Skoda Kushaq – India Review 2025, Stylish, Safer & Now More Affordable

The Skoda Kushaq has been one of the most important cars for Skoda India since its launch. Positioned in the hotly contested mid-size SUV segment against giants like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, and Honda Elevate, it has built a strong reputation for European build quality, refined TSI engines, and top-notch safety.

Now in 2025, the Kushaq is even more attractive thanks to two big updates – the recent GST cut (September 2025) that has reduced its price by up to ₹65,828 and the launch of the Monte Carlo Limited Edition (August 2025), bringing a sportier flavour to the lineup. Add to that its 5-star Global NCAP rating, strong feature list, and two peppy turbo-petrol engines, and the Kushaq continues to be one of the safest and most premium choices for Indian families.

Let’s dive into the details to see if the 2025 Skoda Kushaq still has what it takes to stand tall in this cut-throat SUV segment.

Engine, Mileage & Performance

Skoda offers the Kushaq with two petrol engines, no diesel option:

• 1.0-litre TSI (114 bhp, 178 Nm) – Available with 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque converter AT. This motor is surprisingly punchy for city use, smooth on highways, and delivers an ARAI-rated mileage of 18–20 kmpl depending on gearbox. Real-world figures hover around 14–16 kmpl in mixed use.
• 1.5-litre TSI (148 bhp, 250 Nm) – Paired with either a 6-speed manual or the famous 7-speed DSG automatic. It’s the enthusiast’s choice, with strong mid-range punch and smooth high-speed cruising. Despite performance, it manages 18.86 kmpl ARAI mileage thanks to cylinder deactivation tech.

On Indian roads, the Kushaq feels planted and solid – a true European SUV. The steering is direct, ride quality is mature at high speeds, and ground clearance is sufficient for rough patches. However, the low-speed ride can feel a bit firm compared to the Creta or Seltos, and Skoda still doesn’t offer drive modes, which rivals like the Hyundai Creta provide.

Design & Features

The Kushaq may not be the flashiest SUV, but it oozes European sophistication with sharp crystalline LED headlamps, muscular bonnet lines, and neatly sculpted bodywork. The Monte Carlo and Anniversary Editions add sporty red accents and contrasting black roofs for buyers who prefer a bolder look.

Inside, Skoda has ensured a premium ambience with chrome touches, piano-black trims, ventilated leather seats, and an easy-to-read 10-inch infotainment system (wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay). The two-spoke steering with scroll wheels feels modern, while higher trims offer an all-digital ‘Virtual Cockpit’ cluster.

Practicality-wise, the Kushaq’s wheelbase is longer than the Creta, giving it excellent rear legroom. However, the rear middle seat is not very comfortable for three adults, and the boot, though tall, isn’t the biggest in class. Still, features like a sunroof, wireless charging, ambient lighting, and Skoda ConnectED connected car tech make it feel well-rounded.

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Safety & Technology

If there’s one area where the Kushaq really shines, it’s safety.

• Awarded 5 stars in Global NCAP crash tests – among the safest cars in India.
• Standard 6 airbags, ESC, traction control, hill-hold, and tyre pressure monitoring.
• Structural integrity is rock-solid, giving buyers confidence for family use.
• Negatives? Skoda still hasn’t introduced ADAS features, which rivals like the MG Astor and Hyundai Creta facelift are offering.

On the tech side, the Kushaq packs in:

• 10-inch infotainment with Skoda App Store
• Premium sound system
• Digital cockpit (depending on trim)
• Rear-view camera with guidelines
• Wireless phone mirroring + multiple USB-C ports

Colours & Variants

The 2025 Kushaq is offered in a wide palette, including Tornado Red, Candy White, Carbon Steel, Brilliant Silver, Lava Blue, Deep Black, and dual-tone options with contrasting black roofs.

Variants include Classic, Onyx, Signature, Sportline, Anniversary, Monte Carlo, Prestige, and special editions. Prices range between ₹12.37 lakh and ₹21.44 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5-star Global NCAP rating – one of the safest SUVs in India.
• Solid European build with premium fit and finish.
• Punchy turbo-petrol engines, especially the 1.5 TSI DSG.
• Spacious rear legroom thanks to long wheelbase.
• Fresh price cut improves value for money.

Cons

• No diesel option (competitors still offer).
• Firm low-speed ride, not as plush as Creta/Seltos.
• Rear middle seat not comfortable for 3 adults.
• No ADAS features, rivals are catching up.
• Boot space could have been more practical.

Price & Rivals

The Skoda Kushaq now starts from ₹12.37 lakh and goes up to ₹21.44 lakh for the top-end Monte Carlo 1.5 DSG.

Key Rivals in India:

• Hyundai Creta (₹12.57 lakh onwards) – more features, diesel option.
• Kia Seltos (₹12.58 lakh onwards) – stylish, IMT gearbox, but only 3-star safety.
• Volkswagen Taigun (₹13.26 lakh onwards) – sibling with similar underpinnings.
• Honda Elevate (₹12.88 lakh onwards) – spacious but less powerful.
• Toyota Hyryder / Maruti Victoris (₹12.3 lakh onwards) – hybrid efficiency champs.

Compared to these, the Kushaq scores high on safety, driving dynamics, and premium feel, but loses out on features like ADAS and diesel fuel choice.

Final Verdict

The 2025 Skoda Kushaq remains a stylish, safe, and premium choice in the mid-size SUV space. With the recent GST price cut and Monte Carlo Limited Edition, Skoda has sweetened the deal further.

If you want a solidly built, fun-to-drive SUV with strong safety credentials, the Kushaq deserves to be at the top of your shortlist. However, if you prioritise plush ride comfort, ADAS features, or diesel economy, rivals like the Creta, Hyryder, or Victoris might suit you better.

Still, for enthusiasts and families looking for peace of mind, the Kushaq continues to deliver graceful journeys with European flair.

Frequently Ask Questions