The upcoming Kushaq mid-size SUV will be Skoda’s answer to Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. The carmaker recently revealed engine specifications and official prototype pictures of the vehicle. Its production-ready version is likely to hit showrooms in the month of March. Based on the Vision IN concept that broke cover at the 2020 Auto Expo, the new Skoda Kushaq will be the brand’s first model to be built on MQB A0 IN platform.
Speaking to Autocar, Gurpratap Boparai, managing director, Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, has revealed that the company has selected the longest wheelbase available on the MQB A0 IN architecture. While the official dimensions of the Kushaq are yet to be revealed, it’s reported to have a 2,651mm of wheelbase.
With 41mm longer wheelbase than the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, the new Skoda SUV will have more cabin space to offer than both of its rivals. The wheelbase of the Creta and Seltos stands at 2,610mm. However, the Renault Duster and Nissan Kicks from the same segment sit on a 2,673mm longer wheelbase. Read – 2021 Skoda Rapid Rider Is Now On Sale
Besides the India-specific platform, the Skoda Kushaq has several components and materials that suite to Indian climate conditions. The SUV will be made available with 2 petrol engines – 1.0L, 3-cylinder turbo and 1.5L, 4-cylinder turbo. Official power and torque figures of motors are yet to be revealed.
While the smaller capacity gasoline unit is likely to deliver power close to 120bhp with 200Nm of torque, the 1.5L turbo motor will offer 147bhp with 250Nm. Featuring cylinder-deactivation technology, both powertrains are claimed to be high on fuel efficiency and offer a “strong performance”.
The Skoda Kushaq will initially be introduced with 93% localization that will be further increases to 95% in near future. The carmaker has confirmed that its new mid-size will be priced competitively, but slightly premium than its rivals. At present, the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos come in the price range of Rs 9.15 lakh – Rs 15.72 lakh and Rs 6.79 lakh – Rs 13.19 lakh respectively (all, ex-showroom).
