Skoda Auto India has launched the Kushaq mid-size SUV in the country. The model is based on the MQB-A0-IN platform that also underpins the Volkswagen Taigun.

The 2021 Skoda Kushaq is available in five colours that include Tornado Red, Honey Orange, Candy White, Carbon Steel, and Reflex Silver. Customers can choose from two engine options across three variants including Active, Ambition, and Style. Also on offer is a Monte Carlo variant.

Powertrain options on the new Skoda Kushaq will include a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder TSI petrol engine producing 113bhp and 178Nm of torque, as well as a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, TSI petrol engine producing 148bhp and 250Nm of torque. A six-speed manual unit is standard while the 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre versions get a six-speed automatic unit and a seven-speed DSG automatic unit as an option, respectively.

Exterior highlights of the Skoda Kushaq include the signature butterfly grille with black vertical slats and chrome surround, LED headlamps with integrated L-shaped LED DRLs, fog lights, silver skid plates and roof rails, 17-inch alloy wheels, LED tail lights, shark-fin antenna, rear washer and wiper, as well as an integrated spoiler. 

Inside, the Skoda Kushaq receives features such as an electric sunroof, a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink; a two-spoke steering wheel, wireless charging, ambient lighting, ventilated front seats, cruise control, and a cooled glove-box. The model is equipped with safety features that include six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, multi-collision braking, roll-over protection, brake disc wiping, hill hold control, and TPMS. 

In terms of exterior design, the 2022 Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo variant gets blacked-out elements such as the grille, skid plates, ORVMs, roof rails, roof, as well as the Kushaq and Skoda lettering. A few other notable changes include a new set of alloy wheels and the Monte Carlo badging on the front fenders. Inside, the variant comes equipped with a dual-tone black and red theme, with red inserts for the dashboard, centre console, door pads, and red upholstery for the seats. Also on offer is a fully-digital instrument console.