Skoda Auto today unveiled it’s first compact SUV Kushaq. The new Skoda Kushaq is based on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB-A0-IN platform. As part of the INDIA 2.0 product campaign, it is the first of four models from the Skoda and Volkswagen brands to be manufactured locally in India. Skoda Kushaq will be launched in a total of three variants namely Active, Ambition and the range-topping Style. The new Skoda Kushaq is expected to be priced between Rs 10-18 lakh.
1. MQB-A0-IN platform
Skoda Kushaq is the first production car based on the India-specific MQB-A0-IN platform – an MQB variant specially adapted by Skoda Auto for India that will also be used for other Volkswagen Group models on the Indian market. With 95 percent localisation, the MQB-A0-IN platform has been specifically adapted to meet the needs of the Indian market.
2. Longer wheelbase
With the launch of the Skoda Kushaq, Skoda Auto is entering the subcontinent’s rapidly growing mid size SUV segment for the first time, and is now offering a third SUV in India alongside the Kodiaq and Karoq. The new Skoda Kushaq is based on the MQB-A0-IN platform, has wheelbase of 2,651 mm which is 41mm longer than its rival – Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. Skoda claims that the Kushaq will offer plenty of space for five occupants and a large boot.
3. LED headlights
Depending on the trim level, the Skoda Kushaq features LED headlights and LED daytime running lights as standard. The tail and brake lights are also fitted with striking and instantaneously responsive LEDs. The indicators come with classic bulbs, as do the fog lights in the lower section. This is where the daytime running lights are located on the entry-level Active variant, which is equipped with halogen lights. Together with the reflectors in the bumper, the rear lights features the Skoda’s typical C-shaped crystalline structures. Tail and brake lights are fitted with efficient and instantaneously responsive LEDs, the tail lights offered with the Style trim level features a classic light bulbs and an additional LED module.
4. Two spoke steering wheel
The new Skoda Kushaq comes with a two-spoke multifunction steering wheel as standard. From Ambition upwards, the multifunctional steering wheel is upholstered in leather, and variants with automatic transmission or DSG also feature shift paddles.
5. Free standing infotainment system
The interior of the Skoda Kushaq is dominated by a central, 10-inch free-standing touchscreen infotainment system. This system also features a dual tuner, a Wi-Fi hotspot and an external microphone for hands-free phone calls. There are two USB-C ports in the centre console for connecting and charging mobile devices via cable. The Style variant can also be equipped with a Phone Box in the front which allows smartphones to be charged inductively. In addition to MP3 and WMA, this system can also play AAC and FLAC media files.
6. Ventilated seats
The range-topping trim, Style, comes with features like ventilated leather front seats, Kessy keyless entry, an electric sliding glass roof and an auto-dimming rear‑view mirror. The side bolsters of the ventilated front seats, which come as standard, are finished in a leather look, as are the covers of the centre armrest and the armrests in the doors.
7. 1.5-litre TSI engine
The all-new Skoda Kushaq will be available with two TSI petrol engines: a 1.0- or 1.5 litre TSI, both of which are coupled with front-wheel drive. The depending on the variants, the front-wheel drive Skoda Kushaq will be available with a 6-speed manual gearbox, a 6-speed automatic transmission or a 7-speed DSG. The top of the range variant will be powered by a 150 PS, 1.5 TSI engine which is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, same as with the 1.0 TSI. The 1.5 TSI petrol engine can also be configured with a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission.
8. Six airbags
The Skoda Kushaq will offer active and passive safety as well as numerous assistance systems. Occupants are protected by up to six airbags – for the driver and front passenger as standard, and optional front side airbags and curtain airbags. The ISOFIX and top-tether anchor points on the rear seats to fit child seats come as standard. Other safety features of the Skoda Kushaq includes – three-point seat belts, ESC (Electronic Stability Control). Hill-Hold Control, automatic headlamps, automatic rain-sensing wipers, tyre pressure monitor and a cruise control system.
9. High performance speakers
The Skoda Kushaq comes with six high-performance speakers as standard – two separate tweeters and bass speakers in the front and two two-way speakers in the rear. The Skoda sound system is part of the standard equipment in the Style variant. In addition to higher-performance speakers, it also offers a separate amplifier and a subwoofer that is located in the spare-wheel well.
10. Ambient lighting
The entry-level variants of the Skoda Kushaq features white ambient lighting and LED reading lights in the front and rear. From the Ambition trim level upwards, the ambient lighting also illuminates the dashboard and door handles, while the door handles are chrome-plated and the gearstick knob is upholstered in leather. The Style trim is particularly elegant. It offers an extended chrome package with decorative chrome trim on the instrument panel as well as the gearstick surround and the handbrake locking button also sports a chrome finish.