2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift Review: Stunning Looks, What Else?

When Skoda gives a mid-cycle update to one of its most important models after five years, it has to get it right. So, the Kushaq facelift definitely deserves a close look.

The biggest news on this updated compact SUV is the new 8-speed automatic gearbox paired with the 1.0-litre TSI engine. Available right from the base variant, this combination shows Skoda is pushing this new gearbox option hard. Does it live up to the hype?

Skoda Kushaq Facelift: Performance

Well, on the road, the 1.0 TSI with the 8-speed automatic feels aggressive from a standstill. It lunges forward noticeably in stop-start traffic, which might take some getting used to and could feel uncomfortable for some drivers.

Once in its sweet spot, though, this tiny three-cylinder engine delivers strong performance. The main difference from the larger 1.5 TSI at low speeds is more noticeable turbo lag. The turbo spools up around 1800-1900 RPM, and from there it becomes pretty explosive. The torque delivery feels almost like a turbo diesel at times, which is impressive for a small petrol engine. 

1.0-litre TSI specs

Displacement: 999 cc  

Max power: 113.8 bhp @ 5000 rpm  

Peak torque: 178 Nm @ 1750 rpm  

Transmission: 8-speed automatic / 6-speed manual  

However, the 8-speed gearbox is tuned for relaxed driving, with somewhat lazy shifts. It often requires pressing the accelerator fully to kick down, which can delay response by a second or two during spirited driving.

Paddle shifters offer a quick fix, as the response is instant for downshifts and upshifts. If you keep the engine above 2000 RPM and use the paddles, this becomes a fun, sporting setup. For everyday cruising, leave it in auto and it shifts smoothly.

Refinement is decent by three-cylinder standards. You hear the engine under hard revving, which is expected, but it is not intrusive for most drivers. Hyundai's 1.0-litre three-cylinder feels slightly more refined, though many owners may not notice the difference.

Do you really need eight gears with this engine? At high highway speeds, the extra ratios help prevent the engine from straining. For serious highway use, though, the 1.5 TSI remains the better choice.

Fuel economy sees a small improvement: the 1.0-litre ARAI figure is now 19.09 kmpl (up from 18.09 kmpl), while the 1.5-litre stays unchanged.

1.5-litre TSI specs

Displacement: 1498 cc  

Max power: 148 bhp @ 5000 rpm  

Peak torque: 250 Nm @ 1600 rpm  

Transmission: 7-speed DSG  

The 1.5 TSI is unchanged in power and torque, and it retains the 7-speed DSG. The key upgrade here is rear disc brakes, now standard on the 1.5-litre variants. Surprisingly, the 1.0-litre models miss out on this, even as rivals like the new Kia Seltos offer rear discs across the range.

Performance remains excellent, especially at highway speeds. This engine shines when you are covering long distances quickly.

Also READ: 2026 Volkswagen Tayron R-Line India Review: When Class Meets Performance

Skoda Kushaq Facelift: Ride & Handling

Skoda has long excelled at ride and handling. The Kushaq facelift keeps that strength: handling is sharp with good body control, though the light steering lacks much feedback and takes away some fun. Ride quality absorbs bumps and potholes well, but there is a touch of firmness that comes with the composed dynamics.

Skoda Kushaq Facelift: Interior & Features

Inside, changes are subtle but noticeable. New colour schemes stand out: beige or black/beige depending on the variant. Higher variants get a 10.2-inch digital driver's display (up from 8-inch on lower trims), which feels more premium. The 10-inch infotainment screen runs updated software, though AC controls remain capacitive.

It’s worth noting that the reverse camera quality on the Kushaq facelift feels outdated for a 2026 model, and a 360-degree camera is not offered on any variant.

Rear seat massaging function is an unexpected addition on higher trims. It works reasonably well for relaxation after a long day, but it is unlikely to see daily use.

Interior plastics are solid, though they feel like a step down from older Skoda models like the Rapid. In the compact SUV segment overall, it is not at the top for material quality.

During my testing, the air conditioning performed well during testing in 32°C conditions in Jaipur. Performance in extreme heat above 40°C remains to be seen.

Skoda Kushaq Facelift: Design

Finally, the refreshed exterior design works well. It resembles the bigger Kodiaq with its larger, neatly integrated grille, striking new DRLs, and a modern illuminated grille look. The rear features connected tail-lamps with a stylish broken LED pattern and an illuminated Skoda wordmark in the centre. Alloys are available on every single variant, including the base Classic+, which is a nice touch. Also, every variant gets a different wheel design.

Skoda Kushaq Facelift: Verdict

Skoda seems keen to attract buyers to lower and mid variants, because niceties like sunroof, LED lights, and alloy wheels are standard on all variants. However, aggressive pricing will be crucial.

The compact SUV segment has become intensely competitive since the original Kushaq launched in 2021. Maruti Suzuki offers two options, the Tata Sierra is back, and the new generations of the Renault Duster and Kia Seltos have also arrived. 

The outgoing Kushaq sold roughly between ₹10.5-18.5 lakh. With rivals like the Duster arriving at aggressive prices, Skoda needs to position the Kushaq facelift carefully to stay competitive.