The 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift is confirmed to be revealed in India on January 20, 2026, with bookings slated to commence at the same time i.e. from 12:00 PM. It’s a major mid-life update that brings in some significant design changes like the full-width LED DRL bar and illuminated branding, as well as premium cabin upgrades such as Level 2 ADAS and a panoramic sunroof. While the 1.0L and 1.5L TSI engine options remain unchanged, the facelift aims to aggressively regain market share from segment rivals like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.
Quick Facts: Skoda Kushaq Facelift
- Official Unveil Date: January 20, 2026
- Booking Commencement: January 20, 2026 (Expected 12:00 PM)
- Key Design Updates: Connected LED DRLs, illuminated “SKODA” lettering, revised bumpers.
- New Features: Level 2 ADAS suite, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, segment-first rear seat massage function, and rear disc brakes (exclusive to 1.5L TSI variants).
- Engine Options: 1.0L TSI (115hp) and 1.5L TSI (150hp) Petrol.
- Estimated Price: ₹11.00 Lakh – ₹19.50 Lakh (ex-showroom).
- Top Rivals: Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra, Honda Elevate.
What’s New in the 2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift?
The updated Kushaq is a mid-life update for Skoda’s compact SUV based on the MQB-A0-IN architecture. Teaser images reveal changes to the front and rear lighting, with new separated LED daytime running lights (DRLs) joined with a silver trim piece on the front bumper, along with an illuminated ‘SKODA’ wordmark at the back. It’s an effort to modernize the exterior while preserving SUV-like proportions.
Expected Features and Changes
Based on teasers and industry reports, the facelift may include:
- Updated LED headlights and sequential turn indicators (potentially standard across variants)
- Possible panoramic sunroof and enhanced interior comfort features like rear-seat massage function
- Larger or updated infotainment system (potentially 10.25-inch or bigger touchscreen)
- Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) confirmed for MQB-A0-IN platform models in facelifts
- Retained or slightly revised safety features, including existing six airbags and five-star Global NCAP rating potential
- Tactile Climate Controls: Skoda is reportedly moving away from capacitive touch panels, reintroducing physical buttons for the air-conditioning system to improve ease of use and tactile feedback while driving.
The interior is expected to see enhancements in technology and comfort to improve competitiveness in the segment.
Powertrain and Performance
The facelifted Kushaq is likely to retain the current engine lineup:
- 1.0-litre turbo-petrol (three-cylinder, 115 PS power) with 6-speed manual or automatic options
- 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (150 PS): This version will most likely use the 7-speed DSG automatic as standard since fresh reports mentioned that the larger engine also kicked away the 6-speed manual option aside.
- ACT (Active Cylinder Technology): The 1.5L TSI engine will again offer ACT, which deactivates two of the four cylinders at low loads to boost fuel economy—a key selling point in the mid-size class.
- Future Transmission Update: While not expected at tomorrow’s launch, Skoda is reportedly testing a localised 8-speed torque converter automatic for the 1.0L engine to be introduced later in 2026.
Transmission choices and exact variant-wise availability will be detailed during the January 20 reveal.
Pricing and Market Position
The current Kushaq is priced from ₹10.66 lakh to ₹18.49 lakh (ex-showroom). The facelift is likely to begin at around ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom) and could go up to ₹19 lakh for the top-end trims. It rivals the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun and Maruti Grand Vitara in the compact/mid-size SUV segment.
Why It Matters
Kushaq was the first India 2.0 model to be launched by Skoda and made room for the brand in the compact segment of cars. The facelift brings the car in line with changing customer expectations around modern design, advanced safety technology (ADAS) and updated technological features to maintain relevance on the market four years after launch.
For current SUV buyers, the decision to wait for the January 20 reveal is recommended, as the addition of Level 2 ADAS and a panoramic sunroof addresses the only major gaps that previously pushed buyers toward the Hyundai Creta. The updated design is a response to changing customer expectations in terms of contemporary looks and safety.
Skoda’s recent “DDLJ-themed” teaser campaign, set in mustard fields with the tagline “Get ready to fall in love,” indicates that the brand is positioning this update as an emotional “re-launch” to boost sales volumes.
FAQ
Q: When is the Skoda Kushaq facelift launching?
The official unveiling is scheduled for January 20, 2026. Full launch details, including pricing and variants, will be announced then.
Q: What are the main changes in the Skoda Kushaq facelift?
Expected updates include revised LED lighting (connected DRLs), refreshed front/rear design, possible panoramic sunroof, larger infotainment, and Level-2 ADAS in select variants.
Q: Will the engines change in the facelifted Kushaq?
The 1.0-litre (115 PS) and 1.5-litre (150 PS) turbo-petrol engines are expected to continue, with possible transmission refinements.
Q: What is the expected price of the Skoda Kushaq facelift?
The anticipated starting price of this scooter could be approximately ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom) and a maximum estimated price point of around ₹19 lakh for higher-spec trims and equipment.
Q: level 2 ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) for the Kushaq facelift is confirmed?
Skoda has confirmed that the MQB-A0-IN platform based models will get Level-2 ADAS feature with their facelifts.
Q: Will the manual gearbox be discontinued?
Reports suggest the manual may be dropped for the 1.5L TSI engine, but it is expected to remain available for the 1.0L TSI variants.
For the most accurate and updated information, refer to Skoda India’s official announcements following the January 20, 2026, event.
