Launch of the Skoda Kushaq Facelift in January 2026
The redesigned Skoda Kushaq is scheduled to go on sale in January 2026, with modifications made to its exterior, interior, and technology.
Information about potential new gearboxes, powertrain continuity, and how the upgraded Kushaq would compare to competitors.
The redesigned Kushaq is probably going to make its debut with some minor but significant style adjustments. Spy photos taken in the middle of 2025 show somewhat updated headlights and potentially bigger fog-lamp units. Slimmer vertical slats are anticipated for the iconic front grille, and its upper half might have a connected DRL (daytime running light) system, similar to the larger Skoda vehicles.
There are more developments to come. Test mules with new matte-black alloy wheels (probably 17-inch) were observed; the front and rear bumpers appear to have been redesigned, but the overall appearance is almost the same.
In order to give the SUV a more contemporary appearance, the rear taillights could be made thinner and connected by a full-width LED strip in place of the previous "SKODA" inscription.
The redesigned Kushaq is anticipated to have much improved comfort and technological elements inside the cabin. A digital driver's display, an updated infotainment screen, and potentially a surround-view (360-degree) camera system are also mentioned. A panoramic sunroof, which represents a significant improvement over the current model's more straightforward roof configuration, is also being discussed.
Other than that, the SUV might still have wireless charging, ambient lighting, ventilated front seats, and other standard comfort amenities. Additionally, there are rumors of an advanced safety suite that is optional and includes Level-2 ADAS functions; however, this has not been formally confirmed for all variants.
Mechanically, the conventional turbo-petrol engines, a 1.0-liter TSI three-cylinder and a 1.5-liter TSI four-cylinder unit, will probably remain in the redesigned Kushaq. Currently, the 1.5-liter is equipped with a 7-speed DSG automatic; the 1.0-liter is available with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.
However, a new 8-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox (from AISIN) is reportedly being developed for the 1.0-liter engine with the goal of enhancing fuel economy and assisting with adherence to future pollution regulations. However, this gearbox is probably going to be offered later in 2026 rather than at the facelift introduction.
Skoda hopes to maintain the Kushaq's relevance in the very competitive mid-size SUV market with this makeover. It will continue to battle with competitors like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and others until it is updated.
While keeping tried-and-true engines, the facelift offers prospective purchasers more contemporary style, more comfort, and technology, particularly in higher trims. The Kushaq's actual fuel efficiency may increase if Skoda installs the 8-speed transmission shortly after introduction. Conversely, consumers will have to balance the higher expense against the value increase due to the anticipated price increase (given the new features).
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