Skoda Kushaq production starts ahead of July launch
The Skoda Kushaq is set to launch in India later this month, with deliveries beginning early July. In preparation for this, Skoda-Volkswagen India has begun production of the new C-SUV at its plant in Pune. The Kushaq is being built on a new production line, to accommodate the 95 per cent localization that Skoda-VW has achieved for the MQB-A0-IN platform. Much of the development work was also done on-site, unlike the brand's previous products, at a new tech centre commissioned in 2019. Following the Kushaq later this year will be a new sedan positioned between the Rapid and Octavia. This will also be built around the MQB-A0-IN architecture and is expected to be named the Skoda Slavia.
Skoda Kushaq engines
The Skoda Kushaq was revealed in production form in March 2021 and is developed on the heavily indigenized MQB-A0-IN architecture. The SUV will be available in two engine and three gearbox options. These are the 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with 110PS and 175 Nm, which should be offered in the low to mid-spec versions of this new SUV. With a six-speed manual, the six-speed torque converter from the Rapid will also be available. Also, the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol that makes 150PS/250 Nm and pairs with a seven-speed DCT will be offered on higher trims. The larger engine will get a six-speed manual as well. Read our review of the pre-production prototype of the Skoda Kushaq here.
Skoda Kushaq features
Notable features are matrix LED exterior lighting, a new 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto/Apple Carplay, type-C USB charging, connected-car features, a single-pane sunroof, climate control, ventilated front seats, up to 17-inch alloy wheels and large amounts of interior storage. Safety features are appealing with the Kushaq being one of the first mainstream cars to offer ESC as standard. Other than this, there are six airbags, TPMS, hill-hold function, rear parking camera, front parking sensors and ISOFIX child seat mounts.
Skoda Kushaq expected price, rivals
When launched, the Skoda Kusahq will compete most closely with the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Harrier and MG Hector. Prices are expected to range between Rs 10 to 16 lakh, ex-showroom.