2021 Skoda Kushaq Subcompact Crossover For India Previewed Ahead Of March Debut

Skoda’s lineup in India currently counts the Rapid, Octavia, Superb, Karoq and Kodiaq, and starting later this year, it will grow to include the Kushaq as well.

The subcompact crossover is based on the MQB-A0-IN platform and features the brand’s new design language, with the easily-recognizable grille that’s flanked by slim headlights, a slightly arched roofline behind the B pillars and a tailgate design that brings it in line with other Skoda SUVs.

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“The launch of our new Skoda Kushaq marks the beginning of a new era for Skoda Auto on the Indian subcontinent. It’s the region where we oversee all Volkswagen Group activities within the scope of the India 2.0 project”, said Skoda CEO Thomas Schafer.

“The Kushaq marks the start of a model offensive consisting of four new mid-size Skoda and Volkswagen models. All of these vehicles will be based on the MQB-A0-IN variant of the modular transverse matrix, which Skoda Auto has specifically adapted to meet the needs of the Indian market. I’m very confident that this model will appeal to our Indian customers.”

With a 2,651 mm (104.4 in) long wheelbase, which is identical to the Kamiq, the Kushaq, which was previewed by last year’s Vision In Concept, offers room for up to five and has “a large boot”, Skoda claims. We’ve yet to see the interior, but it will feature a touchscreen infotainment system mounted in the middle of the dashboard and standard air conditioning, with upper specs getting automatic climate control.

Other gizmos include hill-start assist, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, dusk-sensing headlamps and tire pressure monitoring system, with the latter available as an option, alongside the LED headlights and DRLs (LED taillights and third brake light will be standard).

Powering the Kushaq will be two petrol engines, a 1.0- and a 1.5-liter TSI, coupled to a six-speed manual, six-speed automatic or seven-speed DSG transmission, depending on the trim level, and front-wheel drive.

The vehicle’s premiere will take place in March and it should launch locally shortly after.