Skoda commences production of the Kushaq ahead of June 2021 launch

Skoda has begun production of its long-awaited mid-size SUV, the Kushaq, at its plant in Chakan, on the outskirts of Pune. The Kushaq is the first of three products to be launched in India based on the MQB-A0-IN platform, which is essentially the MQB-A0 platform that has been heavily localised for the Indian market. The Kushaq holds a lot of significance for Skoda in India, as it will mark the brand’s debut in the mid-size SUV segment and will be the first product to be spawned from the VW group’s India 2.0 project.

The Kushaq will be available with a three-cylinder 1-litre TSI engine, and a four-cylinder, 1.5-litre TSI engine. Both engines will be available with a 6-speed manual as standard, while the 1-litre will get the option of a 6-speed torque converter automatic, and the 1.5-litre unit will get the option of a seven-speed DSG automatic. The Kushaq, however, won’t be offered with a diesel engine. To find out what we initially felt about the Kushaq, read our story of the prototype drive here.

In terms of looks, the Kushaq is instantly recognizable as a Skoda, especially from the front with the wide grille and vertical slats — a Skoda trademark. The SUV will be available in three variants; the base variant is called Active, the mid-spec variant will be called Ambition, and then there’s the top-of-the-line Style. The Active and Ambition variants will come equipped with 16-inch tyres with steel wheels, while the Style will get 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels.

Skoda has left no stone unturned in providing the Kushaq with equipment and safety features. The Kushaq will be available with an enormous list of features such as front and rear parking sensors, rear parking camera, rear AC vents, a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and wireless Skoda SmartLink. Safety kit includes six airbags, ESC and hill-hold assist, among others.

Skoda seem to have their arsenal prepared, with the next-gen Octavia just around the corner, and two more models planned based on the MQB-A0-IN platform. Prices for the Kushaq are expected to be announced after the launch of the Octavia, while deliveries for it are expected to start in July 2021. The Kushaq will be pitted against the Kia Seltos, MG Hector, Tata Harrier, and the Hyundai Creta. Exciting times ahead for mid-size SUV buyers!