sharply designed two-part projector headlamps. The SUV gets angular bumper design, featuring large air intakes and rugged skid plate. The Kushaq features a roof-integrated spoiler, and a rugged rear diffuser in the bumper. There is a signature crystalline structures for the tail-lamps, while SKODA lettering will be added on the tailgate. The SUV features 17-inch alloys wheels, body plastic cladding, ORVMs with integrated blinkers and roof rails.
The Skoda Kushaq will measure around 4.25 meters in length and will ride on segment-largest 2,651mm of wheelbase. It is claimed to offer segment-leading cabin space and boot space. It will rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and the Nissan Kicks.
The Kushaq’s interior sketches reveal the premium dual-tone white and black colour scheme with prominent use of orange highlights. The orange highlights are visible on the dashboard, door handles, around gearbox and switchgear and on the lower central console. The SUV will be equipped with a large touchscreen infotainment system Android Auto and Apple CarPlay along with inbuilt navigation. Other features will include connected car tech, sunroof, wireless charging system, rear AC vents, automatic climate control, ventilated front seats, electrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs, and alloy wheels.
The new Skoda Kushaq will come with 2 engine options – a 110bhp, 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol and a 147bhp, 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol. Transmission choices will include a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed torque convertor automatic (1.0L) and a 7-speed DSG (1.5L Only).
