Škoda Kushaq: There is a new car on the scene in Indian automotive universe and it comes in the form of the highly anticipated Škoda Kushaq.
This mid-size SUV is a landmark offering for the Czech carmaker as it continues to make its presence stronger in one of the most hotly-contested automobile segments globally with its India 2.0 plan.
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Škoda Kushaq The design philosophy that makes heads turn
The Kushaq embodies the Škoda design language with clear-cut, sharp lines and bold contours resulting in a strong road presence.
The front end of the car is dominated by the signature butterfly grille, accompanied by stylish LED headlamps with crystalline elements inspired by Czech crystal artisanry.
From the side profile, the defined hood ridges run smoothly and give the car a muscular appearance which is further enhanced by the sharp wheel arches housing elegant alloy wheels.
At the rear, the Kushaq retains its signature design theme with C-shaped LED taillamps, a roof spoiler and silver skid plate inserts adding to its sporty appeal.
The increase in height isn’t just for the SUV look but goes a long way towards making it more practical for the not-so-good roads we experience in many parts of India.
Time and Room to Spare
Škoda Kushaq Breathe inside the Kushaq, and you’ll be met by a well-designed cabin that’s way different from what you’d expect looking at the dimensions it comes in.
By clever packaging Škoda has managed to maximise the interior space and there is plenty of head, leg and should room for both the front and back occupants.
The two-tone dash features soft-touch materials and signature angular design that adds upscale character.
The ergonomically shaped seats are also very comfortable for longer trips, and the rear bench has headrests that can be adjusted as well as a center armrest.
Meanwhile, the 385-litre boot grows dramatically with the rear seats folded down, enjoying versatility for all loading demands.
Impressive Technology Integration
Škoda Kushaq The focal point of the Kushaq’s dashboard is the free-standing touchscreen infotainment system that feels good to use and also features integrated smartphone connectivity via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
A user friendly menu gives quick access to navigation, media (A2DP) and user settings. The digital instrument panel displays helpful driving information, allowing you to keep your eye on the road.
Škoda has placed its Simply Clever features all around the interior – practical touches such as smartphone holders behind the front seat backrests, ticket holders in the A-pillars, as well as handy storage compartments make the interior more user-friendly. There’s a wireless charging pad, plus USB-C out the wazoo thanks to several ports.
The climate control is functionally adjustable by buttons and the touchscreen, a balance between digital integration and practical use. Especially in scorching Indian summers the ventilated front seats really come in handy.
The Confidence to Perform
The Kushaq comes with two turbocharged petrol engine options under the hood – a 1.0-litre TSI that makes 115 hp, along with a more powerful 1.5-litre TSI that churns out 150 hp.
Both engines showcase Škoda’s downsized turbo technology, which focuses on balancing performance and economy.
You can choose between a six-speed manual, six-speed torque converter automatic and a slick seven-speed DSG gearbox, to tailor the driving experience to your liking.
The engines offer good mid-range torque, which translates into easy cruising around town and enough power for passing on the freeway.
The suspension walks that fine line between ride comfort and handling precision. The Kushaq does a good job of soaking up road imperfections and holds itself well around corners, instilling confidence in the driver.
Electrically assisted steering feels properly weighted at different speeds, and a small turning circle makes the line for parking around the city more straightforward.
Peace of Mind with Safety Features
Safety is where Škoda clearly didn’t cut corners, with as many as six airbags, electronic stability control, multi-collision braking and hill-hold control being standard fit on higher-spec versions of the Kushaq.
Everyday safety is stepped up with the ISOFIX child seat anchors, rear parking sensors and reversing camera.
The vehicle’s skeleton comprises high-strength steel at key locations for efficient absorption and transfer of crash energy.
Active safety measures like electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist ensure immediate braking on vehicles.
Value Proposition That Is Sensible
Though the Kushaq challenges in what is a very competitive segment offering rivals from several makers. Skoda has placed it well wit a fetching price to feature ratio in various trims.
All of those warranty, service plans paint a picture of how confident the manufacturer is about their product and alleviate concerns of expensive maintenance cost.
The build quality of the vehicle is typical of European engineering with narrow panel gaps, solid door closing feel and materials that will last. These benefits add to a perception of value over time rather than just considering the purchase price.
Škoda Kushaq Conclusion: The One to Beat
The ŠKODA KUSHAQ is a product that has been designed in a very deliberate way and it perfectly catered to what the Indian customer is looking for, without negating the European DNA we have.
It’s an excellent execution of unique style, useable functionality on the inside, sporty driving dynamics and years-ahead-of-its-time tech that ought to put it on every SUV shopper’s short list.
The Kushaq will do duty for the brand as it widens its reach with more dealers and service setups across India. In a segment that’s becoming too difficult to tell apart, the Kushaq tries to stand out, not based on specs alone, but on character.
– With the Kushaq, Škoda shows that it knows what Indian buyers are looking for in a contemporary SUV; more than mere mobility, they want an ownership experience that provides pride, practicality and pleasure in equal measures.
