Skoda Kushaq 2025 Review – India’s Safest Turbo SUV with Style, Power, and Practicality

The Skoda Kushaq is one of the most popular midsize SUVs in India. It is built on the India-specific MQB-A0-IN platform and comes with powerful turbo-petrol engines. The Kushaq has become known for its solid build, European design, fun-to-drive nature, and most importantly, its 5-star safety rating.

In 2025, Skoda is celebrating 25 years in India and has launched new limited editions of the Kushaq with cosmetic changes and added features. It continues to take on rivals like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Volkswagen Taigun, MG Astor, and Maruti Grand Vitara. Let’s dive into a detailed review of the Skoda Kushaq 2025 for Indian buyers.


Quick Specs – Skoda Kushaq 2025

FeatureDetails
SegmentMidsize SUV (5-seater)
Engines1.0 TSI (115 PS, 178 Nm), 1.5 TSI (150 PS, 250 Nm)
Gearboxes6-MT, 6-AT, 7-DSG
Mileage18–19.7 km/l (ARAI claimed)
Length4,225 mm
Wheelbase2,651 mm
Ground Clearance188 mm
Boot Space385 litres
Fuel Tank50 litres
Safety5-star Global NCAP, 6 airbags, ESC, ISOFIX
Price (Ex-showroom)₹10.99–19.09 lakh

Fresh Updates in 2025

Skoda has introduced special anniversary and limited editions of the Kushaq. These editions get unique styling, new alloy designs, badging, and additional features. They are offered with both 1.0 TSI and 1.5 TSI engines, with options for manual and automatic gearboxes.

A bigger facelift version is also being tested and expected to arrive later, but for now, the Kushaq continues to remain competitive thanks to these new updates.


Exterior Design and Road Presence

The Skoda Kushaq looks stylish yet practical. The wide grille, flat bonnet, and sharp LED headlights give it a premium appeal. The LED DRLs and sporty alloys add to its road presence.

It has clean, European-inspired lines that feel timeless. The build quality is solid, and the paint finish looks premium. Thanks to compact dimensions, the Kushaq feels easy to drive in city traffic and to park in tight spaces.

Dimensions:

  • Length – 4,225 mm
  • Width – 1,760 mm
  • Wheelbase – 2,651 mm
  • Ground clearance – 188 mm
  • Boot space – 385 litres

This balance of compact size with SUV stance makes it practical for Indian roads.


Interior and Cabin Comfort

Step inside and you are greeted with a premium, driver-focused cabin. The seats are well-cushioned and offer good support for long drives. The driving position feels commanding. The steering is adjustable for both reach and rake, making it easy to find a comfortable posture.

At the rear, space is good for two adults and a child. The 2,651 mm wheelbase provides decent legroom. Headroom is adequate, though three adults at the back may feel a little tight. The 385-litre boot is practical enough for weekend trips and airport luggage.

The overall fit and finish feels European, with robust switchgear and premium touches.

Also Read Honda City 2025 Review – Premium Sedan with Space, Comfort, Mileage and ADAS


Features and Technology

The Skoda Kushaq packs modern features, though not overloaded like some rivals. Key highlights include:

  • 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
  • Ventilated front seats (on higher trims)
  • Single-pane sunroof
  • Auto climate control with touch panel
  • Wireless charger
  • Rear AC vents
  • Cruise control
  • Auto headlamps and rain-sensing wipers
  • Up to 8-speaker sound system with subwoofer in top trims

The new limited editions also bring fresh alloy wheel designs, cosmetic changes, and extra feature packs depending on the variant.


Safety – The Biggest Strength

Safety is one of the biggest selling points of the Skoda Kushaq. It has achieved a 5-star Global NCAP rating for both adult and child occupants under the latest, stricter test protocols.

Safety equipment includes:

  • Up to 6 airbags
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  • Hill-hold control
  • Multi-collision braking
  • Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
  • ISOFIX child seat mounts
  • A strong body shell

This makes the Kushaq one of the safest SUVs in India.


Engine, Gearbox, and Mileage

The Kushaq offers two powerful turbo-petrol engine choices:

1.0 TSI

  • Power: 115 PS
  • Torque: 178 Nm
  • Gearbox: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic (torque converter)
  • Mileage: Around 18 km/l (ARAI claimed)

This engine is smooth, efficient, and perfect for city use as well as relaxed highway drives.

1.5 TSI (with Cylinder Deactivation Technology)

  • Power: 150 PS
  • Torque: 250 Nm
  • Gearbox: 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG automatic
  • Mileage: Around 18–19 km/l (ARAI claimed)

This is the enthusiast’s choice. It offers strong acceleration, effortless highway cruising, and the DSG gearbox makes it a joy to drive.

Real-world fuel economy depends on traffic and driving style. Expect 11–13 km/l in city traffic and 15–18 km/l on highways.


Ride and Handling

The Skoda Kushaq is one of the best SUVs to drive in its segment. The suspension feels firm at low speeds but gets very stable at higher speeds. It remains flat in corners and feels confident even at triple-digit speeds on highways.

The steering is light in the city and precise on highways, making it enjoyable for both daily commutes and long drives. Braking performance is strong and predictable.


Variants and Price in India

The Skoda Kushaq is offered in multiple trims like Active, Ambition, Onyx, Style, Monte Carlo, and limited editions.

Price range (ex-showroom, India): ₹10.99 lakh – ₹19.09 lakh
This places it in the same range as Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.


Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • 5-star Global NCAP safety rating
  • Powerful turbo-petrol engines
  • Strong highway stability and handling
  • Premium European build quality
  • Compact yet practical size

Cons:

  • Rear seat best for two adults
  • Some rivals offer more features
  • DSG gearbox needs care in bumper-to-bumper traffic

FAQs on Skoda Kushaq

Q1. Is the Skoda Kushaq safe?

Yes, it has a 5-star safety rating for both adult and child occupants.

Q2. What is the mileage of the Kushaq?

Around 18–19.7 km/l (ARAI), though real-world figures are lower.

Q3. Which engine is best – 1.0 TSI or 1.5 TSI?

The 1.0 TSI is good for daily use and economy. The 1.5 TSI is better for performance and highway driving.

Q4. What is the price of Skoda Kushaq in 2025?

It ranges between ₹10.99 lakh – ₹19.09 lakh (ex-showroom, India).

Q5. Who are its main competitors?

Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Volkswagen Taigun, Maruti Grand Vitara, and MG Astor.


Final Verdict – Should You Buy the Skoda Kushaq in 2025?

The Skoda Kushaq 2025 is one of the most well-rounded SUVs in its segment. It offers European styling, turbocharged performance, 5-star safety, and premium quality. The 1.0 TSI is ideal for city buyers, while the 1.5 TSI with DSG is a delight for enthusiasts.

While rivals like Creta and Seltos pack more features, the Kushaq stands out with driving pleasure and top-notch safety. If you want a safe, stylish, and fun-to-drive SUV for Indian roads, the Skoda Kushaq remains one of the best picks in 2025.

Author- Ayush

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