Skoda Kushaq : The Skoda Kushaq has its work cut out in the highly popular compact-SUV segment – of that there is no shred of a doubt.
It’s not a statement of flash or ruggedness — it’s a blend of sharp styling and high quality, and European driving manners adapted for our roads.
A part of the VW Group s India 2.0 strategy, the Kushaq was Skoda s take on rivals such as the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. And, to be honest, it has more than held its own.
So, what’s the Kushaq’s deal then? Is it short on substance and long on style? Or does it have the muscle behind to match the flash?
Design: Subtle but Effective
From the moment you lay eyes on it, the Kushaq has presence — not the in-your-face, look-at-me attitude. It’s sharp, sophisticated and unapologetically European.
The signature butterfly grille, sharp LED headlamps, strong character lines and squared-off wheel arches lend it a purposeful stance. It compact, yes — but still grown-up.
A car with such small overhangs and upright stance can take the rough of Indian roads effortlessly. And while it doesn’t take the crown for the tallest SUV in segment, it’s handsome and well-proportioned.
Cabin: Quality Vibes From Floor to Ceiling
Slide into the Kushaq, and there’s a palpable sense of premium right away, in the cabin. The dashboard design is contemporary with its trickled surfaces and a unique two-spoke steering wheel.
The 10-inch central touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and virtual cockpit (on top trims) also contribute to the upmarket feel.
The materials feel robust in the cabin, as is the case with most Skodas, and the car also packs in little touches like ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and a sunroof.
Space-wise, there is plenty of room for four adults to sit comfortably, however the middle rear seat is best left for kids or short journeys.
Its Performance: A Driver’s Joy
The thing the Kushaq did the best was drive. Skoda is on offer two petrols — a 1.0L TSI and a 1.5L TSI. The former is sprightly enough for the city, with the latter where the serious fun kicks in.
Powered by 150 PS and 250 Nm, the 1.5L is slick, willing and truly fun, and made even more so when matched to the 7-speed DSG.
And now handling is another one. The Kushaq is rock solid at high speeds, its steering is well weighted, and it corners confidently. It’s not an off-roader, but it takes on potholes, speed breakers and bumpy roads better than quite a few in its class.
Ride Quality and Safety
Comfort and firmness combine in the ride. You feel planted on highways and stable over potholes, but without the floaty feel some softer SUVs lend.
Kushaq has also emerged as a big win in the safety department. 6 airbags (albeit in top trims), ESP, multi-collision brake, hill hold control, and TPMS, the SUV isn’t stingy when it comes to must haves.
It also came away with a 5-star rating in the Global NCAP crash tests, a massive thumbs-up for Indian buyers worried about safety.
Pros
Showy, Solid European Design If you love the feel of the road when you drive, there is no better way to get that feeling with the top up or down than a convertible.
TSI engines are punchy and sophisticated
Excellent driving dynamics
Luxurious and well-appointed interior
5-star safety rating by Global NCAP
Cons
No diesel engine option
Three adults would be a squeeze in rear seat
Despite being an SUV, there is not a lot of boot space (385L)
Few features as compared to the one with the panoramic sunroof absent.
1.5L with DSG is expensive
Skoda Kushaq: Final Verdict
The Skoda Kushaq, isn’t just-another compact SUV — it’s for folks that enjoy driving, have a thing for well-built cars and prefer their daily driver to be a more upmarket, less gimmicky package.
It’s not a car that screams for attention, but demands respect the minute you get behind the wheel.
OK, it’s not the biggest or most feature-heavy SUV on the market. But if you value the way a car feels on the road — and there’s a bit of class in your classifieds choices beyond the usual round of crowd-pleasers — the Kushaq demands a serious look.
It’s European engineering, designed for Indian roads — and made right.