Skoda teases the 2026 Kushaq facelift ahead of its January 2026 launch. Expect updated design, premium interior upgrades, ADAS safety tech and the same turbo-petrol engines.
2026 Skoda Kushaq Facelift Teased: What We Know So Far
The 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift has been teased for the first time ahead of its India launch. The updated SUV will bring fresh styling, new features and advanced safety tech.
The 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift has been teased for the first time, confirming that an updated version of the popular midsize SUV is on its way. Skoda Auto India has released a short teaser video showing the SUV covered in camouflage. While the teaser does not reveal many details, it clearly hints that the launch is close. As per current information, the facelifted Kushaq is expected to go on sale on January 19, 2026.
This update is important for Skoda because the Kushaq is one of its best-selling cars in India and plays a key role in the brand’s success.
Why the Kushaq Matters for Skoda
The Skoda Kushaq was launched in 2021 and was specially developed for Indian roads and buyers. It is based on the MQB A0 IN platform and was the first SUV under Skoda’s India 2.0 strategy. Since then, the Kushaq, along with the Slavia sedan and the newer Kylaq, has helped Skoda increase its sales in the country.
In fact, Skoda Auto Volkswagen India recorded its highest-ever domestic sales in 2025, crossing 1.17 lakh units. This shows how important locally made models like the Kushaq are for the company. The facelift is meant to keep the SUV fresh and competitive in a segment that is getting crowded every year.
What the Teaser Shows
The teaser video is short and keeps things secret. The SUV is fully covered, so exact design changes are not visible. However, the shape and stance look familiar, which suggests that Skoda has gone for a refresh rather than a complete redesign.
Over the past few months, the Kushaq facelift has been spotted testing several times on Indian roads. These spy images give us some clues about what to expect.
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Exterior Changes Expected
On the outside, the 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift is likely to receive small but noticeable updates. These may include:
- A slightly revised front grille
- Updated LED headlamps and DRLs
- Redesigned front and rear bumpers
- New alloy wheel designs
- Mild updates to the rear tail lamps
These changes are expected to make the SUV look more modern and premium, without changing its overall identity.
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Interior Updates: More Comfort and Tech
The biggest improvements are expected inside the cabin. Skoda is likely to focus on making the interior feel more premium and feature-rich.
Expected interior updates include:
- A new dashboard layout with better materials
- A larger touchscreen infotainment system
- Updated digital instrument cluster
- New seat upholstery and trim options
- Ventilated front seats
- A 360-degree camera system
These upgrades will help improve comfort and convenience, especially for buyers who use the car daily in city traffic.
ADAS Safety Features Likely
One of the most talked-about updates is the possible addition of Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). This could include features such as:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keep assist
- Autonomous emergency braking
If introduced, these safety features will be a big plus for the Kushaq and will help it compete with newer rivals offering advanced safety tech.
Engine and Gearbox: No Major Changes
Under the hood, the 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift is expected to continue with the same engines:
- 1.0-litre turbo petrol producing 115 PS and 178 Nm
- 1.5-litre TSI turbo petrol producing 150 PS and 250 Nm
These engines are already well-known for their strong performance and good fuel efficiency.
Transmission options are also expected to remain the same:
- 6-speed manual
- 6-speed automatic (with the 1.0L engine)
- 7-speed DSG automatic (with the 1.5L engine)
There are rumours about an 8-speed automatic, but nothing has been confirmed yet.
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What’s Next for Skoda
The Kushaq facelift is expected to be the first of several updates from Skoda Auto Volkswagen India. Similar mid-life updates are likely for the Slavia, and later for Volkswagen’s Taigun and Virtus as well. Many of the interior and safety upgrades seen in the Kushaq could be shared across these models.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Skoda Kushaq facelift may not look completely new, but it focuses on what matters most today—better interiors, more features, and improved safety. With a refreshed design, added technology, and proven engines, the updated Kushaq aims to stay relevant in a highly competitive segment.
With the launch expected in January 2026, more official details should be revealed soon. Until then, the teaser has already created excitement among buyers waiting for a more advanced and polished Kushaq.