Skoda has officially released the first teaser for the Kushaq facelift, confirming that the popular midsize SUV is gearing up for a mid-cycle refresh scheduled for January 2026. The teaser shows the SUV’s front end covered, but key details about the update have already begun to surface.

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The original Kushaq, launched in 2021, competes in India’s highly contested compact SUV segment against rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Maruti Suzuki Victoris, Honda Elevate and Tata Sierra. The facelift aims to keep the model competitive by offering fresh design elements, improved technology and upgraded features.

Exterior Design Updates

Spy images of test mules indicate that the facelift will focus primarily on front and rear updates. The changes are expected to be evolutionary rather than revolutionary, including:

• Revised headlamps with updated LED graphics.
• A larger grille with slimmer DRLs integrated into its design.
• Slimmer, connected tail-lamps at the rear.
• 17-inch alloy wheels likely finished in a matte-black shade.

These tweaked design elements are aimed at giving the Kushaq a more contemporary and assertive look while retaining its core identity.

Compare it with Old Kushaq

Interior and Feature Enhancements

Although the full cabin hasn’t been revealed, the facelifted Kushaq is expected to come with a significantly enhanced equipment list:

• A panoramic sunroof on higher trims, a feature becoming common in competitors.
• A segment-first rear-seat massage function for added comfort.
• Updated graphics for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen.
• Rear disc brakes on higher-powered variants.
• Improvements to the air-conditioning system for better cooling performance.

These upgrades are geared toward elevating both comfort and convenience, particularly for buyers in the premium SUV bracket.

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ADAS and Safety Upgrades

A significant highlight of the Kushaq facelift is the likely introduction of a Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) suite. Skoda has indicated that ADAS technology will be rolled out across models built on its MQB-A0-IN platform, starting with facelifts like the Kushaq.

Additionally, a 360-degree camera is expected, enhancing safety and ease of parking in urban environments. These features will bring the Kushaq closer to segment rivals that already offer such tech.

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Powertrain and Gearbox Details

Mechanically, the facelifted Kushaq is expected to retain the existing powertrain options:

• A 1.0-litre turbo-petrol producing around 115 hp and 178 Nm.
• A 1.5-litre turbo-petrol rated at about 150 hp and 250 Nm.

At launch, the SUV will likely continue with the current gearbox options — a 6-speed manual, 6-speed torque converter automatic for the smaller engine, and a 7-speed DSG on the larger unit.

However, Skoda is expected to introduce a new 8-speed torque converter automatic for the 1.0-litre engine later in 2026. This new gearbox should offer smoother shifts and improved fuel efficiency, helping the brand meet stricter regulatory norms.

What This Means for Buyers

The Skoda Kushaq facelift represents a meaningful update that keeps the SUV in touch with evolving customer expectations — especially in terms of technology, comfort, and safety. With competitors rapidly upgrading their offerings, the refreshed Kushaq is poised to remain a strong contender in the segment.